For centuries the French Alps have been home to some of the most progressive and well-renowned spas and thermal baths in the world. Originally touted as a high-altitude destination to remedy a range of ailments, modern day spa facilities now offer an indulgent alternative to time spent on the pistes. As Margo Touchebœuf, manager of the Spa Kinabalu in Les Gets explains, a break at a spa allows you to take a moment of relaxation, just for yourself.
“Despite their name, ‘winter holidays’ are often a source of fatigue and stress! The organisation of days on the mountain, especially if you’re travelling as a family, can be intense. In these situations, I always recommend a Rotura volcano treatment, which lasts 90 minutes and wards off stress and tiredness. A self-heating wrap remineralises the body, you’ll feel restored and energised when I’ve finished.
We use the Gemology brand here at Spa Kinabalu, which I selected because they’re a pioneer in mineral spa products. This French brand uses trace elements extracted from precious and semi-precious stones, the end result is a unique texture that can be used every day if you wish. Combined with hot stones during a massage or facial, the results are almost magical!
During the course of this winter, we’ll plan exclusive packages for special dates such as Valentine’s Day. You can expect to be pampered and cared for within the spa, which also features a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. Such facilities are free to use for those who book an hour treatment with one of our therapists, providing the perfect apres-ski after a day in the mountains.
Spa Kinabalu is open throughout the winter season between 10am and 7.30pm Sunday to Friday and between 4pm and 8pm on Saturdays. You’ll find us within the warm and welcoming Kinabalu residence in the centre of Les Gets and you can reserve your treatments online HERE. Alternatively, if you have any questions you can email me in French or English at spakinabalu@alpine-residences.fr or call +33 (0) 9 75 12 54 96. We look forward to sharing a moment of wellness with you.”
More Wellness…
Our valley is home to some excellent spas, treatment rooms and relaxation therapies, here are some of our favourites…
Le Dahu Spa & Wellness Centre – Morzine
Open to hotel guests and non-residents, massage rituals and exclusive treatments are on the menu using the organic Avril Spa brand, guaranteeing a brush with nature. You’ll also find a swimming pool, sauna and hammam as well as a whirlpool with stunning views over the entire Morzine valley. Open 10am – 4pm, advance booking is necessary, robes and slippers are provided. Email info@dahu.com, call +33 (0) 4 50 75 92 92 or visit dahu.com for more details.
Little Wild – Morzine
In her mountain-side treatment room, Carrie administers holistic massage skincare and energy therapies that will bring real joy, balance and magic to your ski holiday. You’ll feel the tension leave your body and leave with a calm, rested soul. Little Wild experiences are perfectly tailored to you, there’s even a Divine Mama Massage that combines massage and reflexology for expecting and new mums. Head to littlewildspace.com to view the full treatment menu and book your Little Wild experiences online.
The Spa at Mil8 – Avoriaz
Available exclusively to hotel residents and spanning several levels of this iconic hotel, the wellness area at Mil8 overlooks the resort’s snow-capped peaks. There’s an outdoor infinity pool that will leave you breathless, a sauna, cardio room and massage and relaxation area. All spaces are glass-fronted, putting you in the centre of nature. Treatments include indulgent massages and revitalising facials with products from local brand Snö. Head to hotelmil8.com for details.
The Eyebrow Bar by Laura – Morzine
Laura specialises in the latest brow, lash and facial treatments, all of which are professionally administered in her cosy treatment room in Essert Romand or via her mobile service. On the menu you’ll find lash botox, derma-planing, henna brows, brow lamination and lash extensions, plus LED light therapy mask treatments. Take the afternoon off skiing and pamper your face! Book online at facebook.com/theeyebrowbarbylaura, email browbarlaura@gmail.com or call +33 (0) 6 48 60 05 42.
The Spa at Neige et Roc – Les Prodains
Open to hotel guests and non-residents and set in a tranquil spot, mid-way between Morzine and Avoriaz, inside you’ll find a Swedish bath heated to 40° as well as a sauna and relaxation space. You’ll love the cosy treatment cabins where both facial and body therapies are on the menu, the hot futons are the perfect place to spend a moment. All treatments and wellness packages are performed using a bio French brand and are based on the evolving seasons. The spa is open seven days a week, it’s easily accessible using the free ski bus and you can book via the hotel website at neige-roc.com or call +33 (0) 4 50 79 03 21.
Séréni-Cimes Spa – Les Gets
This award-winning spa in the centre of the village offers a multi-sensory experience with a never-ending list of facilities and treatments. You’ll find a steam room, foot bath, meditation sauna and seven individual treatment rooms, plus a herbal infusion room with its own open fireplace. Treatments are available Monday to Saturday by appointment only with slippers and robes provided. There’s also an infinity pool, jacuzzi, sauna and hammam for hotel guests to enjoy. View the treatment menu and book online at spa@hotel-marmotte.com or call +33 (0) 4 50 75 80 33.
