Prepare to be pampered! The Bazaar spa team is on a mission to unearth the ultimate sanctuaries, those havens that truly deserve your precious downtime. Whether you crave a rejuvenating facial, a tension-busting massage, or simply a tranquil afternoon by the pool, we’ve got you covered. This week, we’re diving into the lavish, head-to-toe treatment experience at Claridge’s, a legendary Mayfair institution, and now one of the UK’s most coveted spa destinations.
A Sanctuary Below the City Lights
Nestled three floors beneath Claridge’s iconic black and white lobby, the spa unfolds across a sprawling 7,000 square feet. It’s an oasis of tranquility that effortlessly whisks you away from the bustling city above. Designed by renowned architect Andre Fu, the spa draws inspiration from the serene beauty of Japan. From the cascading water feature and cherry blossom art (a Damien Hirst masterpiece, no less) to the calming wooden walls, every detail evokes a sense of tranquility. A subtle yet captivating scent permeates the air – not your typical essential oil aroma, but a warm, comforting blend reminiscent of toasted rice. This is the signature aroma of their hand-crafted poultices (warm pouches of grains used in treatments) and a custom fragrance of cinnamon, cedarwood, and clary sage.
A World of Treatments: Holistic and High-Tech
The spa offers a curated selection of treatments, from ancient healing rituals to cutting-edge facials, encapsulating the perfect marriage of holistic and technological wellness. The latest addition to their menu is the Omorovicza Signature Treatment, a luxurious experience that unfolds in the serene Pink Room. This softly-lit haven, bathed in gentle shades of dusty pink and terracotta, features a heated rose onyx treatment bed, private shower facilities, and an en-suite sauna.
The Omorovicza Signature Treatment: A Journey of Rejuvenation
Over the next two hours, prepare to be cleansed, invigorated, and enveloped in Omorovicza’s signature Hungarian Moor Mud. This potent mud, rich in calcium, magnesium, and fulvic acid, works its magic to revitalize and clarify both your face and body. The experience begins with 15 minutes in the sauna, melting away the day’s stresses and preparing your body for the transformative journey ahead. The Hammam-style treatment then follows, with gentle dry brushing from your feet to shoulders, followed by a thorough scrub, rinsed away with a refreshing shower. You’ll then be treated to long, soothing massage strokes using a luxurious body oil, followed by another refreshing rinse. Next, prepare to be enveloped in a nourishing body mask while indulging in a soothing head massage, a luxurious hair wash, and a deep cleansing facial complete with a sculpting massage to alleviate tension and reduce puffiness.
A Symphony of Sensations: From Sauna to Sweet Dreams
After the mask is gently removed, you’ll return to the sauna, helping to improve circulation and deepen the effects of the treatment. Finally, prepare for a truly relaxing massage that utilizes balletic movements to promote lymphatic drainage and melt away muscle tension.
This is an action-packed session, yet the expert massage therapists ensure you feel completely pampered and nurtured. Despite the steam and moisture, don’t be surprised if you find yourself drifting into a peaceful slumber.
A Transformation Touched by Luxury
You’ll emerge feeling revitalized, your skin impossibly soft and smooth. One Bazaar editor, an avid participant in contact sports, reported that her teammates noticed a “strangely smooth” feeling to her limbs, a testament to the treatment’s transformative power. If you seek a full body reset, this is a must-try experience.
Beyond Omorovicza: A World of Wellness
Beyond the Omorovicza experience, Claridge’s spa offers a range of other luxurious treatments. Discover the power of Augustinus Bader and Face Gym for targeted facials, with Face Gym offering longer, more intensive “workouts” than their other locations. And, for a perfect finish, head to the Josh Wood salon for a trim or blow-dry. Keep your eyes peeled for other renowned names; nail artist Harriet Westmoreland and acupuncturist Ross J. Barr are both featured for residencies, with further talent to come.
The Ultimate Retreat: Poolside Serenity
No five-star spa is complete without a stunning pool, and Claridge’s delivers a true haven in the heart of London. With its elegant pale stone columns and gentle curves, it’s easy to lose yourself in this tranquil oasis. Picture yourself lounging in one of the private poolside cabanas, draped in luxurious linen, bathed in soft light – the perfect place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. And, of course, a treatment or two is essential for a truly unforgettable experience.
Claridge’s Signature: Luxury in Every Detail
As you’d expect from Claridge’s, every detail is meticulously crafted. These subtle touches might go unnoticed, but they elevate the experience to new heights, adding that extra element of luxury and sophistication. “Everything has been ‘Claridge’s-ised’,” spa director Hattie David-Wilkinson tells us, handing over a bespoke-blended herbal tea. Many of these touches draw inspiration from Japan, a place revered for its deep-rooted wellness traditions.
Instead of a standard metal tag, a hand-woven tapestry adorns the door handle of each treatment room to signal if it’s occupied. And, once you’re draped in your robe and ready for your therapist, a delicate bell replaces the awkward “I’m ready” call. It’s a touch of elegance, a subtle reminder that you are in a sanctuary of refined luxury.
