The Sacred River Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan has embarked on a new chapter after receiving a major renovation and expansion project.
The riverside retreat, in Ubud, Indonesia, has been relaunched with enhanced facilities, brand-new amenities and an elevated treatment offering.
Nestled amid rich tropical jungle foliage, the 4,970sq m facility has been refreshed with a concept inspired by the ancient Balinese philosophy of Niskala – meaning unseen energy – with a special focus on Bali's cultural reverence for water.
“This project has been an incredible journey, reconnecting with the Ayung River’s powerful energies and integrating ancient wisdom into the spa's architecture, treatments
and spiritual practices,” says Luisa Anderson, regional director of spa for Four Seasons in Asia Pacific.
“By blending these traditions with state-of-the-art wellness innovations, the Sacred River Spa embodies a new era of holistic care.”
The Sacred River Spa embodies a new era of holistic care
Luisa Anderson
Accor's Emlyn Brown talks trends
■ The Fulcrum Agency, SPIN and Bukit Kembar Permai delivered the design
spa business people
Anne Dimon announces Antigua & Barbuda as the WTA's first Wellness Destination
Antigua & Barbuda has been recognised as the first location globally to earn the ‘Wellness Destination’ designation from the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA).
The WTA defines a Wellness Destination as “a geographical area that fosters and promotes wellness as an integral part of life within the community and the region’s economy.”
The title was awarded after Antigua & Barbuda successfully met the WTA’s nine-point Wellness Destination checklist, developed in 2019, to evaluate locations aspiring to become hubs for wellness tourism. The criteria is designed to ensure that wellness is deeply integrated into the community and
Third Space Richmond provides a space for people to unwind and escape from the rush of central London
Colin Waggett
It’s crucial that travellers understand the offerings available at each destination
Anne Dimon
local economy, prioritising both physical and mental wellbeing.
The WTA hopes that by recognising locations such as Antigua & Barbuda, more regions will be encouraged to adopt similar wellness practices, further shaping the future of wellness travel.
Anne Dimon, WTA president and CEO, said: “As wellness tourism continues to grow, it’s crucial that travellers understand the experiences and offerings available at each destination. Our check-list provides a foundation for any region that aspires to be recognised as a true Wellness Destination, ensuring both visitors and locals benefit from the experience.”
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/D5d4j_B
Colin
Waggett unveils new Third Space in Richmond, London
Luxury London health and wellness club operator, Third Space, has launched its 13th club – and fourth this year – at Richmond Upon Thames.
This tops off an exciting year, following the launch of new clubs in Wood Wharf, Battersea and Clapham Junction. The growth will continue into 2025, with further openings planned.
Colin Waggett, CEO of Third Space says: “The opening of Third Space Richmond is a significant achievement and is a part of
our ambition of bringing world class fitness to all Londoners, both at home and in the city.
“Third Space Richmond provides a space for people to work out, unwind and escape from the rush of central London if they wish.
“Our goal is to go beyond physical fitness, providing services and facilities to support members across the full spectrum of health, from nutrition, to mindfulness, wellness and recovery.”
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/V5e7t_B
I’m excited to be working with a very culturally diverse team
Robert Jeffers
Robert Jeffers joins Atlantis The Palm
Robert Jeffers has assumed the role of wellness director at Atlantis The Palm, the iconic luxury beachfront resort in Dubai, UAE.
In this position, Jeffers leads a team of 70, overseeing the resort’s expansive spa, salon and fitness facilities, as well as its comprehensive wellness services across the property.
He has stepped into this role following a two-and-a-halfyear tenure as director of wellbeing at the award-winning Guerlain Spa at Raffles London at The OWO.
Speaking exclusively to Spa Business, Jeffers said: “I’m thrilled to join the team at Atlantis The Palm. As Dubai’s most iconic hotel, the resort boasts a worldwide legacy for creating extraordinary experiences for discerning travellers and I look forward to leading the resort’s talented spa and fitness teams. I’m excited to be working with a very culturally diverse team where individuals bring their unique perspectives and experience to the business.”
