Sensory Perfection
Lynn Houghton discovers glitz, glamour and faultless service at the stunning new Bulgari Spa in London’s Knightsbridge.
It might have been the green onyx walls in the couple’s spa suite that took a year to install, or the sublime music in the relaxation room. Or the therapist who took the time to make sure I was completely comfortable during my treatment, the excellent products range, the luxury shower facilities or the ice fountain suite. All I know is that there is more than meets the eye at the new Bulgari spa in Knightsbridge and it is this attention to detail that makes this spa stand out from the rest.
Arranged over two levels and measuring 2000 square metres, the Bulgari Spa is one of the largest and most exclusive urban retreats in the city centre. Encompassing 11 individual treatment rooms, a private spa suite for two and a 25-metre swimming pool, the spa inspires escapism from the busy world of Knightsbridge. Treatments and products are by ESPA, a British brand made from natural, high quality ingredients.
The décor is modern and sleek, all granite and hard surfaces; no rushing waterfalls or Asian Buddhist décor elements – just an infusion of style and calm, from the colour co-ordinated soft charcoal furnishings and towels down to the soft cosy blankets to cover up with on the low slung futons in the relaxation room. Here (and in the changing room), a selection of healthy treats (almonds, apples and citrus infused drinking water) is available.
A treatment at a top class spa is often about the therapist, with everything else an added bonus. Service is what ‘separates the men from the boys’ at this end of the market. The therapist for my Body Radiance treatment was welcoming, gracious and thorough, paying exceptional attention to detail and making the entire 90 minutes a relaxing yet invigorating journey.
I was given a tub of water for a quick foot soak as we talked through my Body Radiance experience and addressed any skin problems or allergies I might be concerned about. It was a great way to get in the mood. The treatment comprised a full body massage followed by a clay masque for the entire body. A scalp massage was also included though I skipped the oils, as I did not want to have to wash my hair afterwards. I was then wrapped top to toe in foil and left to ‘bake’ for about 15 minutes before showering off. This treatment is a pricey £165 for 90 minutes but for this level of quality, worth the price.
The shiny new spa could impress on glitz alone but has much more to offer and a tour of the premises is a must to appreciate the full extent of the facilities. Outstanding features include the beautiful swimming pool with gold effect coins along the bottom that create a shimmering affect, and the balmy gold leaf tiled Vitality Pool, which is chlorine-free and looks terribly inviting!
The Bulgari Spa is also home to Bodyism, a fitness system used by executives, celebrities and royalty to achieve a long, lean, athletic body. The spa offers the Bodyism Clean and Lean Retreat – a bespoke health and fitness programme overseen by the spa’s personal trainers in residence. The Bodyism team, under the guidance of celebrity personal trainer, James Duigan, encourages guests to live a leaner, stronger and more energised lifestyle through tailor-made programmes exclusively created for each guest’s specific needs. These combine nutritional analysis and supplementation with personalised treatments and world-class personal training.
An initial Body Oracle assessment sets the blueprint for a personalised programme designed to promote better health, increased energy and serenity. Unlimited training sessions, including yoga, Pilates, swimming and stretching are prescribed in order to achieve the best results, with spa treatments aimed at complementing and supporting fitness goals.
‘Clean and Lean’ dining options, chosen by Bodyism, can be found on the hotel’s Il Ristorante’s menu and for those who are in residence during their retreat, the contents of the minibar are given an overhaul to ensure that the snacks and drinks are in line with the Bodyism ‘clean and lean’ philosophy. A member of the Bodyism team is on call around the clock to answer questions and to provide motivational support when required.
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The Bulgari Hotel and Residences 171 Knightsbridge London SW7 1DW Tel: 0207 151 1010 www.bulgarihotels.com90-minute ESPA Body Radiance Treatment £165 The Bodyism Clean and Lean Retreat at the Bulgari Hotel & Residences, London is available to non-members and can be booked as a one-day, seven-day, 14-day or one-month programme with the option to stay at the hotel throughout. Prices start at £380 for the one-day Clean and Lean Retreat that lasts for three hours and includes a Bodyism coaching session and a choice of Body Toner Ritual, Energy Boosting Ritual or Detox Ritual. The Bulgari Spa is open from 6.30am – 9pm (Mon/Fri) and 7.30am – 8pm (weekends) Treatments times from 8am – 8pm (Mon/Fri) and 9am -7pm (weekends) Tel: + 44 (0) 207 151 1055 Email: london-spa@bulgarihotels.com
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