Nothing can be more luxurious, refreshing or pleasurable than being pampered in a sumptuous spa. Except perhaps being pampered ‘al fresco’ in the middle of the Namib Desert. If desert air and awe inspiring views sounds appealing, then Namibia may be the destination for you.
Described as Africa’s harsh paradise, Namibia boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery. Slightly more than half the size of Alaska, Namibia is located in the south of Western Africa, bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zambia and the South Atlantic Ocean.
The recent trend of spa holidays has not escaped Namibia. It is experiencing a change in the style of holiday on offer. Traditionally known for safaris and adventure holidays, there are now a handful of luxury spas opening around the country.
Namibia is vast and driving is the first choice of transport in the country. To reach some of the spas, a long drive through some of the world’s most stunning scenery is required. But what better way to relax and shake off the dust than a massage or soak in an outdoor Jacuzzi in the middle of the desert, with views of the largest sand dunes in the world. For those of you who don’t have the time or inclination for that spectacular drive, the luxury spas & lodges have their own landing strips and they can easily arrange flights from the Capitol Windhoek.
Le Mirage Desert Lodge and Spa
T: +264 (0) 63 293 293; E: res@leadinglodges.com
W: www.lemiragelodge.com
The Namib Desert is known to be the driest place on earth and is host to the awe-inspiring sand dunes at Sosussvlei. It is slap bang in the middle of nowhere, 186 miles (300k) from the closest main road. At 984 feet (300 meters) the rich orange dunes are the tallest in the world and one of the most stunning sights. Le Mirage, like a Hollywood set for a desert movie, is a Moorish style fortress set in this harsh desert climate. It is situated 21 km from Sesriem, the entrance gate to the Namib Naukluft Park and Sossusvlei. The large 27-room resort is an oasis that sits on the rippling desert floor flanked by deep red dunes and craggy sand coloured mountains. It’s a welcoming sight after a long hot drive under the hot Namibian sun.
Le Mirage hosts a wellness spa specialising in various relaxing and stress-relieving treatments. There’s a long menu offering traditional spa services from Thai and deep tissue massage to stone and Natural Energy massage. Hydrotherapy, special salt baths, pedicures, manicures and facials are available. Guest’s may also treat themselves to the open air-pool and Jacuzzi set in a large courtyard, with palm tress sheltering them from the hot desert climate.
The most rare and special type of oil massage on offer is the synchronised massage (Okuthulwa Kaantu Yeli Oshita), a friction massage performed by two therapists who work in synchrony, massaging your body from head to toe with herbalised oils. They massage according to the circulatory channels and marma points for 60 minutes. Oils are chosen according to one’s body type. This treatment is useful for detoxification, loss of skin lustre, sleeplessness, fatigue, anxiety, eczema, and nervousness.
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All information was correct at time of publishing.