November: The Sanctuary
Thursday 1st November 2007 by Elizabeth Richards
Feeling in need of some R&R? Is a bit of 'me time' just what the doctor ordered? Or are you after a gift for someone who has everything?
A spa break, whether it's for an hour of an evening or a long weekend away, always does the trick so tune in monthly for our resident Spa Expert's pick of the very best spas selling their experiences online.
 For November, The Sanctuary got our vote.
Where is it?
12 Floral Street, Covent Garden, London
WC2E 9DH
www.TheSanctuary.co.uk 
The line
A ladies-only day spa in the heart of Covent Garden.
The scene
Tucked discreetly down a cobbled side street, a simple glass door is the only outward clue to The Sanctuary’s existence. Inside and upstairs, this world famous spa offers an enormous treatment menu to complement the luxurious facilities which include steam rooms, sauna and samarium, effervescent spa pools, a warm lounge and Thai seating area (perfect for flicking through magazines or socialising quietly).
There’s also the atrium pool with its famous swing and the utterly decadent Koi carp lounge. Keep fit junkies will love the 13.5 metre exercise pool – an uncommon treat in a city centre spa.
Who goes?
Mothers and daughters, groups of friends, Londoners seeking respite from city life and tourists who love the superb central location and relaxed vibe.
The menu
Skincare and pre-natal as well as body, hand and foot treatments including aromatherapy, scrubs, bathing rituals, wraps, mani-pedis, Rasul mud treatments and dry flotation.
The names
The spa uses products from its own professional range with this autumn seeing the introduction of a revolutionary Pro-Collagen skincare line.
Signature treatment
The Sensual Mande Lular, £90 for 85 minutes. Traditionally given to Indonesia’s royal brides-to-be, this skin softening treatment includes exfoliation and Balinese body and scalp massage as well as the application of a nourishing and sweetly-scented Mande Lular cream to moisturise the skin and relax the mind.
We tried
The brand new Oxygen and Collagen facial, £90 for 85 minutes. Conducted by an enormously friendly and totally knowledgeable therapist, this treatment opened with a full cleanse and exfoliation with special attention given to the eye area.
A collagen serum was applied – with small blasts of oxyen delivering this to the epidermis of the skin – before the skin was treated to a hydration fluid and further blasts. The collagen mask and oxygen breathing mask combo that followed was remarkably non-claustrophobic and a stress-busting arm, neck and shoulder massage was the final – and very welcome – element.
The results
Fine lines were immediately less visible while skin felt plump, radiant and well-hydrated for at least ten days afterwards.
Special mention
The Sanctuary is the first spa in the world to introduce low frequency sound wave therapy beds (handmade to specifications issued by the Spa Manager) so don’t miss these in the newly designed Sleep Retreat. These magic beds aid relaxation while helping to reduce muscle inflammation, easing stress, boosting the immune system and improving blood pressure and circulation.
Food and drink
Set in what was once the rehearsal hall for the Royal Ballet, the spa restaurant is managed by Leith’s and offers a wide range of modern dishes along with fine wines and champagnes. Drinks and snacks are also available in the lounge.
Gift vouchers
Spa days start from £67 (Wednesday and Thursday evenings from £45) with treatments starting from £30 for an express manicure. Book everything online in advance or choose from indulgent gift packages, also available from the website with same day despatch where possible.
Visit www.TheSanctuary.co.uk
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