Spa terminology

Well-Being in Relais & Châteaux

The origin of the word “Spa” comes from the Latin “Sanitas Per Aquam”, i.e. “Health via Water” the beneficial effects of which are known since antiquity. Well-being and relaxation wait for you in every Relais & Châteaux property with a Spa. Treatments and massages are handled in a soothing and refined setting where you can also enjoy high quality equipment (hammam, sauna, bubbling bath...).

Take time to pamper yourself in an exquisite and relaxing atmosphere. Facials, massages, body treatments, make-up and manicures await you in these beauty centers devoted to preservation of youth and beauty.

Treatment Terminology

Thalassotherapy is the therapeutic use of the beneficial effects of sea water and the maritime climate in a seaside resort.

Treatments loaded in trace elements and revitalizing mineral salts provide energy restoration.

Thermalism dates back to the Roman period, creators of the first thermal baths. The use of natural mineral waters, with therapeutic properties, energizes and relaxes the body. Massages or baths to promote relaxation, enhance therapeutic benefits, and alleviate stress.

Aromatherapy uses plant essences, called essential oils, during massages or baths to promote relaxation, enhance therapeutic benefits, and alleviate stress.

Stone Therapy comes from Ameridians‘customs. This method consists in different oil massages and in the application of various stones on the body’s energy points. This facilitates lymphatic drainage and relaxes muscles.

Fangotherapy consists in the use of warm sea muds, known for their fortifying virtues, in wrapping or local applications. This technique induces total relaxation of muscles and joints, facilitates blood circulation and eliminates toxins.

Reflexology is a manual therapy exerted with pressure on different zones of reflex (feet, hands) corresponding to some organs or parts of the body. Specially recommended to alleviate tensions and improve blood circulation, this technique provides relaxation and well-being.

Shiatsu is a Japanese technique of needle - less acumpuncture achieved by massages on energy points. It corrects imbalances and facilitates relaxation.

Exfoliation consists in the application by circular massaging of products to facilitate the elimination of dead skin cells and to restore suppleness and softness of your skin. It enhances blood circulation.

Wrappings consist of the physical application of natural, nutrient-rich products, which encourages elimination of toxins. Certain wrappings have slimming virtues.