Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Belgium

Following an £8.9 million (€10.5 million) investment, the Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, has presented a stunning, light-filled urban oasis in the famed Belgian city.

Five historic buildings, including a former monastery and hospital, and a listed botanical garden have been transformed into a five-star hotel with contemporary wellness offerings at the Botanic Health Spa and Health Club.

Set over three levels, the spa was designed by spa designer Heinz Schletterer with interiors by Maryse Odeurs and Rebecca Verstraete.

Spa consultant Claudia Reichenberger developed the concept for the spa with a holistic focus that combines Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and European medicine alongside a research-driven approach to impact the cell-ageing process – the core philosophy of the spa’s Mylife Changer.

“As a practitioner, I see the effects of our lifestyles becoming more and more evident in physical and emotional complaints,” says spa director Xavier Le Clef. “Only a holistic approach can offer lasting solutions.”

Monastic medicine

Using herbs and botanicals for both preventative and restorative healthcare, the team draws on the rich history of monastic medicine from the property’s past and its botanic garden. Retreats and workshops promote spiritual growth, while yoga, meditation, breathwork and mindfulness classes are also offered.

The spa’s facilities include ten treatment rooms in addition to an 18m panoramic swimming pool, a glass-lined Finnish sauna with guided herbal infusions, a Kneipp walk and an ice fountain. Himalayan salt stone and infrared textile saunas are accompanied by foot reflexology basins, a whirlpool and botanical shower experiences, with a herb and vitamin bar and bistro completing the offer.

The Botanic Health Club houses the hotel gym and private members club with a suite of the latest Technogym equipment. Coaching and personal training is conducted by director of sports Ingmar Harthoorn.

BEHIND THE PROJECT

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, Belgium www.botanicantwerp.be

Spa size: 1,000sqm

Product partners: Jane Iredale, KOH Cosmetics

Spa suppliers: Dauwco – Francis Dauwe, SPA4, Technogym, SuitUpNow, De Witte Lietaer, RKF Luxury Linen, Concept (Shiji Group), Dormakaba, MyLife Changer, Physiodermie