Asia Spa Sweden: Best Spa of 2013

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May 1, 2013

The cold wind rolling in from the sea is enough to make your eyes water. April it may be, but winter still lingers in the shade and in the sea breeze. Faint sunshine is trying to break through the dark clouds along the horizon, and the sharp spring light gives Varberg’s medieval fortress an ominous look. It may sound dreary but from where I am standing it serves as a delicious contrast to the steam rising up from the Japanese-inspired hot springs. I’m on a tour of Asia Spa Sweden in the coastal town of Varberg, Sweden, and in here it is amazingly simple to forget about the outside world.

My "Scandinavian Zen" Experience at Asia Spa Sweden

‘Are you OK taking the stairs? ‘ Spa-manager Anna Nilsson asks me as we head on up towards the top floors. The hotel was built in 1902, with the architect taking his inspiration from France. Meanwhile, the spa which now extends across the top floors has taken its inspiration from the Far East. Being shown around the boutique style rooms, the restaurant and eventually the top floor spa I get a sense of wandering through a beautiful maze, each turn revealing something new; beautiful furniture, a roof terrace, a stunning view.

Located in the sea side town of Varberg on the Swedish west coast Asia Spa is honoring a long standing spa tradition. Varberg has been a spa destination since the 19th century, and people have travelled here to “take the waters” ever since. The classic building housing the hotel and spa is situated right in the heart of the town and looks out over the town square and the medieval fortress and beach promenade dominating the coastline. The sea is a vital part of the town’s identity and makes a magnificent backdrop for the spa facilities.

Some days I just look out the windows and think that I must have the most beautiful place of work in the world.

Anna smiles and I can truly understand why. There is a distinct sense of pride when talking to any of the staff members, and since being awarded the Spa Star Award for Best Swedish spa 2013 earlier this year, they have yet another reason to feel proud. Anna admits the award was a lovely surprise, but it is clear that they believe in the work that is being carried out.

The concept is really a simple one; this is meant to be a little bit of paradise, a place to unwind and allow all of your senses to harmonize. As you enter you are asked to leave your mobile phone behind and change in to your black and white kimono-like robe. Every step on the way to relaxation is well thought through, and intended to gradually bring you a sense of complete harmony.

Before you head towards the treatment rooms, saunas or hot springs you begin with a traditional Japanese washing ritual. Sat on a wooden stool you should soap and rinse your body, using circular motions towards your heart. This initial step should be allowed to take time, in order for the body and mind to begin its journey towards tranquility. Once cleansed you may wander deeper into the spa, perhaps towards the vitality pool by the panoramic windows on the top floor. The pool has a constant temperature of 30-degrees Celsius and contains different massage designed to relax tense or sore muscles. Stepping out onto the glassed terrace you find the hot springs. The windows are always kept open, weather allowing, and the cool breeze becomes a welcome contrast to the soothing, hot water.

Looking out you can take in the full view of the coast line and Varberg’s fortress. In this section you can also find rooms for rest. Perhaps in one of the hammocks strung up from the ceiling by the vitality pool? It is not unusual for guests to fall asleep here, the sound of water constantly present in the background and the abundance of natural light streaming in through the panoramic windows.

I sit down to talk to one of Asia spa’s treatment and massage therapists, also named Anna. The spa offers a broad variety of treatments, examples ranging from the ever popular aroma therapy massage to a detox spa ritual, where a cleansing full body peeling is followed by a seaweed and mud wrap, designed to draw out toxins and thoroughly cleanse the skin. The facials are all done using the products by Swiss brand Phytobiodermie. The brand has developed its products and treatments based on Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, fitting in with the philosophy of Asia Spa. When asked which treatments she would personally recommend for a bride and groom to be, Anna immediately mentions two different facials. For the bride: The colourlift facial. This non-evasive treatment lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes and will give your face a natural lift; the positive effects can last for days.

We always focus on one half of the face first, that way the guest can really see the effects for her or himself.

Anna explains as she shows me the technique and the trademarked machine being used. As for the groom Anna recommends the Phyto Man Facial. It’s a 60 minutes long treatment, especially adapted to refresh your skin. As I walk back down the grand staircase of the hotel I am filled with a sense of calm. The work carried out here is done quietly and without any pretenses. The philosophy and idea of the Spa is upheld through constant hard work by passionate employees, without any fuzz or loud proclamations. A sense of serenity is easily found, be it while meditating in one of the beautiful rooms, or while pampered with an Ayryveda-inspired massage.

Asia spa calmly set out to create a little bit of heaven by the windy Swedish west coast. Based on the awards and the high praise it appears they have succeeded, and the future continues to look bright.

Asia Spa is located in Varberg, Sweden.

Treatments can only be booked in combination with a stay at the Spa.

To book, call: +46 340 69 0108 or email: [email protected]