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On-call therapists, bespoke treatments and DNA testing: Ultima Collection responds to new demand for private wellness escapes

05 Jul 2021 As the world steers itself through the new COVID-19 landscape, people are placing a much higher value on guaranteed privacy, safety and minimised risk of infection during their hospitality and wellness experiences.

As a result, private wellness offerings have become increasingly popular, particularly with ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI).

Ultima Collection’s portfolio of private European residences, chalets, villas and a five-star hotel means it’s well placed to answer this demand, according to managing partner Michala Chatel.

Each destination offers five-star amenities and service, including a spa, in the intimacy of a private residence, alongside the recent addition of on-demand wellness experiences.

“Our approach to wellness and wellbeing is completely tailored to each guest and every Ultima spa is powered by a concierge team including on-call clinicians, aestheticians and therapists who create unique and bespoke treatments,” explains Chatel, “no request is too big or small for them.”

Spa Business spoke to Chatel in the latest issue to understand the logistics of offering wellness on-demand in this way.

What wellness services is Ultima providing?
Every Ultima spa offers a range of treatments and services, from cellular hydration and lifting treatments to aromatherapy massages and body wraps, all provided by Swiss Perfection. We’ve also partnered with Switzerland-based Aesthetics Clinics to empower guests to identify their strengths and weaknesses through its DNA testing services. Personalisation runs deep within our philosophy and this helps us plan a roadmap of individually tailored treatments and services for optimal wellbeing.

What epitomises Ultima’s wellness offering?
We know 80 per cent of UHNWIs are dedicating more of their time and money to wellbeing, so we recently created a holistic wellness retreat that perfectly caters to this demand: The Ultima Escape.
Available at all our properties, this self-care trip focuses on immunity, lifestyle and the environment and future healing and is designed to leave guests feeling rejuvenated over the course of a full month.
Guests can tend to their mind, gut and soul for a detoxifying stay, starting with a health check-up with a nutritionist, personal trainer and masseuse with a highly personalised programme to cater to their individual needs.
Then, treatment plans are curated following Aesthetic Clinics’ DNA analysis to help make positive, long-term changes and mitigate the risks of developing illnesses in the future.
Guests receive tailor-made immunity booster supplements informed by hair analysis, health check-ups by a licensed physician and four massages a week. They’re also provided with butler service five-days-a-week, three personal training sessions a week, full access to on-site spa facilities and daily healthy breakfasts.

How much does this package cost?
The Ultima Escape begins from CHF263,000 (US$291,558, €239,715, £206,381) for one month for up to 10 people, including accommodation and a chef. Additional services available on request include service staff for lunch and dinner, private driver and car, additional facility sanitisation and private helicopter/jet flights, as well as yacht charters.

What inspired you to launch Ultima Escapes?
We knew we had to create something that answered the call of all those who’re looking to maximise their exposure to wellbeing treatments and therapies.
The average length of stay at our properties is 33 days and we’re continuing to witness a steep increase in the number of our long-stay guests. With these factors in mind, we wanted to create a well-rounded experience that perfectly caters to these demands. Thus, the Ultima Escape was born to offer the perfect combination of revitalisation and rejuvenation for guests who like to prioritise their health and wellness.

Can guests add more wellness treatments to the package?
Yes, they can personalise the package however they like. Massage treatments begin from CHF197 (US$221, €180, £156) for 50 minutes and Swiss Perfection’s range of cellular facials start at CHF296 (US$331, €270, £234) for a 60-minute treatment.

How popular has wellness been for Ultima’s guests following the pandemic?
In 2021 alone, we’ve already had over 60 per cent of guests incorporate wellness treatments into their stays. DNA analysis in particular has been one of the most popular treatments as it can help inform every detail of their experience – even down to personalised menus. In light of this uptake, we’re continuing to anchor our philosophy and offering with wellness as we expand and realise our new destination in Courchevel, featuring two world-class spas and wellness amenities.