World renowned for it’s the Gary Player designed golf courses and their multi-award winning spa (Fancourt Spa was a winner in the 2012 World Luxury Hotels Spa Awards and a finalist in the 2011 Les Nouvelles Esthetique South African Spa Awards), Fancourt is set on 613 hectares of mountains and indigenous forests.
I had last been at Fancourt 20 years ago and was immediately struck by the changes. The Manor House, built in 1859, had been the main hotel and only accommodation. I recall the traditional colonial style decor with large leather wingback chairs, the traditional Gentleman’s Library with antiquarian books and the bar keeping a large selection of whisky, cognac and liqueurs. The staff attire could have been straight out of a 19th century Victorian Country house. Fancourt today is far more relaxed and has evolved to become a family resort with facilities catering for the whole family.
The Manor house is now dwarfed by the impressive new Fancourt Hotel, which offers 115 guest rooms, state of the art Conference Centre, ballroom, 4 restaurants, Kids’ club and Teen lounge, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and the spectacular 5 star Spa at Fancourt complete with and an impressive Roman bath, fitness centre, sauna, steam room, tepidarium, cold plunge pool, hair salon and relaxation area.
The Spa reception area has magnificent views over the golf course. The treatment menu focuses on spa rituals, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the various hydrotherapy facilities before or after their treatments. Herbal teas are complimentary for spa guests and are on offer in the reception throughout the day
My treatment room was infused with the scent of fresh Frangipani petals which were placed in a bowl under the treatment bed (this is such a delightful extra little touch that I fail to understand why so few spa’s think about it). On meeting my Therapist, Chantal, I was impressed by her knowledge and enthusiasm for the products. After chatting with the spa manager I learnt that Chantal the most sought-after therapist at Fancourt and after spending an hour in her capable hands I completely understood why.
My spa ritual began with a stimulating Body Brush exfoliation followed by a full body massage incorporating stretching movements to stimulate the lymph and blood flow throughout the body. African Potato Oil, which contains immune boosting and healing properties was used for the body massage and for my décolleté and face a soothing and hydrating blend of Rose & Neroli serum was applied.
Fancourt has long been a favourite resort destination for both international and local golfers and their families. Fancourt has succeeded in constantly re-inventing themselves to keep abreast of new trends whilst still maintaining that personal touch and 5 star excellent services throughout the resort.
