There are only so many 16-hour workdays a man can take before stress begins to leave its mark. Which is why when I had the chance to try out the brand-new Spier Spa in Stellenbosch, I went in with high expectations and left feeling completely reset.
A Sanctuary in the Winelands
The reimagined Spier Hotel opened its doors in March 2025 and its crown jewel is undoubtedly the new Spier Spa. Tucked away in a serene courtyard beside an apothecary garden, the spa blends modern luxury with natural grounding. Indigenous fynbos gardens surround the space and a plunge pool sits waiting for those who want to dip between treatments. From the moment you step in, there is an undeniable sense of calm.
READ MORE: 8 Mindfulness Exercises to Beat Stress, Spark Motivation and Feel Better
My Tried & Tested Experience: The Riverstone Massage
I booked the Riverstone Massage, which turned out to be more than just a treatment. It was a wellness ritual. Smooth river stones, sourced directly from Spier’s flowing waters, are gently heated and used to ease muscle inflammation, enhance circulation and dissolve deep tension.
The heat seeps into sore muscles like therapy in motion, while the grounding energy of the stones brings a sense of connection to the earth itself. For me, it was as much about physical recovery as it was about mindfulness. It was the perfect antidote to stress and the demands of daily life. By the end, my shoulders were lighter, my mind clearer and my body in sync.
Beyond Massage: A Holistic Wellness Hub
While my treatment left me deeply impressed, Spier Spa offers much more. Its Cape Herbal Bath House is a signature experience designed for detoxification and deep relaxation. Think fresh snowbush exfoliation, aromatic herbal baths, scalp massage and a nourishing shea butter treatment, all complemented by Spier’s organic wine and farm-fresh platters.
The spa also features an upper-level mindful movement studio for yoga and Pilates, an infrared sauna, a steam room and even cold therapy for those serious about recovery. Treatments use toxin-free products crafted from farm-grown botanicals in collaboration with Spier’s resident phytotherapist, tailoring each experience to your personal wellness needs.
READ MORE: Cold Water Therapy Benefits: Everything You Need to Know
The Verdict
Spier Spa is more than a luxury add-on to the Winelands. It is a fully realised wellness destination where nature, science and relaxation come together. After trying and testing the Riverstone Massage, I can confidently say this is one of the best ways to reset body and mind. Whether you are chasing recovery after tough training sessions or just looking to unplug, Spier Spa delivers an experience that lingers long after you have left.
