Andrew Welch’s journey begins on a Friday morning aboard the Eurostar, bound for Rotterdam, where he seeks to experience the renowned Elysium spa. The anticipation of escaping the daily grind and embracing the Unknown creates a thrill akin to playing truant. As the train emerges from the Channel Tunnel, the picturesque French countryside unfolds, setting the tone for a unique adventure. Welch is drawn to Elysium, touted as ‘The Ultimate Wellness Experience,’ a far cry from the typical UK spa experience.
In the UK, spas often emphasize pampering, with images of middle-aged women in white robes, cucumber slices over their eyes, dominating the scene. These establishments typically offer a range of treatments and facilities, such as swimming pools and saunas, often set in grand country houses. However, Welch notes that the focus is more on indulgence than holistic wellness. This is where European spas, like Elysium, differ significantly, offering a more comprehensive approach to wellness.
Elysium, located just north of Rotterdam, is a palace of steam, heat, and water. With 28 saunas, four swimming pools, and various hot tubs and plunge pools, the spa is designed for holistic wellness. The mandatory nudity, while initially surprising to Welch, is a cultural norm in many European spas. This practice is rooted in the belief that nudity enhances the therapeutic benefits of sauna and pool experiences, allowing for a more immersive connection with the surroundings.
The cultural aspect of nudity at Elysium is non-sexual and straightforward. Locals frequent the spa as they would a gym, bringing their own towels and robes. This natural approach contrasts with the more reserved attitude in the UK, where nudity is often met with prudery. Welch observes that the atmosphere at Elysium is calm and peaceful, inviting quiet contemplation and mutual respect among guests, creating a serene environment that contrasts the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Elysium’s facilities are diverse and meticulously designed. From saunas with varying heat intensities and scents to pools under canopies of leaves, the spa offers a range of experiences aimed at relaxation and rejuvenation. The architecture blends indoor and outdoor spaces, with some areas resembling caves carved from rock, while others offer scenic views of ponds and lawns. This thoughtful design ensures that each sauna and pool provides a unique experience, catering to various preferences for heat, ambiance, and scenery.
Beyond the spa, Welch’s journey continues in Rotterdam, a city where water is ever-present and modern architecture mingles with natural beauty. Staying at the nhow hotel, he enjoys panoramic views of the city, exploring marinas, the Euromast, and the bustling Markthal. The trip is a harmonious blend of wellness and urban exploration, illustrating how a visit to Elysium can be seamlessly integrated into a city break. Welch reflects that no Dutch courage is needed to embrace the nude spa experience, as it offers an opportunity for self-discovery and relaxation in a welcoming setting.
