SHA Spain Review By Lisa Hart

One of Healing Holidays’ Wellness Advisors, Lisa Hart, is just back from SHA Spain – here are her thoughts...

The Location

A major drawback for some Spas and Retreats is the travelling involved in order to reach them – direct flights during high season only, lengthy road transfers once you arrive, etc. Thankfully there are no such worries with SHA Spain. The nearest airport is Alicante which is well connected year-round with direct air links to a number of UK airports, and from there it is a very easy and comfortable 45-minute journey to SHA Spain. The property is set up in the serene hills of Albir on Spain’s Costa Blanca coast, with the elevated position offering peace, panoramic views and a restorative microclimate – which I think makes it the perfect location for total immersion in any health and healing process.

The Accommodation

I was very fortunate to stay in one of the newly renovated Deluxe Mountain View Suites, which was simply gorgeous and most definitely elevated my whole experience. Without wanting to sound like a presenter on Grand Designs, the interiors reflect a high-spec, modern-alpine fusion – think natural wood finishes, soft organic textures and earthy tones that blend seamlessly with sleek, contemporary lines. The design struck the perfect balance between comfort and calm, with an atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. I loved the cleverly designed spinning TV stand - a unique and functional design detail that added a sense of playful luxury. The panoramic mountain views, seen through expansive glass doors, completed the space beautifully. I was quite happy to call this home for a few days.

The Wellness Concept 

SHA Spain is all about East meeting West. Holistic therapies like acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine blend with modern medical techniques such as IV infusions, body composition analysis and neurocognitive assessments. Add in personalised nutrition, physical training and group classes and the result is a well-rounded and highly personalised wellness programme designed to support deep, lasting wellbeing.

The Facilities

For me the standout feature was the rooftop infinity pool – very chi-chi and cool, and surrounded by dramatic mountain vistas. There were plenty of hideaway sun lounger spots for quiet moments of relaxation and for just doing nothing. The terrace restaurant was equally impressive, offering nutritious meals in a light-filled setting with a gentle breeze and to-die-for sunset views.

The Treatments

My programme began with an in-depth health assessment, which included body composition analysis, and glyco-oxidation, muscular strength, stress evaluation & cognitive function tests, all carefully reviewed with SHA’s expert medical team. I had the pleasure of consulting with the very kind and very knowledgeable Dr. Riselli, who specialises in hormonal health. As someone who has recently faced challenges in this area, I found her warm, intelligent guidance to be incredibly helpful. She suggested and offered me small, actionable tweaks that have already started making a real difference to my life.

One of the most impactful moments of my stay was the neurocognitive consultation with Professor Ribeiro. This was both intellectually illuminating and emotionally powerful, offering profound insights into my focus, emotional processing and mental patterns - insights that I continue to reflect on and integrate into my daily life.

The Therapists

I think my favourite, most nurturing treatments were the acupuncture sessions I had with SHA’s incredibly sweet Traditional Chinese Medicine therapist, Jose. With his gentle energy and intuitive technique, he made each session a deeply calming, restorative experience, which beautifully illustrated SHA’s East-meets-West ethos, blending ancient practices with scientific precision.

My cryotherapy sessions with Kristy were invigorating and energising, a shock to the system in the best possible way, and my functional fitness assessment with my personal trainer Carla was expertly pitched - she knew exactly how to guide and challenge me without pushing too far. I left her feeling stronger and more in tune with my body.

The Food

My nutritional consultation was a real turning point. It helped me cut through all the conflicting advice I had absorbed from various health podcasts and returned me to grounded, simple principles rooted in balance. The meals at SHA were perfectly tailored to support my programme, with macro-balanced, beautifully presented dishes paired with medicinal teas. I especially enjoyed the Apple Kudzu, Kukicha and Mu teas, which I have since added to my pantry at home.

The cooking class I attended was interactive and inspiring as we explored flavourful, nourishing recipes with the in-house nutritionist. Since I returned home I have tried many of the dishes from SHA’s cookbook, including the homemade miso, and millet & quinoa porridge for breakfast.

The Verdict

I knew my stay at SHA Spain would be good, but I don’t think I realised just how good. Everything there runs like clockwork; seamless scheduling, punctual appointments and a team that radiates warmth and professionalism. I did not feel rushed or lost, and every part of the experience is carefully orchestrated to let you focus purely on your own wellbeing.

It really does deliver on every level and it’s a place where, for me, a real transformation began. I returned home not just inspired, but equipped - with new routines, better understanding, and a fresh perspective on what wellness truly means.

I would have zero hesitation in highly recommended SHA Spain for anyone seeking deep healing, guidance and long-term change.