Discovering the AltiraSpa Spa Experience
by Robyn Deeb, Les Nouvelles Esthetiques S.A.

Spas, there is no place quite like them. They are the most amazing sanctuary, a place where one feels completely at peace and whole. I had always been told that the Spa Experience is one that can be extended beyond the treatment room, yet I could not imagine achieving the same degree of relaxation and revitalisation as during a spa treatment. However, on a recent trip to the magnificent AltiraSpa at the Arabella Sheraton Grand Hotel in Cape Town I discovered the essence of a spa and the true meaning of a Spa Experience, that extends beyond the treatment room.
 
It was in fact early one morning as I set my alarm clock at 05:30 to enjoy the world-class spa facilities at AltiraSpa. I am not one for early mornings, yet I managed to grin and bear it based on a recommendation from AltiraSpa's well-respected spa manager Sheila Otieno. The lights of the city still shone below as I wrapped myself up in my warm spa gown, placed my comfy slippers on my feet and headed off to the spa.

As the doors of the spa opened, I was instantly transported to another world. Located on the nineteenth floor of the lavish hotel, AltiraSpa has the most iconic views of Cape Town. Yet no one place was more breathtaking than the infinity pool of the spa.

Upon entering the pool area I gasped. The views of majestic Table Mountain, the immaculate beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, and the city shinning below where phenomenal. I was all alone, and as I dipped my body into the warm water of the pool and came up for a breath of air I realised that this moment was a true spa experience. I felt as if I could almost reach out and touch the sky as the sun began to rise and kiss the peaks of Table Mountain. And as she began to light up the African sky towards the endless blue of the ocean and harbour below, it dawned on me that I had I was experiencing the 'unobtainable'. I in fact discovered the expanded spa experience. I realised that I did not need to have a massage or a therapist by my side, but instead I required some alone time in a magnificent setting, the beauty of Mother Nature and an open mind. I have never been more at peace, and I find myself longing for my next expanded spa experience, and my return visit to this breathtaking spa.

For more information contact: AltiraSpa, Arabella Sheraton Grand Hotel on 021 412 8203