The Willow Stream Spa at the new Fairmont Zimbali Resort is well worth the visit. With rolling views of the Indian Ocean, the new spa(and hotel) is modern, wide open spaces, and decorated with warm colors, natural fibers and a hint of Africa .
The spa menu is extensive with a nice focus on “men’s” treatments as well as dayand bridal programs, couples treatments and the usual variety of massage/facials/nails. They use world class products such as Phytomer and Aromatherapy Associates as well as South African essential oils that is used in their signature treatments.
When I checked in, I had booked a 90 minute massage, and because the therapists are well versed in modalities, I actually then changed to a 60 minute massage and 60 minute facial- both done by the same therapist… unheard of in the US, especially changing your treatments while you are checking in. I love the flexibility!
Robes, slippers, locker room are nice- relax room warm and open with a variety of teas, water and health muffins. My therapist, “Precious” called my name with wide smile and then we walked down a huge white marble staircase to one of the nine treatment rooms. For some reason, there is a sense of the exotic middle east, with its massive windows, columns, marble, dark wood and fountains.
My bed was heavenly, felt like I was in a Swiss lodge with the 20lb down filled comforter welcoming me. The added comfort is an additional foam mat on top of the massage table. It was warm and cozy and perfect for when you are on you are face down as the mat forms to your body.
I had a great deep tissue massage with “rose” oil from Aromotherapy Associates. I do think that they should give you an option of oils to select from. Precious was going to give my and oil, “revive”, but since I know (and love) this line, I asked if she had the rose oil. She did, but sadly added addition drops of other essential rose oil, which was awful- very strong and took away from the gorgeous Aromatherpy Associates oils.
After my 60 minute massage, she went right into my facial- which was perfect. Phytomer has a new product, a warming detox mask (for your back). When you sit up, a piece of plastic with seaweed put onto the table, when you lay back down on it… it starts to heat up and bubble. It is a strange and wonderful feeling. Every once in a while during the facial, a bubble would pop and squish. My “rehydrating marine facial” was excellent and even 24 hours later, my skin feels hydrated and plump. I love that she gave me a very active facial massage using several techniques and pressure points.
After my 12o minutes of luxury, I went to the downstairs relax room, where there is 2 levels of open window over looking the property. Sheets of curtains hang from the ceiling and surround the lounge chairs- very elegant (except I kept stepping on them and just knew I would pull one down). The gardens are hipnotic to look at as you drink tea and cups of ginger flavored water.
The service is excellent, rooms welcoming and prices (on an international scale) are right. Plan on spending time at the pool, gym and steam… as I mentioned earlier… well worth the visit!
Susan Gwaltney
Essential Spa Consulting- SPA BLOG
