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(Courtesy WeWantMore)
The term “beer destination” can be over-used by beer journalists. But this beer spa, hidden in the old city center of Brussels, is definitely a journey worth taking.
Beer Spas are as much about the setting as they are about the relaxing treatments and beer that accompanies these health-beneficial sessions. And Bath & Barley offers a striking setting and serious beer.
The first beer spa in Belgium, Bath & Barley was designed by WeWantMore, who offer a modern take on the traditional day spas.
“Beer spas are a tradition in the Czech Republic but not in Belgium, despite our nation’s rich beer culture,” the studio explained to dezeen…
“We noticed that most Czech beer spas are more beer than spa – dark, lots of neon and an overall pub vibe,” the practice added. “This wasn’t our idea of a soothing wellness experience.”
“Instead, we decided to create a sense of relaxation and intimacy, but with a link to what distinguishes Bath & Barley: beer, bathing and Belgium’s beer.”
(A stone tasting counter defines the reception room: WeWantMore)
Unlike other beer spas we’ve visited which build upon their dramatic outdoor locations like the northern reaches of Iceland, or the deep Canadian forest, Bath & Barley sports a smart urban design that embraces the modern without forgoing Belgium’s medieval brewing traditions.
Located on the ground floor, the spa’s reception center is wrapped in curved copper sheets to resemble the kettles used in traditional Belgian breweries.
Dried barley hangs from its ceiling as guests are welcomed with a variety of beers and invited to select the hops they want to add to their session before proceeding to the relaxing baths one floor below.
And the baths below are just as evocative as the reception room above, intimately lit and subtly cloistered, but with a distinctly contemporary European touch.
“The design supports social wellbeing,” WeWantMore added, “and creates a unique escape from the daily rush.”
And who doesn’t need that, warmly hopped herbal baths in a brilliantly designed venue, especially when accompanied with serious Belgian beer?
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(All images are courtesy of WeWantMore)
