The writings of the ancient Greeks contain descriptions of bathing practices which modern spas follow today. Small bathtubs, wash basins, and foot baths were used for personal cleanliness. Greeks from as early as the 2nd century BC built public baths and showers within their gymnasiums, which were used for relaxation as well as washing. Some natural springs or tidal pools were believed to be blessed by the gods and so could cure disease. Around these sacred pools the ancient Greeks established baths for those in hopes of a cure. In Sparta a primitive steam bath was developed, known as a
thermae. Early Greek bathhouses were known as
balneum and were sometimes carved into the hillside from which hot springs came. In this way natural features were utilised but expanded on with mosaic floors, shelves and other decoration. The word
balneum in Greek became the modern day
banio, meaning bath or to bathe.
Due to the increasing interest in relaxation and leisure in the fast paced modern world, spas are an essential part of our way of life. Water treatments are still considered the heart of the spa experience in Europe today. The spa experience is all about cleansing, heating and relaxing the body, exactly like in those ancient Greek balnea and thermae. Healing and wellbeing is still the order of the day.
Many modern spas use thalassotherapy, although developed in the 19th century at seaside towns in Brittany, is derived from the Greek thalassa meaning “sea”. Seawater was and is thought to have beneficial effects on the skin and is used all over the world. Another Greek invention, the hot tub (today often known as the jacuzzi), is used in almost every contemporary spa for relaxation.
Halkidiki now boasts some of the most unique spas in Greece:
Porto Carras has one of the biggest hotel spas in Europe. With two international centres of thalassotheraphy, ancient therapies are applied in a contemporary way, using seaweed, sea water and essential oils.
St Barths products are used here, from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean.
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| Spa Pool at Meliton Hotel, Porto Carras |
One of the most individual and calming spas is at the island hotel of
Agionissi. The spectacular view from the pool looks over the Aegean towards Ouranopoulos on the Greek mainland. It is a magical place full of quirky antiques and tasteful furnishings. The products used are exclusive to this hotel spa and the others in the P.A.P. Corp stable.
Just Pure is a range of products based on phases of the moon.
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Agionissi Spa
(Courtesy P.A.P. Corp) |
At the
Danai Beach Resort there is an abundance of marbled luxury. Surrounded by lush Italianate gardens, guests relax only a stone's throw from the beach. Now open all year round, the spa is a haven of peace and quiet. The Danai spa also uses
St Baths range.
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Danai Beach Resort & Spa
(Courtesy of Leading Small Hotels of the World) |
The
Sani resort has a variety of spas spread through the Beach Club, Asterias Suites and Porto Sani Village. Soothing treatments are designed by Anne Semonin and
Apivita whose natural products are used in all therapies.
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Spa at Porto Sani Village
(Courtesy of Sani Resort) |
It is always best to avoid the school holiday period, unless you like scorching heat coupled with inflated prices, packed streets and beaches. August is particularly busy because Greeks, along with other continentals, have the whole month off. 
