Health Spa Guide : Different Types of Spas

Different typs of spas.
© Mount Nelson Librisa Spa

There is a wide variety of South African health spas to choose from to suit your mood or your state of health, the following definitions give guidelines but really many establishments may actually fall into more than one category due to the services that they offer.

Spas offer a holistic and healthy approach to wellness, with well-trained staff and the latest in technology and treatments. Spas are no longer the exclusive domain of the rich, they are accessible to everyone wanting to de-stress or simply enjoy a good pampering.

Day Spa

The main feature of this type is that it does not offer accommodation and visitors can go for an hour or a day as they please. Clients can choose single treatments or services like a massage, facial, mani / pedi, or they can combine spa services, take a half day package or a full day pamper. Some Day Spas also offer fitness facilities and individual training programmes.

Stay Spa

This category applies to any Spa that offers accommodation. Usually regular day packages are also offered for those who would like to escape for just a day, as well as the multi night or overnight packages, at Health Farms or Spas, Resorts, Hotels and Retrea

Health Spa or Health Farm

The name differs slightly here depending on where you are in the world Health Spa is commonly used in South Africa and the United States whereas Health Farm is used in the United Kingdom. The focus in this category is beauty, health and fitness in a relaxed setting. Guests can choose either healthy cuisine or whatever they like.

Destination Spa

This Spa is all about health and wellness. Guests will find healthy cuisine and professional treatments. Wellness talks and education also feature as well as fitness programmes designed to support and enhance well-being and good health. Location plays a major role in the popularity of a spa and visitors are spoilt for choice when coming to South Africa.

Coastal spas which are sprinkled from Cape Town to KwaZulu-Natal provide stunning views, refreshing sea breezes and rejuvenating treatments. If you can't escape the city, take heart! All major cities have a variety of spas offering a range of treatments for the weary body.


Different typs of spas.
Page: 2 Resort or Hotel Spa
A Resort Spa may have a particular focus be it Golf or Game activities or a Safari Lodge Health Spa. Both Hotels and Resorts generally have a wide va ...