A holiday by the sea can be extremely rejuvenating and if there is a spa you can head to, well it simply makes the experience even more revitalizing. I was lucky to experience this on a recent visit to the beautiful Intercontinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort that is home to the tranquil spa -Amrtam by Esencza. Located on the beach front, the resort is itself what a holiday is all about – a time to relax. The spa, Amrtam by Esencza located on the ground level takes this concept further and does full justice to the word ‘Amrtam’, meaning the nectar of life. This is a space that brings together the soothing elements of nature for restoring body, mind and soul.

Decor Mantra

A large spa this is spread over a 15608 sq. ft. space in the eastern half of the structure of the resort. It includes a delineated male and female area split by a domed greeting area, lounge and retail. There are seven suites with an adjoining private courtyard that offer guests an array of body treatments as well as outdoor therapy and activities. The palette is locally inspired and based on four natural elements – amber, pearl, gold and platinum. These reflective tones are applied throughout the spa using for example copper sheeting, brass fixtures and inlays, gold and iridescent mosaics and silver leaf. These are used in a controlled manner in order to create a distinct identify for this state of the art Spa. Geometric patterns are also repeated throughout, consistent with the general architectural and interior design approach. The comfort factor, privacy and the articulation of spaces have been the strong motivation to the design. Soft indirect lighting, large upholstered relaxation platforms, dramatic axial views, theatrical circular hot tub areas, vaulted wet rooms ensure that guests are taken on a memorable journey of well being and bliss.

Spa Treatment

The Amrtam Spa is based on the concept of sustainability and natural & organic that is reflected in all its therapies and offerings. Treatments incorporate products from internationally acclaimed UK Spa brand ‘Aromatherapy Associates’ and marine seaweed based treatments from renowned French brand ‘Thalion’. A short form is required to be filled where you can specify the kind of pressure you need as well as if you are on any medication. I am giving a ginger honey cold drink before I start and the spa decor is calming. After reading through the extensive menu I zeroed in on the Candle Massage Therapy offered for durations of 60 min and 90 min and priced at Rs.4000 and Rs. 5500 respectively. This is a unique massage where the massage candle melts into a warm sumptuous massage oil. This warm oil of natural butters is drizzled over the skin for a wonderful massage treatment that melts away tension and nourishes the skin. Recommended if you have dry skin like mine, the entire experience is blissful to say in the least. My therapist Kinley from Bhutan starts with a foot ritual using lemon grass known for its anti fungal properties. A quick cleansing with mineral salts and I am soon lying on my stomach for a massage that is deeply relaxing. Using her thumbs and fingers with synchronised precision, Kinley soon starts massaging every part of my body, releasing a lot of tension from the muscle joints. The process is seamless and my therapist ensures that I am comfortable at all times, constantly checking if the room temperature and pressure is conducive. I am also asked if I would like a face and head massage and the oil leaves my skin feeling soft and supple. A relaxing shower and I feel great while I sip my hot green tea at the end of the session. So are you ready for a costal spa experience?

Fact File

Name of The Spa: Amrtam by Escenza

Established: October 2015

Founders: Owned by Adyar Gate Hotels Ltd and managed by Escenza Wellness

Architect: Collin Vergnaud Pty Ltd

Area/Size: 15,608 sq. ft.

Treatment rooms: 7

Number of estheticians: 7

Signature Treatment: Aromatherapy Associates

Timings: 9am – 8pm from Sunday-Thursday and 9am – 9pm on Friday-Saturday

Contact: +91 44 71720101

Address: 212, East Coast Road, Nemelli Village, Perur Post Office, Kanchipuram District, Chennai – 603 104, Tamil Nadu, India

Website: www.intercontinental.com/

This story appeared in the Feb-17 issue of Stylespeak magazine here: SS Feb 17 Amrtam by Escenza

Read my other stories on this resort here, here and here.