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/w4Z9q_B
People
Anne Dimon announces Antigua & Barbuda as Wellness Tourism Association's first official ‘Wellness Destination’
Trends
Truth over hype: future of wellness will blend tech, trust and transparency says Emlyn Brown
Growing footprint
Rosewood and Yntegra Group codeveloping private island retreat and Asaya spa in the Bahamas
SPA BUSINESS INSIGHTS
Urban wellness
Corinthia Brussels debuts with luxury Sisley spa in restored Belle Époque landmark
Rustic retreat
Slow wellness, Californian botanicals and rustic elegance inspire Auberge Resorts’ new Lavender Barn spa
Supplier innovation
The latest in products and innovation from Aromatherapy Associates, Larose Guyon, We Work Well, Essence and Florence Roby
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"Truth over hype for wellness in
In 2025, wellness will shift from fleeting fads to science-driven authenticity, predicts Emlyn Brown, Accor’s global SVP of wellbeing, strategy, design and development, as he identifies eight trends set to redefine the wellness industry in the year ahead.
"Wellness in 2025 will go beyond fleeting trends, grounding itself in science and authenticity,” Brown said.
“As consumers increasingly prioritise truth over hype, the future of health will be defined by a blend of technology, trust and
DESIGN
Cheval Blanc's Guerlain spa in St. Barths
2025"
transparency. The path to genuine wellbeing is clear: informed choices, sustainable habits and a holistic focus on the whole self.”
Spa Business has summarised Brown’s top trends at the link below.
Wellness in 2025 will go beyond fleeting trends Emlyn Brown MORE >>> http://lei.sr/B2K9k_B
This December, Guerlain’s spa at Cheval Blanc St-Barth has celebrated its 10th anniversary and unveiled the results of a comprehensive design refresh.
Nestled in the 61-key resort’s tropical gardens, the spa features five treatment rooms – including a VIP double suite, an outdoor relaxation pavilion and a tropical terrace. The facility has been completely reimagined by Guerlain with the input of renowned architect Isabelle Stanislas.
Guerlain’s signature sandy beige and golden tones, complemented by soft white walls adorned with exotic wood.
Natural materials including bleached larch, brass and raffia further enhance the spa's design, chosen to seamlessly connect the interior with the surrounding environment.
The refreshed interiors draw inspiration from the vibrant Caribbean islands, showcasing
In honour of the relaunch, Guerlain has also developed a selection of exclusive new signature treatments.
■ The spa has received a comprehensive refresh
Asaya spa concept heads to Bahamas
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts has partnered with Miami-based private investment company Yntegra Group to realise a brand new private island resort on Exuma, an archipelago of 365 islands in the Bahamas.
Launching in 2028, Rosewood Exuma will be situated on a 124acre private island referred to as East Sampson Cay. The tropical retreat will feature 33 beachfront suites and a signature Rosewood Asaya spa designed to immerse guests in Bahamian wellness traditions. Featuring six treatment
FITNESS
Wellhub expands European presence
Corporate wellness platform, Wellhub, has acquired Fitprime, a key player in the Italian corporate wellness market.
This creates Italy’s largest network of more than 4,300 fitness and wellness partners. Fitprime enables more than 200 corporate clients to offer health benefits to more than 400k subscribers.
“We're delighted to welcome Fitprime to the Wellhub team,” says Cesar Carvalho, co-founder and CEO of Wellhub. “This union represents a significant expansion of our presence in Europe and strengthens our commitment to
rooms, the 20,000sq ft spa will be home to a hydrotherapy facility, an outdoor pool and a gym.
Rosewood currently has a further 14 Asaya projects in the pipeline.
MORE >>> http://lei.sr/h6R6c_B
providing the best wellbeing plans to companies around the world.
“Fitprime’s impressive network and expertise in the Italian market will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate on behalf of our corporate clients, their employees and our wellness partners.”
