Review by Shana Kay
I've been to Knightsbridge before, but never in this way. I was lucky enough to have some time for a visit to the Refresh Spa at Knightsbridge, Century City recently. At first glance, one does not expect a spa here, but located right next to Canal Walk, with a bird sanctuary behind it, its location is ideal. The spa is located near the Knightsbridge pool area, which has access to the sauna and steam room as well.
On entering the spa I am greeted by name by the therapist who will perform my treatment (hypnotic aroma of essential oils filled the air). This spa is known for its special Moor treatments, which is known for its unique healing abilities. The Moor product penetrates the bloodstream and forms part of a more intense detoxifying and healing process.
The staff is very friendly and apart from loving their work environment, they love the moor products. "You are going to fall in love with these products" the therapist announces, and she was right.
On the treatments
The spa offers a variety of treatments from orthopedic restoration, to weight loss programs. My treatments included a body scrub, body wrap and hydro bath. The initial treatments are not that long, but I have to confess, that being wrapped in mud was more relaxing than I could imagine. Generally, a body scrub is not as relaxing as a body massage but the Moor scrub smells amazing. I did not particularly mind that the smell of the Moor mud was not that great, but as the mud glided over my skin it felt like silk. When leaning forward to have my back done, I had to giggle since the site of my body covered in "chocolate mud" was an image I wish I could have captured for a future laugh.
Once the wrap session had ended, I hopped into the shower to rinse the mud and proceeded to the hydro bath. I wish I had a bath like this at home. The lights were dimmed, the bath had been drawn and the hydro switched on. I climb in and gentle bubbles appear. Suddenly the jets start massaging my back and makes its way down the sides of my body until it reaches my feet , which also get a massage. How relaxing.
The hydro bath lasts for 30 minutes. Post my hydro bath I make my way back to the room for a full body lotion plus Indian head massage. I feel energized and relaxed at the same time.
The therapist announces the end of my session and gives me some time to compose myself for departure. What an experience.
On the spa
Although a small spa, there are five rooms, one couples room, two single therapy rooms,
a nail tech room and a room which houses the resident physio and biokinetist. The ambience is one of tranquility and upliftment. The fact that they offer pregnancy massages, special treatments such as the Moor range as well as offer physio/biokinetic sessions makes this spa unique. Add to the mix, if you cannot find a baby-sitter, not to fear, bring your kids for a kids massage or some nail art to keep them occupied while you relax.
Although a day spa, I would classify this one as a more spiritual one since the focus is on health and well-being. It is also one of the few spas I know which operates from 9am to 9pm, Mondays to Saturdays and 10am to 6pm on Sundays, even trading on certain public holidays.
My overall experience is that smaller spa's offer more attention to detail and special personalized treatment. The Refresh Spa at Knightsbridge also offers memberships and special offers as an incentive to help promote health and well-being. Visit their website for more information.
On the value
The spa offers corporate 
employee well being programs locally and nationally and charges from as little as R20 per massage. Spa packages combining two or three different spa treatments make it well worth taking two to three hours out of a day to spoil yourself.
My recommendation
I recommend this spa for its Moor products, which leave your skin feeling silky smooth and soft. I also felt good, meaning "refreshed" or energized and ready to take on any challenges coming my way. Was it the Moor products or the time out, who knows? What I do know is that I feel great, and it was well worth the time and money spent.
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