Espa features Li'Tya spa products, which integrate precious qualities of the Australian earth with its native plants and spirit. Treatments offered combine the wisdom of Aboriginal spirituality and healing methods with aromatherapy and herbalist principles to produce powerful experiences for body and soul. Espa's signature treatment, the Mala Mayi (clan food-Arnhem Land) is a luscious full body, rejuvenation affair. An individually designed treatment, guests choose between reharmonising, rejuvenating or detoxifying blends of clay, salt and oil, which are then used to cleanse, exfoliate, massage and energise.
Treatments begin with a soothing footbath and the indigenous ritual of "smudging," where bark and flowers are burnt (the effect is like incense) to cleanse a space of negative energies and centre a person's spirit into the room. Espa's nurturing and generous ambience is obvious in the little things, like a pot of fresh tea and an invitation to relax in a peaceful lounge area, post pampering. It all contributes to a deeply satisfying spa experience.
In January 2004, Espa was recognised as one of the "Best 100 Spas of the World" by Harpers and Queens London.
LEAVE YOUR SHOES AND YOUR CARES AT THE DOOR OF THIS SANCTUARY AND ALLOW YOUR SENSES FREE REIN
The Spa of Peace and Plenty, Dunk Island, Queensland
Beyond the coconut palms that fringe this lush tropical island, hidden within a tranquil rainforest garden, an airy, Balinese-style timber pavilion is waiting to warmly welcome you. A footbridge leads the way to the doors of this Paradise, which is also the place to leave your cares and allow your senses free rein.
A nurturing energy infuses every aspect of this thoughtfully operated spa, thanks to a caring, professional staff. While your feet are gently washed, sit back with a glass of fresh strawberry, lime and orange-infused water and drink in the tranquility. The spa's unique signature scent, an exotic combination of lime, blood orange patchouli, rose, ylang ylang jasmine and geranium fills the air, leading your senses on an enriching journey of renewal.
Dunk Island can be reached by light aircraft (45 minutes) or coach and launch (2 hours) from Cairns International Airport. The original inhabitants of Dunk Island, the Djiru Aboriginal tribe, named it Coonanglebah-the isle of peace and plenty, a moniker that still fits. The fertile environment provides the fruit and flowers found in the spa while the ocean's presence is reflected in many of the delights on the spa menu. An inspired range of treatments specially designed for the tropics is available, including the Mermaid's Song, an exotic body polish which leaves your skin softened to perfection. A crushed pearl peel is first used to polish the body before it is deeply relaxed in an oil and Dead Sea salt-infused bath. A fragrant toning mist is then applied to the body and a moisturising milk massaged into the skin, giving it a radiant glow. The treats continue afterwards, with a refreshing sorbet served in the meditation lounge to all guests, who are then invited to linger longer in one of the many inviting relaxation nooks.
The Ayurvedic treatment Shirodhara can induce a calm, blissful state of serenity and expanded relaxation.
This spa's modern and organic design features many spaces dedicated to reflection and relaxation.
This spa was founded on the philosophy of helping people feel fabulous, wherever they are in their lives. As the original spa director, Luisa Anderson, said, "Our treatments are wonderful to give, magical to receive and deeply healing. We also hope they provide an exquisite transforming experience."
Much about Dunk Island complements the post-spa state of mind, which in my experience meant being so relaxed I could barely walk or talk. Fortunately there are plenty of divine spots to do nothing more than contemplate the view in bliss and oblivion, while someone brings you delicious things to nibble and sip. This is the perfect place to enjoy a generous slice of spa lifestyle.
Stone, wood, leaf, flower, water—The Spa of Peace and Plenty knows that the best things in life are the simple ones. Flowers and herbs used in treatments are grown on the island. Relax with someone you love.
THIS RESORT AND SPA ENVIRONMENT IS LAID BACK IN THE BEST AUSTRALIAN SENSE-WARM, RELAXED AND DOWN-TO-EARTH
The Sun Spa, Hyatt Regency Coolum, Queensland
Designed as a luxury destination spa in the late 1980s, this grand dame of Australian resort spas continues to lead the way into unchartered spa territory. Recent expansion has created a visually thrilling spa filled with many unusual features, such as colour therapy lights which change the colour of a room.
Located about ninety minutes north of Brisbane Airport and only half an hour from the trendy resort town of Noosa, the Sun Spa has 19 treatment rooms and optional spa suites (booking one is a must). A place of sun-dappled walls and glowing skylights, spa suites feature baths in secluded courtyards overlooked by native trees, while the sight and sound of falling water is ever present.
Set in 150 hectares of Queensland rainforest and bushland and facing miles of deserted ocean beach, this picturesque resort is lauded for its great service, excellent conference facilities and fantastic childcare options. The Sun Spa's "adults only" facilities, spread over 8,000 square metres, include a 25-metre heated outdoor lap pool, aquasize pool, gymnasium, aerobics and yoga studio, squash courts and hair and beauty salon. The resort also has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, bicycles, bushwalking tracks and nine swimming pools.
Treatments are naturally inspired by the sun. Essential oils used during body treatments and massages combine with the sun's daily phases, for example the invigorating Sun Rise blend combines lemon, grapefruit, orange, lime and basil oils, while Sun Day is a reflective blend of eucalyptus, lavender, niaouli, tea tree and peppermint.
Sun Spa lifestyle services include personal training, fitness checks, swimming or golf lessons and daily physical classes such as aerobics, yoga, belly dancing or tai chi.
Laid-back, kid-friendly and with the Queensland sun overhead, the Hyatt Regency Coolum has something to offer guests big and small.
SPACE, TIME AND PRIVACY WORK TOGETHER HERE TO SOOTHE AND RELAX GUESTS
The Spa and Total Living Centre, Couran Cove
Resort, South Stradbroke Island, Queensland
Couran Cove
