Spa review: Liv Nordic in Dubai’s Cayan ‘twisty’ Tower

A treatment room at Liv Nordic spa in Dubai Marina. Courtesy Liv Nordic

The location:

Highly memorable, given that the spa is housed on the sixth floor of Dubai Marina’s Cayan Tower, or ‘twisty tower’ as it is affectionately known.

Liv Nordic’s spa is an intriguing space that hugs the curves of the building with a long circular corridor leading to treatment rooms and relaxation areas. There’s also a very well equipped high-tech gym and, the pièce de résistance, an infinity pool and terrace overlooking Dubai Marina’s waterways.

The treatments:

Manicures and pedicures take place in Liv Nordic’s sunny hair-cum-beauty salon. The space oozes Scandinavian-chic and has an interior of blonde wood, grey slate and sleek furniture. Which was greatly appealing, until about an hour into the treatment, when sitting in a rigidly upright chair — that wouldn’t recline — became an uncomfortable experience.

While my therapist was thoroughly charming, the mani-pedi I received was disappointing. A deep-clean and sparkling finish was lacking and the nail polish wasn’t perfect on either hand. The biggest drawback, however, was that the process took far too long. Almost two-and-a-half hours sat in one awkward position made for a very fidgety experience, especially in the absence of Wi-Fi or visual stimulation. On the upside, the ever replenishing cups of detoxing herbal tea and generous bowls of nuts and raisins were a nice touch.

Massages:

Liv Nordic’s list of massages and wellness treatments are true to its roots and broad in their appeal. The execution of the ‘mindful massage’ I received was superb and the therapist had clearly been expertly trained in Europe. My advice would be to book a late treatment and arrive early enough to take advantage of the spa’s facilities, in particular the traditional sauna and plunge pools.

The verdict:

A bijoux spa that boasts fabulous views from an iconic building. Scandinavians will love its nods to home — not least the ergonomic decor and straightforward menu. Equally, those in favour of frill-free treatments, geared towards holistic health and well-being, will feel right at home.

As a footnote, Liv Nordic’s bathrobes are unimaginably soft and thick. If you can’t bear to be parted from your luxury gown post-massage, the in-store boutique sells them for Dh600.

Seasonal offers:

If you’re keen to give Liv Nordic a whirl, now is arguably a good time as Swedish massages, tailored facials and other select treatments are discounted by 40 per cent. Alternatively, book a treatment from Sunday to Wednesday and you’ll receive a complimentary 30-minute foot reflexology, face & head massage or cupping session.

For more information click here or call 045516414. The price of a 60 minute Mindful Massage, before discount, is Dh425. Liv Nordic's manicure-pedicure package, before discount, costs Dh280.

The National was a guest of the spa.