From the weird to the wow, LT scoured the country for best (and most unusual) spa treatments in town and then sampled them for you. Here are our top 8 spa treatments to treat yourself to this winter season.
1. Gold Therapy at Spa Phoenicia
What they say: “A facial made of gold leaf and natural products. It enriches and vitalizes the skin by first scrubbing and massaging the face, then applying and massaging in the gold foil for the skin to fully absorb. Prevents skin ageing and enhances the skin’s glow.”
What we say: “Gold Therapy is one of the nicest facials I’ve ever had. Where other facials can leave your face feeling oily, the gold leaf foils are dry and very light on the face – even if you feel like you’ve turned into a gold statue! The therapist kept me informed every step of the way. After the treatment my skin felt hydrated and was visibly glowing. The treatment makes you feel like a million dollars!”
+961 1 357 030, phoeniciabeirut.com, Minet El Hosn, Beirut
2. Breathe Massage at Zenotel
What they say: “A combination of Zenotel treatments including herbal pouches, crystals, bamboo massage and a mini facial. Breathe and feel the positive energy.”
What we say: “Starting with the chime of a gong that channels the Far East rituals of which this treatment takes influence, Zenotel’s Breathe Massage has all the elements for deep relaxation. It starts with a massage using body oils, then switching from hands to a stick. Yes, it may sound odd to have your body rolled out like pastry with bamboo, but it’s actually incredibly relaxing. I left feeling completely rejuvenated; my muscles no longer aching after an intense bike ride the day before.”
+961 4 984 281, zenotel.me, Bhersaf, Bickfaya, Metn
3. The Majestic Four Hands Massage at Essential Spa, Mövenpick
What they say: “Synchronized with two therapists, the massage harmonizes a full body massage with oils.”
What we say: “Two therapists massage you with the same strength; it’s impressive how synchronized they were. The ambiance was great and the relaxation factor lasted well into the next day – my body felt fully recovered.”
+961 1 802 715, movenpick.com,
Général de Gaulle Avenue, Beirut
4. Turkish Bath at Royal Spa
What they say: “In the middle of Le Royal’s Royal Spa, the Turkish Hammam is an attraction itself, constructed in authentic Ottoman style with a central dome. Steam sessions, scrubs and mudbaths are all on the menu, using high quality natural-based products.”
What we say: “I felt like I was reborn after the Turkish bath at Le Royal. After sweating out for 10 minutes on the impressive marble göbektai – raised platform, the therapist soaked me with warm water, lathered me up and gave me a relaxing massage. Then it was time for scrubbing with a traditional cloth. It felt like sand paper at first, but when I saw the dirt coming off my body, it was well worth the sensation – no pain, no gain. After an invigorating Dead Sea mud body wrap, I was soaked once again and even had my hair washed. Rest assured – you’ve never been cleaner in your life!”
+961 4 555 444, leroyal.com, Dbayeh
5. Salt Cave Massage at Las Salinas Spa
What they say: “The salt cave therapy is a unique treatment and the first in Lebanon. Inside, guests can have a full body massage, so it has a double effect; the relaxation of the massage and the salt therapy benefits.”
What we say: “When I laid on the massage bed, the therapist injected medical salt into a special machine. Inside the cave, it turned into microscopic particles that remarkably improve your respiratory system. The whole atmosphere prepares your body for a pampering massage. Everything about the setting was ideal. Once finished, your muscles are relaxed and you feel as if you can breathe more easily.”
+961 6 542 862, lassalinas-lb.com, El Koura, Anfeh
6. Thai Yoga Massage at Four Seasons
What they say: “The Thai Yoga Massage aims at opening up energy channels to bring well-being to body and mind. It uses a combination of stretching, tissue compression, acupressure and assisted yoga postures. It is often called the ‘lazy person’s yoga’ as many of the movements relate to yoga postures.”
What we say: “I liked the fact that I had to wear a special outfit for the treatment (a long sleeved top and loose trousers) and the bed was much larger than usual. Before we started the treatment, the therapist washed my feet and used a mild scrub. It was divine! I enjoyed the stretching aspect of the massage and the fact that it engaged and mobilized every muscle in my body.”
+961 1 761 900, fourseasons.com/Beirut, Minet El Hosn, Beirut
7. Shiro Dhara at EddÉ Spa
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What they say: “Lukewarm herb-infused Ayurvedic oil is gently and steadily poured over the forehead, using a special rhythmic swaying movement and gentle massage. It is highly effective in removing mental stress and anxieties and in treating insomnia and migraine.”
What we say: “I had a minor headache before the treatment but afterwards it had gone and I felt thoroughly rested. The therapist was very attentive. My only down point – removing the oil and scent from my hair was difficult; I went to a work meeting smelling great, but very spa-like!”
+961 9 546 666/ 126 , eddesands.com, Byblos
8. Pure Indulgence at PureGray Health Club & Spa
What they say: “90 minutes during which four hands perform in harmony to relieve all your muscles from pain and stress. 90 minutes that leave you with a feeling of extreme relaxation and comfort, topped with an express facial.”
What we say: “The massage was very nice and relaxing. Even though it was the middle of the day it made me feel so disconnected. The facial was great too; I had a clean and clear face for two days.”
+961 1 962 885, campbellgrayhotels.com/le-gray/spa/puregray, Martyrs’ Square, Beirut Central District
JUST OPENED:
Urban Retreat Beirut
With a soft opening in mid-July, Urban Retreat Beirut will officially launch towards the end of 2016. Located at the new Aishti By The Sea complex, the new gym and spa is a partnership between Aishti and the luxury British spa, Urban Retreat. The spa will offer a range of relaxing massages, treatments and facials, and clients will be able to use the on-site gym, sauna and steam, with a pool available from the end of the year.
Article edited on October 22, 2021.
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