TALLOULA’S GARDEN SPA NEVER FAILS TO IMPRESS AND DE-STRESS
Story Katrine Anker-Nilssen | Pictures Kelly Daniels
Arriving at Talloula – whether it’s your first, tenth or hundredth time – is always special. Everyday tensions quickly disappear and a feeling of serenity envelops you completely. The spectacular garden setting has a lot to do with this, and so does Talloula’s attentive management and staff. That all-important warm welcome at the door, being pampered by therapists with a magic touch and indulging in delicious, fresh food… what more can you ask for?
“We are all about passion, warmth, personal touch and attention to detail,” says Louis Gordon, co-owner of Talloula. “A country feel in a city is what we offer, a mere five-minute drive from Hillcrest – in the heart of the beautiful Valley of 1000 Hills.”
“The Talloula brand started in 2001, when I began exploring my passion for flowers and decor before moving into event and wedding planning,” explains Glynnis Dirksen. “After many years of working at different venues around the country, Louis and I decided to build our own. And so, in 2011, Talloula the venue was born.”
Constantly visited by locals looking for work, they were inspired to make a difference by creating employment. “We had the idea of opening a spa – using our beautiful gardens and some of the accommodation suites to create an upliftment project,” says Glynnis.
Two years ago they started by employing and upskilling two ladies, and today there are eight therapists in total. “The Garden Spa has been a huge success. We do massages along with pedicures and manicures, as well as a pampering facial. A year ago we introduced the highly sought-after probiotic organic range of Esse skincare – made locally in Richmond,” says Glynnis. “Our therapists now also do a pressure point chair massage of back, shoulders, neck and scalp – which is done fully clothed for those who don’t want to get oily.”
The Garden Spa is well known for its monthly buy one get one free specials, and also specialises in pregnancy massage. “We can do any massage for pregnant ladies, by positional adjustment and using products that are safe for pregnancy,” explains spa manager Lydelle Goddard – who loves seeing the look of delight and pure bliss on guests’ faces after their treatment.
There are two treatment rooms with two massage beds each, plus a treehouse tented treatment room amongst the trees, with two massage beds. “We can also do up to eight chair treatments at a time, which is perfect for corporates,” says Lydelle – adding that couples massages and mom and daughter massages are popular.
All feedback received focus on the amazing touch of the Talloula therapists and how they really connect with the guests. “When we meet a trainee we look at her hands to see if they are loving hands, and we also see if the person connects with Talloula, its concept and its people,” says Lydelle.
Twenty-two-year-old Anele Ntshangase lost her mom when she was 12, and lives in KwaNuyswa with her grandfather. After matriculating in 2016, Anele dropped off her CV all over Botha’s Hill – eager to find a job to support herself. “I always loved the idea of becoming a massage therapist. When they phoned me from Talloula and offered me training, I was so excited! I have been part of the family since April, and I love meeting new people – helping them relax and feeling pampered and loved,” says Anele.
Before or after your treatment, you can enjoy quality, freshly made meals with considerate attention to detail at Treat Café. “All our sauces are homemade, and our suppliers are within a 20km radius in keeping with our ethos of supporting local, organic farmers,” says Glynnis, adding that Talloula is thrilled to have been awarded the Best Performing Restaurant by the SA Chef’s Association last month – a testament to executive chef, Bheki Msomi, who hails from the 1 000 Hills area.
Talloula is also the perfect venue for weddings and conferences, the decor and flower service is outstanding, and four tastefully decorated suites – sleeping eight guests – are available to event and garden spa guests. *
FOR MORE INFO
Tues-Sun: 8.15am-4pm, bookings essential, 031 777 1586, www.talloula.co.za