British wellness icon Champneys makes historic Mediterranean debut in Marbella

Prestigious UK wellness brand Champneys has opened its first spa outside Britain at the five-star Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club on the Costa del Sol. Founded in 1925, the company brings nearly a century of expertise in combining cutting-edge therapies with traditional spa culture to Spain’s Andalucia region.

The slow luxury philosophy meets British tradition.

Guests discover a smooth alignment with the resort’s “slow luxury” ethos, emphasising quality and depth over haste. Exclusive treatments include the signature “Marea de Tranquilidad” (Tide of Tranquillity) massage, created solely for this location. Fluid manual techniques deliver deep regeneration, making the experience completely unique worldwide. Nicola Eager, commercial director at Champneys, described the launch as a dream realised. “This spa represents everything we stand for: thoughtful holistic wellness, expert therapies and restorative journeys,” she said.

Thermal facilities promise profound rejuvenation

Guests enjoy a centrepiece thermal area featuring two pools. An indoor 19-metre pool offers hydrotherapy jets, a waterfall and a counter-current system to boost circulation and ease muscle tension. A larger 40-square-metre warm pool invites gentle exercise and pure relaxation. Complementary elements include a cold plunge pool at 15°C, a jacuzzi, a traditional sauna, a hammam, sensory showers and a classic bucket shower. Deliberate contrasts between heat and cold harness proven benefits for muscle recovery, improved blood flow, immune support and mental clarity.

Six treatment rooms complete the sanctuary

Additional facilities encompass six treatment rooms, including a couples’ suite for shared experiences. The spa integrates perfectly with Iconic Luxury Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio, which features properties such as Cliveden House, Chewton Glen and Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido.

Gran Marbella itself welcomed guests in summer 2024 as the group’s debut Andalusian property. Jeroen Nettekoven, general manager, highlighted the partnership’s significance. This opening goes to show commitment to meaningful, restorative moments while elevating Marbella’s growing appeal for health-conscious travellers.

Bookings for all Champneys Spa treatments at Gran Marbella Resort & Beach Club are available via the resort website. granmarbellaresort.com