One cannot deny the abundance of lavish spas in Africa, but some (in our opinion) pip the rest! While many spa retreats offer a range of treatments and facilities, the top-class spas focus on complete holistic healing of the body and mind. The reality is that our lives are busy and stressful, and we need to take the time to rejuvenate ourselves. Most holidays are in essence therapeutic – whether it’s simply being out of the office, disconnecting from everyday life, spending time with loved ones or just focusing on yourself. But a hotel that also has an excellent spa can take you one step further in wholly restoring body and mind.
In this blog we give you our picks of the best spa retreats in and around South Africa’s cities, as well as mentioning a runner up in each…
Best Spa in Africa for Sublime Luxury – Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa
If you’ve been fortunate enough to visit Saxon Hotel, Villa & Spa then you’ll know exactly why we’ve chosen it as our winner in this category. This ultra-luxurious spa retreat is in a field of its’ own.
Step into the Saxon Spa, an oasis nestled in its unique surroundings. Cascading water features, a signature fireplace and influences of copper and Himalayan salts set the mood for a restful journey.
This metropolitan spa offers holistic disciplines of a spa journey, giving their guests time to rediscover a healthy and discerning lifestyle.
Runner up – The Oyster Box
Second Runner up – Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa
Interested in a relaxing, spa-infused trip? We’ve been doing this for a while! Contact us and we’ll help you plan the perfect getaway.
Best Spa with a view- Grootbos
The new Grootbos Spa is a remarkable addition to this coastal sanctuary, offering panoramic views across the fynbos landscape to the ocean beyond. This thoughtfully designed space merges seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating an immediate sense of calm.
Also , their treatment menu celebrates the healing properties of indigenous fynbos botanicals, with signature therapies that rejuvenate both body and mind. Guests can enjoy the indoor heated pool, steam room and relaxation areas between treatments, or simply soak in the magnificent vistas.
What makes Grootbos Spa special is its connection to place—each experience is enhanced by the pristine environment and commitment to sustainability. Whether booking a single treatment or a full wellness programme, you’ll leave feeling renewed and connected to the extraordinary Cape landscape.
Runner up– Oyster Box‘s Spa offers views, particularly from the tranquility lounge. The lounge provides a serene space with comfortable lounge chairs overlooking the hotel’s gardens and ponds. Additionally, the spa is situated in a lush, sub-tropical garden setting, just steps from the Indian Ocean and Umhlanga beach
Best for Tropical Island Spa – Hilton Labriz Sillhouette Resort & Spa
The Hilton Labriz Resort is on a stunning island of virgin rainforest on the slopes of Mt Dauban, surrounded by white sandy beaches. The Hilton is the only luxury hotel on this private island s- one of the inner islands of the Seychelles. It offers the perfect romantic and relaxing getaway.
Let your mind escape and your body relax in this beautiful island Spa surrounded by the natural granite boulders of Silhouette Island. Emerge brighter through island-inspired treatments. Their products are inspired by natural ingredients and developed by professionals to awaken your senses.
Runner Up – The Oberoi Mauritius
Best Affordable Spa – Angsana Spa at the Vineyard Hotel & Spa
Although the Vineyard Hotel & Spa is in bustling Cape Town, the hotel is hidden in the leafy suburb of Newlands and set in 6 acres of established gardens with views to Table Mountain. You’ll feel far removed from city life in this peaceful spot… and the indulgent facilities definitely add to the feeling of relaxation! Swim in the large outdoor swimming pool, or visit the well-equipped fitness centre. The Vineyard has an indoor heated pool, healthy eating restaurant, and of course the superb Angsana spa.
A team of carefully trained therapists perform a range of treatments. These include therapeutic massage, facials and a variety of signature treatments using natural ingredients and aromatherapy to rejuvenate body and mind.
It doesn’t stop there however! The Vineyard also offers Hatha and Vinyasa yoga… what more could you ask for?
Runner up: 15 on Orange Hotel & Grotto Spa. With a curated menu that also includes bespoke experiences from our liquid chef at the Spa Bar, The Grotto Spa promises an all-encompassing journey of rejuvenation. They also offer hydrotherapy pools and snug serenity nests. This Spa is also open until late in the evening making it perfect to enjoy after a day of adventure.
Best for Golf & Spa – Fancourt Hotel
Fancourt is commonly recognized as a golfers paradise, but spa-lovers should hold it in equal high esteem. Its exquisite state of the art Spa and Wellness Centre is one of the finest in South Africa after all.
Alleviate stress, and revive your body and mind with the extensive range of skin and body treatments on offer at the spa. Try their aromatically infused therapies for deep cleansing regimes and signature Roma Stone Placement Massage. Amongst the 11 treatment room are a couple’s private treatment room, a hydro therapy room and a shower room. And let’s not forget about the gym, sauna, heated indoor pool and Jacuzzi. It is no wonder the golf to spa ratio is evenly matched!
Runner Up – Arabella Hotel & Spa
Best for City Spa – Librissa Spa at the Mount Nelson
Librisa Spa at the Mount Nelson is a haven of elegance tucked away in this iconic Cape Town hotel. The spa occupies a beautifully restored Victorian building, offering a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary wellness.
The treatment menu features a thoughtful selection of therapies using premium products, from deeply relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials. Guests can enhance their experience with time in the Finnish sauna, plunge pool or the tranquil relaxation area.
What sets Librisa apart is its attention to detail—from the scented welcome ritual to the expert therapists who personalise each treatment. After your spa journey, enjoy a leisurely tea in the garden or by the heated outdoor pool. A visit to Librisa is the perfect complement to any Cape Town stay.
Runner Up – Ellermnan House. A small, highly experienced team of therapists offers a carefully considered menu of skin care therapy and body treatments designed for relaxation, rejuvenation and self-improvement
Best for Winelands Spa- Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren‘s spa is a tranquil sanctuary nestled within this historic Cape Dutch farm’s lush gardens. The Garden Spa offers a perfect balance of traditional and modern treatments, drawing inspiration from the healing properties of plants and herbs grown on the estate.
Treatment rooms overlook a bamboo garden, creating a serene backdrop for their signature massages and facial therapies. Guests can unwind in the steam room, enjoy a dip in the salt room, or experience the benefits of the heated vitality pool.
The spa’s holistic approach extends to its carefully curated product range, featuring natural ingredients harvested from Babylonstoren’s own gardens. Whether booking a single treatment or a full spa day, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated – exactly what a top-quality spa experience should deliver!
Runner Up – Lanzerac Hotel & Spa. Spa-goers will be greeted by the indoor heated swimming pool, enticing you to enjoy leisurely laps and a bubbling Jacuzzi. The sense of serenity is elevated within the eight therapy rooms, where guests can select from a range of treatment options.
Second Runner up: Spier Hotel. The brand-new Spa and Cape Herbal Bath House opens onto a private apothacary garden and pool – a tranquil sanctuary to sooth and restore body and mind. Facilities include a mindful movement studio, 10 treatment rooms, mani-pedi station, infrared sauna, steam and cold therapy rooms, and a resident phytotherapist.
“Best Spa Retreats in Africa” was written by Cedarberg Africa
Cedarberg Africa is a travel and safari company specializing in Southern and East African tailor-made itineraries. As we have special rates with all the hotels and game lodges, booking through us will cost no more than booking direct, and sometimes less. So our expertise and knowledge comes at no extra cost to you!
Feel free to contact us if you want us to plan a trip that will revitalise your body and mind for you!
