Hammam Al Ándalus

Earlier this month, I was treated to a generous gift card for Malaga’s Hammam Al Ándalus; the city’s aromatic Arab Baths. 

Despite being pricey, the baths were an unforgettable experience. The quality of the facilities, treatments and service were definitely worth the money.

I would recommend a stop at the Hammam to anyone: whether visiting or living in Malaga. Here is a short recount of my Hammam Experience. 

The Clean

After putting on your swimsuit in the Hammam’s luxurious changing rooms, you are shown up to the baths. Those who have paid for treatment wear a wrist band and are called in to the massage room. There is a blissfully calm atmosphere and you are made to feel completely at ease. The room is dully lit and cleverly laid out so that each massage chair is totally private. Most treatments start off with a fifteen minute deep cleanse. (The Hammam’s website refers to this as ‘The Water Journey.’) 

The masseur pours warm water over your body and gently scrubs your arms, legs and back. Then, a light bag filled with shower foam is held above you and is slowly opened, letting the bubbles spread slowly over your body. The cleanse is finished by hot, wet towels being placed over your back, giving a warm, comforting sensation.

I loved every minute of the cleanse and was so relaxed by the end, I was practically asleep. It was the highlight of the whole experience.

The Massage

Following the deep cleanse, you are treated to a massage. I was lucky enough to have a forty-five minute full body treatment but massages start at fifteen minutes if you want a cheaper option.

Before starting, you are allowed to choose between different smelling massage oils. Pre-massage, you are able to smell each of the scents in boxes so you have time to think about your choice. This selection gave the massage a personal touch which I loved.

The masseur was gentle yet thorough and knew exactly how to relax every inch of my body. She was patient and polite throughout the treatment, making sure I was totally relaxed.

The Baths

The baths themselves were a marvel. The Hammam is spread out on to two floors and stylishly designed so that different rooms host different baths. From steam rooms to cold plunges pools, the baths have everything; including a lounge corner where you could drink traditional herbal tea. The main baths are stunning; their colourful tiles and candles are perfectly in keeping with the style of an ancient Arabic bath.

The set-up of the baths meant their were plenty of places to explore but not too many to make you feel lost or disorientated. What’s more, the Hammam was never too crowded. Guests can only speak in low whispers, preserving the serene and tranquil atmosphere. Every detail had been thought through and the execution was perfect.

All in all, The Hammam Al Ándalus is an expensive yet exquisite experience.

You leave feeling rested, refreshed and relaxed. In fact, the real world comes as a bit of shock!

If you have the time and the money, these Arab Baths are a must during your time in Malaga.

Read more about prices and treatments on the Hammam’s official website: http://malaga.hammamalandalus.com/en/