A luxurious new spa experience awaits guests at Sun City Resort, with the launch of the Royal Spa at The Palace, which opened its doors in November.

A first for the five-star hotel, 12 bedrooms in The Palace were transformed by interior architects David Muirhead & Associates into a spa which is deeply rooted in Africa and lends itself to a quiet sense of privacy and tranquillity. Surrounded by a forest of trees, lush green garden and pond, it is these outdoor elements which Muirhead chose to celebrate and use as the focal point, along with selected artworks.

“The spa celebrates a clean simple aesthetic that is both peaceful and contemporary, with walls clad in designs that celebrate the sense of peace in the space and echo the essence of Africa,” said Muirhead.

The finishes of neutral marbles and natural timbers merge in simplicity, with subtle lighting toned down to set a relaxing mood. "It's quiet luxury at its best and very much about pampering the mind body and soul in indulgent peace.”

Just like every other service at the Palace of The Lost City, personalisation is key and the 12 therapists – some of whom are employed from local communities – are highly trained.

“From our staff’s hands on excellence, to the use of prestigious brands such as Thalgo La Beautè Marine, iSClinical and Davines, wellness is the cornerstone of our approach,” said Debbie Merdjan CEO of Camelot Spa

Leading African spa group, The Camelot Spa Group brought their years of expertise to the fore consulting on the spa on behalf of Sun International, designing the facilities, staffing it and curating the treatment menu. The spa has six individual treatment rooms and three palatial suites with hydrobaths and sensation showers, for those looking for a more private oasis.

The Royal Spa is the first in South Africa to offer the prestigious Swiss Bellefontaine anti-ageing skincare product range, which will arrive soon.

Guests can indulge in a traditional Middle Eastern cleansing and self-exfoliating rituals in the Rasul Chamber, ideal for groups of friends who can chat as they apply Thalgo marine algae mud to remineralise the skin. “This social activity is not merely a pampering experience but is also great for wellness as it is results driven.” The Himalayan Crystal Salt Sauna is another detoxifying heat therapy treatment experience.

Treatments range from massages, to body wraps, skincare therapy and an Advanced Skin Clinic which has up-to-the minute, world-leading skincare technologies including Thalgo iBeauty instrumental cosmetics, the Fire & Ice Resurfacing Facial, Hydro Infusion Therapy, Hydro Cool Treatments and LED light therapy, as well as basic ‘beauty touches’ for waxing and tinting.

Inclusive in nature, the Royal Spa Kids Menu offers nails, pedicures, massages and facials for pampering little royals.

The spa, which is open to all Sun City residents across its various hotel offerings, boasts the forest lounge pause area for pre-and post-treatment consultations as well as a relaxation zone which leads onto an outdoor deck, with loungers and tables for dining.

Spa cuisine, inspired by healthy living, includes design to complement all therapies and is delicious yet indulgent – “after all, what would a spa experience be without a glass of bubbly,” asks Marlene Padayachee, Spa Manager. The menu includes tempting yet healthy salads, light meals and desserts designed by The Palace chef to suit all tastes including vegetarians and vegans.

Legendary golfer Gary Player has already enjoyed a haircut in the adjacent Royal Salon, which offers seven styling stations and an area for manicures and pedicures.

“Everyone deserves to be treated like royalty, and our bespoke spa experience at Royal Spa promises you just that,” said Sun City General Manager Brett Hoppé. “We are excited to be open to cater for the rush of festive season guests and trust that this latest upgrade to the Resort will please our regulars as well as newcomers.”