Looking for a haven of beauty, relaxation and renewal, Fernanda Langhammer stepped into Sash Spa in Riffa for the first time. Her experience and impressions are well worth reading.
I have yet to meet a woman who wouldn’t be thrilled by the prospect of a spa day. And if you’re the rare exception, chances are you’ve never experienced a truly great one. The secret lies in finding the right place – and Sash Spa, I must say, is exactly that.
Bringing together a hair salon, nail studio, spa and gym under one roof, Sash has offered a complete wellness and beauty experience in Bahrain for the past 11 years (an impressive milestone it celebrated in June). Whether you’re looking for a quick refresh or a full day of indulgence, it’s the kind of place that leaves you feeling transformed, rejuvenated and ready to take on the world. Spoiler alert: that’s exactly what happened to me.
Relaxation Mode: On
My pampering day began at the spa. After a brief tour of the amazing facilities, I met my therapist, Ornuma, who handed me a consultation form to complete while I sipped a warm welcome drink infused with ginger, honey and lemongrass.
I was then escorted to the changing area and, within minutes, was wrapped in a plush robe and comfortable slippers. The experience truly began with the spa’s signature foot ritual, which takes place in a seating area just outside the treatment room. With the pull of what seemed like a magic drawer, a bowl filled with pebbles and warm water appeared before me – a delightful surprise I certainly wasn’t expecting.
As Ornuma gently exfoliated my feet with a sugar-and-oil scrub, she asked whether I would prefer to begin with the massage or the facial. It was a question no therapist had ever asked me before, despite my many spa visits over the years. Unsure which to choose, I opted for the traditional sequence: massage first, facial second.
Sash Spa’s Balinese Journey Massage
We then made our way to the Tulip Room – all treatment rooms are named after flowers – where soft lighting and an inviting massage bed set the tone for the next hour. The chosen treatment was the 60-minute Balinese Journey Massage. Ornuma asked about my preferred pressure level. After years of receiving countless massages in different countries with therapists from around the world, I have learned that medium pressure is my sweet spot: firm enough to be effective, yet never painful.
Balinese massage is a holistic, full-body treatment that combines gentle stretching, acupressure, reflexology and aromatherapy to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, and reduce stress. It also supports the body’s natural detoxification process through lymphatic drainage techniques while helping to restore balance to the body’s energy centres.
Throughout the treatment, I could feel Ornuma’s skilled hands targeting specific pressure points to encourage energy flow and ease tension, while techniques such as skin rolling, kneading and stretching helped release tight muscles and improve joint mobility. The aromatic blend of pine and orange oils added a refreshing sensory dimension to the experience.
As expected, my notoriously stubborn knots in the upper back and shoulders became a primary focus. What impressed me most about my therapist’s technique was her ability to apply firm, purposeful pressure without ever crossing into discomfort. By the end of the session, I felt noticeably lighter and more relaxed, as though some weight had been lifted from my shoulders.
Emerging Radiant
From there, we moved into the facial suite, a luminous sanctuary where my experience began with the Biologique Recherche Skin Instant Lab consultation. The French skincare brand is renowned for its highly concentrated, results-driven formulas and this advanced diagnostic system reflects that same scientific approach. Using five specialised probes, it measures hydration, transepidermal water loss, elasticity, pigmentation and sebum levels to create a detailed picture of the skin’s condition. The goal is to develop a personalised treatment and home-care plan based on real data rather than guesswork.
After answering a few questions, Ornuma guided each of the probes across specific areas of my face while the system gathered its readings. Within minutes, the programme recommended products from Biologique Recherche’s extensive range that would best suit my skin’s needs. What I appreciated most was how the technology supports the therapist in choosing the right products for the treatment. Skincare can often feel overwhelming, so having a plan tailored to your complexion feels like a real luxury.
The facial began with a thorough cleanse using a multi-phase eye make-up remover and Eau Micellaire Biosensible. Once my skin was prepped, LAIT VIP O2 was applied before Ornuma performed an extensive lymphatic drainage massage. For me, this is one of the biggest differences between a professional facial and an at-home skincare routine. The gentle, rhythmic movements help stimulate lymphatic flow, reducing puffiness while subtly sculpting and defining the face.
