SPA HOTSPOT: AURIGA SPA

Understated Luxury

Auriga Spa at Capella Sydney offers exceptional wellness experiences, rooted in nature, says NADINE DILONG.

‘Quiet luxury’ has been a major trend in fashion for the past few years. Think old money, understated looks, and quality over quantity. These are some references that popped into my mind when I entered Sydney’s newest luxury hotel, Capella. Dark wood, white marble, and velvet furnishings made me feel like I stepped into a different time reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour.

Capella Sydney is located in what used to be the Department of Education, with its golden sandstone facade an integral part of Sydney’s CBD. Reawakening as Capella Sydney late last year, it is setting a global benchmark for luxury accommodation, cuisine and cultural immersion. The Capella Group has won many awards, including ‘World’s Best Hotel Brand’ by Travel + Leisure in 2023.

Of course, no award-winning luxury hotel would be complete without an outstanding spa, in this case, Auriga Spa is located on the sixth floor, offering one of the most stunning indoor pools I have ever seen. Large white columns and a 20-metre heated swimming pool bask in natural light as the spa is set beneath a glass dome, offering views of the sky as I relax pool-side on one of the incredibly comfortable lounge chairs. Next to the pool, there is a yoga space and a Technogy-equipped gym.

Natural light in a spa and wellness space may sound like nothing special, but it makes a world of difference to the overall ambiance and is actually quite rare as a lot of hotel spas are located underground. The wellness facilities, which are available to spa guests for 30 minutes prior to their treatment include a steam room, sauna, experience shower, and even an ice fountain encouraging guests to a bit of contrast therapy.

The spa’s treatment menu is unique and Australia-centric, with signature massages informed by the new and full moons aimed at increasing circulation, relieving physical and emotional tension, and balancing chakras. Capella Sydney’s spa offering features a custom-made range of skincare products by Byron Bay brand Synthesis Organics.

I am booked in for a full body massage and facial –the perfect combination if you ask me as the skincare products on your face can really take their time to work their magic while you enjoy the massage. Before the treatment begins, I need some time to take in the beauty of the treatment room – again, there is a glass dome, so-called ‘heritage lanterns’, in the ceiling which means the room is flooded in natural light. Moreover, the dark timber used on the floor and walls is broken up by a green wall full of moss and other greenery, making me feel like I am immersed in nature - biophilic design at its best. I have my own bathroom within the treatment room, and the incredibly soft, wide treatment bed is located right in the centre of the room, underneath the heritage lantern, offering the perfect spot to relax for the next two hours.

My treatment starts with a face cleanse and mild physical exfoliation. Then, a deeply clarifying mask is applied, and as it soaks in, I receive a full body massage, culminating on my scalp. The treatment bed is heated, the blankets used are plush and heavy on my body, making me feel cocooned as I almost drift to sleep as the therapist’s hands massage my head.

It is a full-body rejuvenating experience that feels luxurious, but also grounding in a way as the Australian products used and rituals performed are rooted and inspired by nature, including the very soft and subtle music that is played, which reminded me of being in a utopian jungle, slowly becoming one with it.

Capella’s Auriga Spa truly is Sydney’s latest gem in the spa and wellness space, one that it desperately needed. It is oh-so luxurious, but in a grounded, understated way that I’m sure will appeal to many guests looking to indulge in a tranquil haven in the middle of the city.