Co-founder and CEO of Fitprime, Matteo Musa, says: “Joining forces with Wellhub is a perfect opportunity for Fitprime to accelerate growth and expand its impact.”
>>> http://lei.sr/D3A4Z_B
■ Yoga is Wellhub's fastest growing modality
■ Rosewood is developing 15 Asaya spas
spa business insights
Fabulous urban wellness
Corinthia has lifted the curtain on its new five-star luxury urban escape in Brussels, complete with a Sisley spa
This project isn’t just about restoring a hotel –it’s about redefining what luxury hospitality can be
Corinthia Hotels has announced the opening of its newest urban property, Corinthia Brussels, in the historic centre of the Belgian capital. Housed in a meticulously restored 100-year-old Belle Époque landmark, the hotel has a significant wellness o ering, anchored by a 1,200sq m subterranean spa.
The Sisley-branded urban wellness facility is home to seven private treatment rooms and is defined by elegant yet understated marble interiors complemented with gold accents
Facilities include a hammam, a sauna, experience showers, a tea room and a fitness centre with personal training services provided by former British Army physical training instructor Paul Tucker.
Guests are also able to purchase a selection of Sisley products in the spa’s retail space.
Continuing partnership
The destination represents Corinthia's second global spa collaboration with Sisley, following the launch of The Surrey Spa at The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, which opened in New York in October
The new Brussels spa was added during the hotel’s four-year restoration, which included excavating a new floor beneath the historic building.
■ The spa represents Corinthia's second global spa collaboration with Sisley
CORINTHIA HOTELS
We look forward to welcoming guests to discover a space where heritage and innovation meet
Corinthia Hotels, a globally recognised operator and developer of luxury properties, now manages the property.
A landmark reimagined
Originally designed by architect Henri Van Dievoet in 1910 under royal commission, the building first served as the Grand Hotel Astoria, hosting guests including Winston Churchill and Andy Warhol.
The restoration, conducted in collaboration with Urban Brussels, Patrimoine Brussels and the Royal Commission, preserved the palace’s Belle Époque architecture while integrating modern features.
The hotel now o ers 126 rooms and suites, blending historic charm with contemporary comfort.
Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels, said: “The reopening of Corinthia Brussels marks an exciting chapter for
both our brand and the city. This project isn’t just about restoring a hotel – it’s about redefining what luxury hospitality can be. By collaborating with some of Belgium’s most forward-thinking craftspeople and gastronomic minds, we’re challenging conventions and creating something truly special.”
A landmark reimagined
Corinthia is a growing family of luxury hotels, founded in Malta in 1968 by the Pisani family. The company has grown over the years into a multinational investor, developer and operator of hotels and real estate. Its portfolio includes hotels in New York, London, Budapest, Lisbon and the island of Malta. Current developments underway in various stages of design and construction include landmark hotels in Rome, Bucharest, Doha, Riyadh and new resorts in Malta and the Maldives. ●
■ Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels is targeting world cities
■ Corinthia Spa by Sisley in Brussels opened its doors on 16 December
CORINTHIA HOTELS
CORINTHIA HOTELS
■ The spa’s design, led by interiors firm AvroKO, blends rustic charm with modern luxury
A rustic retreat
Slow wellness, Californian botanicals and rustic elegance have inspired Auberge Resorts’ new Lavender Barn spa
Auberge Resorts Collection has o cially opened Lavender Barn, its latest spa and wellness concept, at The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in California's picturesque Santa Ynez Valley. Inspired by the surrounding Los Olivos area’s aromatic lavender fields, fertile soil and twilight skies, Lavender Barn has been conceived to merge age-old healing practices with a philosophy of slow wellness.
“Lavender Barn was conceptualised as an escape from exhaustion, o ering a space surrounded by the soothing embrace of aromatic lavender. Here, slow, gentle wellbeing provides the perfect environment to savour life,” says Vivianne Garcia-Tunon, VP of wellbeing at Auberge.
