The licensed spa includes drinking and dining options for guests.
Forget about the ice bucket challenge, Banya Forrest, a new Slavic spa, is heading to Bluewaters. Scheduled to open in January 2024, it describes itself as the first fully equipped traditional Banya in the UAE. As a licensed spa, it will be unique to the UAE, offering visitors the chance to drink on-site.
Banya Forrest includes two saunas, two large cold plunge pools, traditional ice-cold bucket showers, a snow room and a restaurant. The space can accommodate 70 guests at one time. The traditional treatments include a body scrub, body wash and massage. Plus, there will be a public and a private section.
Banya Forrest prides itself on its traditional Eastern European techniques, which date back to the 11th century. It all gets a little Wim Hof, as an ice-cold bucket shower is used straight after being in the Banya, and has proven health benefits for the body.
Mikhail Ignatiev, owner of Banya Forrest, explained: “My family and I are huge admirers of Banya and we wanted to bring it somewhere all cultures are accepted and shared. This is why we brought it to Dubai. As well as this, my passion for it stems from the ability to create a place where not only people can feel good mentally and physically, but with friends and other people. Furthermore, we are bringing nature and moisture to a place that is deprived of it.”
As it is traditional to drink beer in an Eastern European Banya experience, Banya Forrest will also be home to The Slavic Restaurant and serve alcohol. Banya Forrest will be the first spa in the UAE to have a restaurant under the same license, so guests will be able to eat and drink while they unwind.
Take the plunge.
GO: Visit www.banyaforrest.com for more information.
