Finding escapism over the last year has been a challenge, so we can’t blame you for wanting to indulge a little bit. Perhaps you’re uptight, stressed, lacking sleep and low in spirits? Maybe you simply need a change of scenery. Whatever you’re seeking, and whether or not you deserve it, we’ve handpicked the best beauty spots and most glamorous spas in the City of Gold with treatments that are guaranteed to refresh and rejuvenate, leaving you fret-free.
Editor’s pick: Balancing Rose Crystal Facial
Beauty enthusiasts travelling to Joburg would be remiss not to experience Africology Spa at The Maslow. Like that friend who can always pull off a red lipstick and knows how to mix a proper martini, this shiny, monochrome labyrinth of treatment rooms is thoroughly modern, lavish and discreet. Plus, it’s cosy and candlelit, creating a sultry 22h00 vibe, which makes it our BFF. The treatment menu’s masterpiece: The 80-minute Balancing Rose Crystal Facial (R900), a premium scalp-to-shoulders facial combining Africology’s beautiful Absolute Rose Serum and a massage with warmed rose quartz stones. This indulgent deep cleansing and hydrating treatment helps to relax muscle tension, reduce the appearance of fine lines, fight the signs of photoageing as well as increase hydration and cell renewal. Our therapist had a heavenly healing touch and delivered the most remarkable results-driven facial that left us feeling luxe and elicited a gasp of joy when we looked in the mirror. We can also confirm that this treatment has the ability to erase the effects of too many champagne-fueled late nights. While you’re there, munch on some cookies (sorry, we mean cleansing fruit) in the relaxation area or dip in the new jacuzzi – you’re likely to have it to yourself, so splash away! Africology Spa at The Maslow, where you can truly unwind, makes booking your next self-love retreat effortless. You know you deserve it.
The Maslow Hotel, 146 Rivonia Road, Sandton
010 226 4688
Coco Champagne Manicure and Pedicure Combo
Life Lux Spa is a super-slick setup, but it’s not just down to the terrifically pretty interiors – marble flooring, aquamarine sofas and gleaming gold finishes that you’ve probably already seen on your Instagram feed. One of our editor’s nail studios of choice is also famed for its Coco Champagne Manicure and Pedicure Combo (from R750), ultra-chic, minimalist nail art and long-lasting Gelish. The therapists are never, ever late; they’re always immaculate and their work is too. Sip champagne while your regular or gel mani-pedi is applied at your leisure. Or, those tight on time, you can book two therapists to work in tandem … job done! Each treatment includes a champagne soak, exfoliation, gold mask (it makes for the silkiest soles), hot stone foot massage and a spritz of Life Lux Spa’s fast-absorbing, thoroughly addictive gold shimmer spray. The manicure is glossy, but the pedicure is in a class of its own. With some of the most vigorous buffing that we’ve encountered and a soporific, firm-but-friendly leg and ankle massage while your feet are encased in the most luxe foot treatment ever, you’ll skip out with brand-new feet that are positively glowing from all the attention. And, the retail section of the spa is magical. Stocked with products from brands including Babor, Elemis and La Praire plus Motherkind collagen, eye pillows and soy massage candles, don’t expect to leave empty-handed.
Embassy Towers, 175 Empire Place, Sandhurst
010 594 5393
Caffeine & Cashmere 