A sense of place
The spa’s design, led by interiors firm AvroKO, blends rustic charm with modern luxury to honour the region’s natural beauty and heritage.
Featuring five nature-inspired treatment rooms and a couples suite, the airy space evokes a sense of tranquillity, with vaulted ceilings, rustic beams and expansive windows that connect guests to the tranquility of the outdoors, while being orientated towards the light. Signature elements, including burnt wood finishes and barn-style thermal areas, create an atmosphere of refined relaxation, complemented by locally sourced materials, including walnut, cork and a range of metals.
Guest journey
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed into the reception area with the calming scent of lavender and invited to explore the retail space, which is stocked with locally-sourced wellbeing products and skincare from Biologique Recherche, Monastery and Oak Essentials.
After settling into private locker rooms, every guest begins their spa experience with the self-guided thermal ritual, designed to cleanse and rejuvenate the body, mind and
Lavender Barn was conceptualised for guests seeking an escape
■ Lavender Barn will o er a curated schedule of wellness workshops and sessions led by regional practitioners in 2025
spirit. The journey includes a cycle of contrast bathing in an oak wood sauna, a eucalyptus steamroom, a cold plunge and a vitality pool. Following this, guests can retreat to a relaxation room featuring an elegant fireplace and a selection of natural snacks and aromatic beverages.
The spa’s menu includes a range of facials, massages and body rituals, in addition to a selection of signature treatments powered by nature-based products from local suppliers. The spa also o ers fitness classes. ●
lesmills.com/hotel-fitness-programs
NATURALLY COOL DESIGN
TechnoAlpin’s snow technology is not only an effective way to introduce gentle cold therapy into the spa environment, it’s also a powerful biophilic design element that can bring the wonder of nature indoors
The mental and physical benefits of spending time in awe-inspiring nature –from forest bathing to hot spring dipping to watching the Aurora Borealis – are well documented. But while growing numbers of people are out enjoying the latest ‘nature trends’, the fact remains that a significant majority, especially city dwellers, could be spending up to 90 per cent of their time indoors.
With great advances in biophilic design – where designers and architects bring natural elements into the built environment – there has never been a better time for wellness facilities to become the places where customers can get a whole range of realistic and beneficial ‘nature fixes’ however and whenever they want.
Giuliana Salmaso, architect and founder of Studio Giuliana Salmaso and an expert in biophilic
Today it’s possible to create indoor environments that rejuvenate almost as much as a walk in the woods
Giuliana Salmaso, biophilic design expert
design, says: “Today it’s possible to create indoor environments that rejuvenate almost as much as a walk in the woods. Our goal is to create spaces where stress-inducing elements are neutralised and regenerative components are maximised.”
These design concepts go way beyond just the introduction of plants and greenery, of course. The Tuscany-based studio recently collaborated with leading snow creators TechnoAlpin Indoor – also based in Italy – to create a multi-sensory biophilic wellness space focused on the cold therapy journey.
The ‘cold with joy’ concept is based around centuries-old contrast therapy, inspired by ancient Roman and Kneipp practices. Salmaso’s design guides visitors through warm and cold elements, different forms of water and snow, making the cold experience enjoyable and accessible without the sudden shock of intense temperature change.
Salmaso says: ”I wanted to capture that feeling of wellbeing, intimacy, happiness and calmness that one experiences when watching snow fall. This was made possible with TechnoAlpin’s technology that generates soft indoor snow, filling different areas of the spa with the enchanting sight of crisp and freshly-fallen snow.”
FRESH POWDER SNOW
TechnoAlpin’s Snowsky is the technology that produces this real snowfall in the middle of a room. For even greater immersion, TechnoAlpin’s Snowroom offers a holistic way for guests to cool down, especially after a sauna or steamroom session, enveloping them in an engaging cavelike atmosphere of cold air and soft snow.
The Snowroom is cooled to -10° C (14°F) and filled with real snow,made from only water and air.
