As City of Culture 2014 Cape Town merits at least a few hours wandering through the streets to soak up the beautiful assimilation of old and modern architecture that jigsaws this city together. If you are looking for the Great Outdoors, beyond the urban sprawl the dramatic South African landscape can be explored on safari, and on the sea, visitors to the city can try their hands at an array of water sports.

But if it’s relaxation and rejuvenation that you seek, in the quieter corners of the city, off the streets and behind closed doors one can find some of the finest spas in the world offering varied treatments in serene settings. Here are three of the best spas in Cape Town:

• Life Day Spa Cape Town is part of the Life Day Spa group, and the Cape Town branch was a recent runner up for Best Spa in the World. In addition to the cool and slick interior design of the spa – clean straight lines, calm and sober colouring – what differentiates this spa from many others is its commitment to expertise and top quality customer care. All the therapists at Life Day Spa are fully trained before they are hired, and are given further coaching in the deployment of the spa’s own products before stating work. The spa’s own aromatherapy based product range has been popular, proving the spa to be as good for the skin, as it is easy on the eyes.
• Cape Grace is situated on the Victoria and Albert Waterfront and celebrates the city’s rich and vibrant history. Almost entirely surrounded by water, Cape Grace looks to the city’s role as a vital naval port. The products used in the treatment at Cape Grace pay homage to the former spice trading route that passed through Cape Town. Even deeper, the hand motions used by the masseurs are inspired by the ancient tribal dances from the country’s rich past. Cape Grace also boasts a gym – if you are feeling active –, offers couple massages – if you’re not – and a restaurant that will close the day perfectly whether you are pumped or sleepy.
• Arabella Spa is part of the Westin Hotel Cape Town which boasts some of the best views of the city. Reclining on a water bed or relaxing in the lap pool and sauna, visitors to this spa can enjoy the finest treatment and indulgence that Cape Town has to offer. Arabella Spa has an extensive array of treatments and facilities, as well as a restaurant with a spectacularly decadent menu.

All these spas are situated in the city centre which is only 20 kilometres from the airport. From the airport visitors can take a taxi in to the city or use the competent bus service. Alternatively, if you want to commence your spa break in the style you intend to spend it, Blacklane Limousines offer a Cape Town airport transfer to whisk you into the city in style.