The rebirth of Feather Hill

rebirth The of FeatherHill

After extensive property renovations that took almost three years to complete, The Feather Hill Wellness and Retreat Spa in North West Province opened for business early in 2020. JOANNA STERKOWICZ gets the inside track. eather Hill, a boutique hotel and wedding venue in Potchefstroom, has been in existence since 2008 and undergone several transitions during that time. Says spa director Lionel Weingartz: “When the ownership of the entire property changed, F the new owners had a bigger vision to ensure that the spa be part of a destination getaway and wedding venue. This was an opportunity to blow new life back into this spa oasis. As such, the upgrades and refurbishments were done to suit the latest trends and to offer the best facilities to guests.” It is important to us to ensure that our guests have an easy, professional and enjoyable experience right from the start.

Owners: Russell du Preez and Dr Hannes Jonker Spa Director: Lionel Weingartz Number of therapists: Six Number of treatment rooms: Six (two couples’ rooms and four single rooms) Hydro facilities: Sauna, steam room, rasul, heated indoor swimming pool Brands: In-house brand specially manufactured by The Feather Hill Spa at a glance

He explains that alongside the upgrade, a new brand was established – The Feather Hill – offering a world class spa, boutique hotel, wedding and conference venue, and restaurant. The resort is situated on the edge of a hill with unlimited views, surrounded by Sugar Bush trees and un-spoilt scenery. The owners of the spa are Russell du Preez and Dr Hannes Jonker, who are co-shareholders with three others in The Feather Hill property.

What changed? While the main structure of the spa’s building stayed the same, its overall interior had to transform. Interior designer Ettienne Hannekom was tasked to change the existing classic Tuscan feel to a modern and tranquil tropical day spa style.

Weingartz continues: “The renovations did take a long time but believe me, it was worth the wait. This refurbishment includes the full package – from the hotel to the wedding venue, spa, bridal dressing room and other venues for special events.

“We decided not to operate the spa during the refurbishment process as we didn’t want to spoil the surprise of the spa’s new look, and because we wanted to ensure a magnificent guest experience. So we wanted to be ready to deliver on our promise before opening our doors again.

“The treatment menu was overhauled after conducting market research on what guests in our immediate surroundings would like, as well as what the Johannesburg market that travels to experience the ultimate ‘breakaway’ over weekends would want.”

Unique selling points In discussing the spa’s USPs (unique selling points), Weingartz emphasises that The Feather Hill doesn’t sell a spa treatment, but rather an experience.

“With any spa booking made, you are our guest for the day. We encourage guests to come early in the morning to soak up as much of The Feather Hill as possible before or after their relaxing spa treatment.

“The spa uses an online booking system to enable guests to manage their bookings and choose their therapist. It is important to us to ensure that our guests have an easy, professional and enjoyable experience right from the start. Every interaction matters and adds to the journey we aim to offer,” he comments. >

This was an opportunity to blow new life back into this spa oasis. As such, the upgrades and refurbishments were done to suit the latest trends and to offer the best facilities to guests.

The Feather Hill Signature Ritual is a spa package that is designed to treat guests with every spa facility possible so that they can experience the entire spa. On arrival, guests are served beverages and refreshments and then invited to change into plush spa robes and slippers. Their therapists guide them to the sauna, steam room and indoor

heated swimming pool, to start the journey of relaxation. This commences with a full body hot stone massage, followed by a relaxation facial. The next treat is a Perfect Pedi Foot Peel Treatment, overlooking the breathtaking view. A relaxing Indian Head Massage completes this phase of the journey before guests receive a full body mud treatment in the rasul. Following these treats, guests can feast on a delicious light lunch, or platter, with sparkling wine.

Says Weingartz: “While retail products are available, we don’t believe that spa relaxation is about retail, it’s about treating our guests to an unforgettable experience.” Target markets He believes that the new spa’s offering is a welcome alternative for Women’s Day events, secretary days and top executive strategic sessions. “This is especially considering the surrounding industries and businesses who need to look after staff wellbeing and special events. “We also foresee that tourists will add a visit to the spa to their itinerary and together with other tourist attractions in the North West, we can offer another memorable experience to their travel stories,” concludes Weingartz. A Kiddies’ Package, which is targeted at children’s birthday parties, is also available at the spa. PB