Fresh snow is made every night, so clean powder snow is ready every morning to delight guests. The entire body cools down efficiently and gently: the respiratory tract and lungs, organs and brain cells cool down at a slow pace and the skin is cooled over the entire surface without any damage to the tissues.
Sara Brenninger of TechnoAlpin says: “Snow is the gentlest version of cooling and can be enjoyed by both men and women of any age. The benefits of cold therapy are made accessible to all, without the shock or dizziness that many would like to avoid.”
Snow also ticks many of the right boxes for an effective biophilic design environment. As Salmaso says: “A well-designed restorative space should incorporate as many biophilic patterns as possible. An innovative approach is integrating snow, which provides thermal variability when combined with warm elements such as a sauna.
“The integration of snow in an indoor spa environment covers at least four of the 15 biophilic design patterns. Snow is a biophilic element that designers can use, just like water, plants and animals. It’s fascinating – a form of water – and engages all the senses.”
With advances in technology, indoor snow can become a special highlight for luxury wellness and spa areas – a new way of cooling down that guests will remember. l
More: www.indoor.technoalpin.com
PHOTO: GIULIANA SALMASO
The ‘cold with joy’ spa concept combines different forms of water, including falling snow
SUPPLIER NEWS
Suppliers tell Spa Business insider about their latest product, design and technology launches
■ Aromatherapy Associates developed the protocol to empower guests to unwind and reconnect with themselves
Aromatherapy Associates develops ritual for Mandarin Oriental and appoints new head of spa sales for EMEA & corporate
Aromatherapy Associates, a luxury British spa and wellness brand, has created an exclusive new treatment for the spa at Mandarin Oriental’s fivestar urban hotel in Barcelona.
The new 90-minute Rest & Recharge Sleep Experience launched this month and combines aromatherapy with guided breathing, visualisation and specialist massage techniques to deliver a restorative or revitalising journey.
The treatment is designed to soothe and promote inner calm by supporting both physical
and emotional wellbeing, empowering guests to unwind and reconnect with themselves.
Guests dictate the tone of their treatment by choosing one of Aromatherapy Associates’ signature essential oil blends; Revive Evening or Deep Relax.
In other news from Aromatherapy Associates, the brand has recently bolstered its team by appointing Isadora Provatos as head of spa sales for EMEA & corporate.
With a career spanning media, luxury sales and wellness, Provatos has previously worked with
brands including OTO Wellbeing, QVC and Publicis Media.
Notably, her accomplishments in the wellness sector include forging strategic partnerships with prestigious hospitality groups like Soho House, Accor and Mandarin Oriental.
In her new role, Provatos is committed to driving innovation in the wellness sector and expanding Aromatherapy Associates’ presence across strategic regions.
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SUPPLIER NEWS
Larose Guyon unveils willow-inspired lighting to bring nature’s elegance indoors
Canada-based lighting specialist Larose Guyon has unveiled Saule, a meticulously handcrafted lighting collection inspired by the graceful beauty of the willow tree.
Described as a celebration of nature’s elegance, Saule is designed to "infuse interiors with a sense of serene refinement", making it a fitting statement piece for luxury spa and hospitality relaxation areas, lobbies or dining spaces.
Featuring hand-formed brass leaves cascading from sleek metal arches, Saule mimics the gentle sway of willow branches, capturing and reflecting light in a shimmering display.
At the heart of each fixture is a dusky pink, handblown glass globe, reminiscent of delicate fruit suspended within the branches. Each globe is crafted by skilled artisans in Montreal, adding a unique, artisanal touch.
“It took numerous iterations to refine the design, ensuring we captured the flowing grace of willow leaves while maintaining the fixture’s overall coherence,” explains Audrée Larose, co-founder of Larose Guyon.
“Balancing refined elegance with a natural, organic essence was both challenging and deeply rewarding.”
