Relax Mode:On

An indulgent session from head to toe is what Kirsty Walker experiences at The Spa, at Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

Peace, purity, and pampering sum up my afternoon in The Spa at Sharq Village. If you’ve never visited, the place is modelled on a traditional Qatari village and steeped in modern luxury. After seven years in Doha, this is my first time stepping foot inside, and I’m excited in anticipation. Entering the spa through the wooden doorframe, you see large clay pots in each corner, beautiful copper plates on the walls and many traditional fabrics. The spa reception contains an expansive central feature, filled with smooth pebbles and crystal-clear water.

Look up, and you’ll see a ceiling designed around mangrove beams supported by wooden colonnades around the water, under a wide, open skylight. It feels peaceful, with natural materials and warm colours. The reception staff greet me warmly, and show me to a changing area of all dark wood, tall beams and straw baskets.

Ningnong, my therapist, meets me once I’m gowned and slippered, and introduces herself with a smile. She guides me through the spa, passing the beautiful sauna and steam room, and the sun-dappled relaxation area facing the outdoor pool. We step outside and reach my therapy room through attractive little open-air courtyards and corridors.