A few weeks ago I got to try out a new spa in Belfast. Located in the newly refurbished Olympia Leisure Centre in Belfast, is an affordable day spa ‘Spa Experience’. It’s the first boutique spa of its kind in Northern Ireland, offering thermal spa facilities and specialist treatments, including massages and facials. I’ve had some stellar spa experiences in the past few years, which have included The Merchant, Galgorm and Slieve Donard. Whilst I wasn’t expecting a 5* experience this time round, I had my fingers crossed for a lovely relaxing few hours.
I took myself off to the spa in the late morning. A few hours away from baby Rose felt strange but nice. I was alone with my thoughts…it’s been a while! The Olympia Leisure Centre is located in Boucher Road, a popular shopping district just outside the city centre. It’s very convenient to get to as it’s right beside the motorway.
As soon as I entered the spa area of the leisure centre, I was met by a lovely lady on reception, who provided me with a bag containing a grey robe, flipflops and towel. The changing room was small with plenty of lockers and three large showers and a vanity area with hairdryers. So far, so spa! The only thing missing from a luxurious spa retreat is complimentary shower gel.
Once I was in my swimsuit I was shown around the spa area, which was light, spacious and finished off to a very high standard. The plunge pool takes pride of place in the centre, with steps leading up to it. Around the pool is various steam and sauna rooms, specialist showers and heated relaxation beds. There was also complimentary water (infused with tea and fruit) and a bowl of apples. I made a bee-line for the pool and stayed there almost half an hour, pondering life and such. I had a brief time in one of the sauna rooms and then relaxed on the heated beds with water and an apple.
Before I knew it, it was time for my massage. I’d asked to try the specialist body treatment La Sultane De Saba Ayurvedic Shirodhara, described as “This is the ultimate full body holistic treatment, which will take you on a journey of the spices”. In basic terms this was a full body massage using essential oils. My idea of bliss! Camilia was my masseuse and she was brilliant. She gave me a firm massage, which is just what I like as I have always got a sore back and neck. I also have quite dry skin so I felt the oils doing me good…and they smelled amazing! It was all so incredibly relaxing. The cost of this treatment is £89 for 90 minutes.
Needless to say, I’d love to make a return visit. I’ll be recommending the facility to my friends and family. It would be a great place to go for some alone time, or with your partner/friend for a relaxing catch-up together.
Disclosure: I wrote this review after a complimentary visit to Spa Experience, Belfast. All words and opinions are my own.