Available in both small and large sizes, Saule offers
We Work Well appoints Dany Brind’Amour
Spa, fitness and hospitality buyer event company We Work Well has appointed Dany Brind’Amour as its first event director for its US wellness conference branch, W3Spa North America. Brind’Amour’s career has spanned the globe, from North America to Europe, where he has collaborated with established brands including Babor, Comfort Zone and G.M. Collin. We Work Well co-founders Monica Helmstetter and Lucy Hugo believe Brind’Amour’s strategic vision, entrepreneurial drive and passion for wellness make him the perfect choice to lead W3Spa North America into its next phase of growth. They emphasised that Brind’Amour’s appointment reflects their dedication to the US industry.
■ Larose Guyon spent a year developing the collection
configurations of one, three or five fixtures to accommodate various residential and commercial spaces, further enhancing its adaptability and impact.
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■ Brind'Amour has 15 years of industry experience
“Dany’s dynamic leadership and commitment to the global wellness industry align perfectly with our mission of creating events that prioritise authentic business connections,” said Helmstetter.
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Essence launches aromatherapy travel kit
Wearable aromatherapy supplier
Essence has unveiled a new Travel Amenity Kit designed to enhance wellness experiences for hotel and resort guests before, during and after their stay. The set aims to support hotel partners in providing an elevated, multi-sensory experience that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation on the go.
At the heart of the kit are Essence’s silicone nasal rings, infused with essential oils and designed for discreet, comfortable wear around the septum. Available in various scents and custom blends to boost energy, relieve stress and ease nausea.
"Essence Rings are versatile and can be used anywhere – from spas and hotels to hospitals, aeroplanes, yoga studios and even sports fields," said Michael DeLeeuw, founder of Essence.
"Our Travel Kits empower our partners to integrate wellness into multiple guest touchpoints, from arrival to turn-down service and beyond."
■ Each kit includes a five-pack of nasal rings
Each kit includes a five-pack of nasal rings, essential personal care items and a reusable case. Hotels can co-brand the kits and create signature oil blends with low minimum orders, providing guests with a memorable experience that extends beyond their stay.
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Florence Roby introduces comprehensive capsule uniform range
British-based, family-run spa uniform supplier, Florence Roby, has announced the launch of its new capsule wardrobe range.
The line is designed to offer spas a versatile range of breathable uniform options, complete with three different tunics, two dresses, high-waisted wide-leg trousers and an elegant jacket.
Company director Jan Roby commented: “The new designs allow for the visual differentiation between managers and employees or simply between departments. Many staff transition between roles during the day – in the treatment
room one minute, at reception the next – this range is adaptable enough to be customised for any role.”
Manufactured from Softex fabric, the range is non-iron, durable and designed to move comfortably with the wearer.
Available in Grey, French Navy and Black, the pieces can be mixed and matched to create a cohesive capsule wardrobe. The collection is available in sizes 6 to 26, with a made-tomeasure option for inclusivity across all shapes and sizes. Maternity versions are also available.
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■ The collection includes tunics, dresses and scrubs
WEB ADDRESS BOOK
Connect with spa organisations from around the world. We welcome your entries – write to spateam@leisuremedia.com
Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC)
■ www.apswc.org
Association of Malaysian Spas (AMSPA)
■ www.amspa.org.my
Australian Hot and Mineral Springs Alliance
■ www.bathing.org
Australasian Wellness Association (ASWELL)
■ https://aswell.au
Bali Spa and Wellness Association
■ www.balispawellness-association.org
Brazilian Esthetics & Spas Association
■ www.abesbrasil.com.br
Bulgarian Union for Balneology and Spa Tourism (BUBSPA)
■ www.bubspa.org
Association of Spas of the Czech Republic
■ www.jedemedolazni.cz
Estonian Spa Association
■ www.estonianspas.eu
European Historic Thermal Towns Association
■ www.historicthermaltowns.eu
European Spas Association
■ www.europeanspas.eu
Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT)
■ www.fht.org.uk
Federterme
■ www.federterme.it
FEMTEC (the World Federation of Hydrotherapy and Climatotherapy)
