Stephanie’s Spa Retreat, Sofitel Brisbane

The multi award-winning, French-style Stephanie’s Spa Retreat offers an extensive menu of beauty treatments, spa therapies, and unique signature treatments, but the real highlight here is the beautiful

Rasul Temple, the only one of its kind in the entire country. It can accommodate up to three people, but I was delighted to have it all to myself as I indulged in the magical two-hour Opal Rasul Steam Temple journey, which includes a one-hour full body massage. I step into the Rasul and exfoliate with the mit provided before slathering myself in three different types of muds, then sit back and relax as the steam starts, heating up to 42 degrees. If it gets too much for you, there’s a shower room off to the side to provide respite, but I find it easy to relax, focus on my breathing and find my zen. Towards the end, a gentle rainfall starts, after which I shower off, robe up and enjoy a cup of Stephanie’s tea elixir in the relaxation lounge before my therapeutic Essential Massage. Commencing with a divine foot bath, I choose one of Stephanie’s signature essential oils, and the hour passes all too quickly during a soothing and re-energising massage performed by a caring and intuitive therapist. This is truly one of the most special spa experiences in Australia. stephaniessparetreat.com.au