As summer unfurls across the Constantia Valley, Steenberg Spa has unveiled a seasonally inspired menu and a major recognition: the estate has been awarded a Michelin Key in the “Very Special Stay” category as part of the Michelin Guide’s inaugural continental Keys. The accolade — the hotel world’s new benchmark for design, character and service — underlines Steenberg’s ambition to deliver quietly luxurious, restorative experiences grounded in place.
“This Michelin Key is a testament to the dedication of our entire team,” says Catherine Schulze, Managing Director of Steenberg Hotel & Spa. “From the vineyards to the spa gardens, every detail reflects our commitment to offering guests a sanctuary of calm and connection.”
A summer menu shaped by nature and simplicity
Steenberg’s summer menu is built around one clear idea: wellness through reconnection. Monique Lagorie, Steenberg Spa Manager, describes the seasonal brief as “a return to simplicity” — slow rituals, outdoor treatments and the restorative energy of the estate’s gardens. Many therapies are now offered in the Secret and Scented Gardens, where birdsong, breeze and botanical scents become part of each ritual.
“We believe wellness begins with a connection to oneself, to others, and to nature,” Lagorie says. “This menu reflects that philosophy, with treatments that draw nourishment from the earth and encourage presence in every moment.”
ila partnership brings grounded luxury
Central to the new programme is a partnership with ila, the organic British wellness brand revered for wild-crafted botanicals and a spiritually grounded approach. Signature ila treatments on offer this summer include:
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Kundalini Back Therapy — a deeply restorative treatment designed to balance the nervous system, release tension and restore harmony.
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Ananda Facial — an energising ritual that uses marma massage and a green clay mask to calm inflammation and restore glow.
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Prana Vitality Massage — a full-body detox and revitalisation treatment aimed at reducing fatigue and renewing body and mind.
“Our partnership with ila allows guests to experience what we call grounded luxury,” Lagorie explains. “It’s sensory, emotional and deeply restorative.”
Thermal Suite: a Nordic-inspired outdoor ritual
The spa’s highlights extend beyond massage and facials. Steenberg has launched a Thermal Suite Experience — an outdoor ritual inspired by Finnish sauna culture. Guests move through a sequence of heat and cold: the dry warmth of the sauna, a Nordic ice-bucket shower, choice of an ice bath and a heated vitality pool. The ritual is designed to soothe, detoxify and invigorate.
Access to the Thermal Suite is included for spa guests who book treatments valued at R2 000 or more, while hotel guests enjoy complimentary use during their stay.
Seasonal focus: hydration, circulation and renewal
The summer menu emphasises lightness — hydration, circulation and renewed energy replace winter’s restorative heaviness. Signature offers such as Scented Bliss, Romantic Escape, Soulful Decadence and Being in Balance combine bodywork, facial therapies and outdoor elements to prepare skin and body for warmer months while promoting emotional clarity.
“The Thermal Suite is a journey of contrasts,” Lagorie says. “The heat soothes and detoxifies, while the cold invigorates and renews. It awakens the senses and allows the body to recalibrate naturally.”
A holistic estate experience
Steenberg’s sense of place is central to the guest experience: rolling vineyards, sculpture-dotted gardens and a relaxed pool house form the backdrop to spa moments. Guests can extend their day with wine-tasting, a meal at the estate’s restaurants or a slow afternoon at The Pool House with bespoke cocktails and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc overlooking the vines.
“Whether enjoying a glass of Sauvignon Blanc overlooking the vines or experiencing a massage in the gardens, there’s a shared essence of calm, balance and timeless tranquility,” Lagorie notes.
Michelin recognition cements a philosophy
The Michelin Key in the “Very Special Stay” category recognises Steenberg’s blend of design, character and consistently delivered service — a marker that the estate’s quiet, place-based approach to hospitality resonates with global standards for exceptional stays.
“Steenberg has always offered a complete journey of restoration,” Schulze adds. “This recognition celebrates a team that cares about how every element of a guest’s stay contributes to wellbeing.”
Bookings and practicals
Steenberg Spa’s summer menu is now available for booking. Thermal Suite access is included with treatments of R2 000 or more; hotel guests enjoy complimentary use. The estate recommends advance bookings for outdoor treatments and Thermal Suite slots, particularly on weekends.