Next came LOTION P50W, a gentle exfoliating and purifying lotion, followed by MASQUE VIP O2, a hydrating mask enriched with an oxygenating complex designed to refresh and protect the skin. While the mask sat on my complexion, Ornuma offered a scalp massage, which I enthusiastically accepted. It was one of those small touches that made the treatment feel even more indulgent.
The final stage was a carefully layered sequence of targeted skincare, beginning with the anti-ageing ELASTINE and SÉRUM A-GLYCA, followed by a comforting anti-wrinkle treatment for the delicate eye and lip contours. CRÈME M.C. moisturiser, LE GRAND SÉRUM and, finally, PROTECTION U.V. completed the ritual. More than 10 products later – each selected for my skin’s unique condition – my complexion appeared noticeably brighter, firmer and infused with a fresh, healthy luminosity.
As my time in the spa drew to a close and I made my way towards the salon, I felt remarkably lighter, both physically and mentally. Not only had signs of fatigue and tension melted away, but so too had the mental fog that often accompanies a demanding schedule. Yet my journey at Sash Spa was not quite over.
Controlled Tresses At Sash’s Salon
The lovely Natalia, the Spa Manager, stopped by to see how I had enjoyed my spa journey before escorting me to the salon, where the hair team was waiting.
After lightly dampening my locks, Julie, the hair therapist, applied a nourishing blend of avocado, honey, olive and argan oils. Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this natural treatment is designed to deeply hydrate the hair, boost shine and help tame frizz—something my curls are always grateful for. It also helps nourish the scalp and minimise breakage. It’s a reminder that in a world with an overwhelming array of beauty products, opting for simplicity and the goodness of nature can lead to impressive results.
Once the treatment was rinsed away after 20 minutes, hairstylist Shadi stepped in with his magic touch – or, more accurately, a very skilled blow-dry. Before long, my curls had been transformed into sleek, glossy strands, finished with soft, natural waves. It was the kind of hair that instantly changes your mood and has you walking a little taller with every step.
Hand Spa
My final stop at Sash was the nail studio, a dedicated space entirely devoted to hand and foot care. There, I was welcomed by Chutikan, who introduced me to the Signature Manicure – easily one of the most thorough manicures I have ever experienced. The challenge was choosing a nail colour. Determined to try something different, I carefully considered my options, only to find myself gravitating towards classic red once again.
After nail shaping and meticulous cuticle care, the treatment evolved into something that felt more like a hand spa ritual than a traditional manicure. Exfoliation, nourishing creams, sérum, oils and relaxing massages followed, while a pair of warm gloves helped lock in moisture and enhance the benefits of the products. By the end, my hands felt incredibly soft, smooth and cared for. The perfect final touch to make me feel completely transformed. The woman who stepped in in the morning was definitely not the same one who stepped out that day.
Interiors that Indulge
The experience extended beyond the treatments themselves. At Sash Spa, the interiors play an important role in creating an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and welcoming.
The spa, located on the first floor, is a grand space defined by white marble, golden accents and statement chandeliers. Mirrors everywhere enhance the feeling of light and openness, while intricate woodwork on the ceilings filters soft illumination through elegant patterns, creating a serene and sophisticated environment.
The ladies-only gym offers a different but equally inviting energy. Bright and boutique-like, it features floor-to-ceiling windows, modern equipment and dedicated studios for classes. Meanwhile, the salon and nail studio on the ground floor have a livelier, more social atmosphere, with contemporary grey and purple accents adding a vibrant touch. Together, the different spaces flow seamlessly, creating a destination where beauty, wellness and relaxation come together under one roof.
Final Thoughts
As I finally left Sash Spa, I caught my reflection and smiled. Yes, my skin was glowing, my hair looked flawless and my nails were perfectly polished, but what struck me most was how refreshed I felt. Sometimes, the best beauty treatments are the ones that make you feel lighter, brighter and more like yourself. And that was exactly the feeling I took home with me.
For more information or to make a booking, please call Sash Spa on 1789 9990.
@sashspa