Da Vinci's legacy balance spa is proof that ultimate relaxation is closer than you think

You may be hard pressed to find a modicum of calm and relaxation in the bustle of the big city (especially if that city is Johannesburg) but thankfully, a trip to the Da Vinci Legacy Balance Spa makes it feel like tranquillity is never too far away.

Tucked away in the centre of Africa’s richest square mile, the Legacy Balance Spa situated in the Da Vinci Hotel and Suites - which is also home to the new luxury shopping mecca, Ilifa - is a true oasis and escape from the stresses of the city.

Upon entering the spa, it feels like the hooting cars and city sounds seem to fade away as the spa’s serene colour palette of white and black, soft lighting, warm, friendly therapists and soothing, encapsulating music welcome you in. A unique trait the Da Vinci Legacy Balance Spa has is that, though you may see other clients at the spa, it truly feels like you’re the only one in there and on the therapist’s priority list.  The attention to detail and attentive care is really a breath of fresh air.

THE TREATMENT

Self-care should know no limits so if you're looking for a truly relaxing and therapeutic experience (and you have about two hours to spare) make sure to book yourself in for the QMS Signature Treatment.  A truly relaxing and detoxifying treatment, the QMS Signature journey includes all the revitalising benefits of a full body exfoliation and a bespoke facial using QMS products in conjunction with ceramic tools to boost the skin’s own detox system. 

The QMS Signature Treatment starts off with preparing the skin for a full body exfoliation by way of steam in the rasul chamber that will help to open up the pores of the skin and prepare the skin to absorb all the products that will be used during the treatment. After being shown to the change rooms to put on a plush bathrobe, slippers and disposable underwear, you are taken to the steam room and left there to relax in the eucalyptus-scented room, complete with a jacuzzi, infused waters and a continental spread of fruit platters, nuts and muffins for you to enjoy.  After steaming, let the therapist know you’re done and she will direct you to the treatment room to continue with the body exfoliation and facial.

You might expect the usual granular body scrub to be used for the body exfoliation and may be dreading a messy exfoliation process that will require you to head to the showers to remove the product but you will be pleasantly surprised to know that this treatment uses a chemical exfoliator pack with enzymes that will help slough off body’s dead skin cells but can be left on the skin – no rinse off required.  This allows you to completely relax and enjoy the whole treatment without being disturbed midway. You may experience a slight tingling on the skin while the exfoliator is being applied but it’s not a tingling that carries any discomfort or pain. The therapist applies the exfoliator using long, sweeping movements that double up as a very relaxing full body massage – so don’t be surprised if you find yourself catching up on a few zzz’s in the process.

Once the body exfoliation is complete, the QMS facial is done starting with a cleansing and gentle exfoliation.  The skin’s hydration is boosted with an algae peel-off mask that is applied on the face, covering the eyes and mouth, leaving only the nostrils open and left to set on the face into a rubbery consistency before being peeled off.  Before applying this mask, the therapist will check if you experience any feelings of claustrophobia before proceeding with this step.  The facial ends off with a collagen-rich serum oil and a hydro-foam mask that acts as a super hydrating moisturiser.

MUST-TRY EXTRAS

When visiting the Da Vinci Legacy Balance Spa, we recommend you linger longer and enjoy some extra spoils.  Give your hands and feet some TLC by adding a manicure or pedicure at the end of your signature treatment, complete with a soak, exfoliating scrub and a bonus hand or foot massage for the softest hands and feet.

SPA AT A GLANCE:

Where it is: Situated in the centre of Sandton, Johannesburg in the luxurious Da Vinci Hotel & Suites

Recommended treatment: QMS Signature Treatment combined with a pedicure or manicure

Ask for: Spa therapist, Veronicca

Contact: For more information about Da Vinci Legacy Balance Spa, visit legacybalance.co.za

Price: QMS Signature Treatment R1 300 for 2 hours