A new US$5 million, 10,000-square-foot spa has opened at Grupo Vidanta’s Riviera Maya in Mexico with a 100sq ft (9sq m) salt cave for halotherapy.

“Spatium is an ultra-luxurious spa, which offers an unrivalled experience in an environment infused with relaxing natural elements,” said Norma Suárez, director of the Grupo Vidanta Riviera Maya.

Suarez said the philosophy behind the 10-treatment room spa designed by AHA Universo, is “to create a space that would guide guests’ five senses to a state of pure relaxation of body and mind.” The Balinese style al fresco concept features wooden pathways weaving through the Mayan jungle connecting pavilions and casitas – all created with regional materials.

The spa contains 10 private cabanas, as well as cold plunge pools and Swiss showers. It uses products from Aromatherapy Associates and Natura Bisse. Spatium features a diverse selection of treatments, from massages aimed to boost the immune system, to body wraps designed to improve circulation. There is also aromatherapy and vibrational therapy, as well as facials, manicures and pedicures.

The halotherapy cabin is a 100sq ft (9sq m) salt cabin designed to replicate the healing benefits of a salt cave, said Suarez. Sessions lasting 25-minutes are held at a temperature between 70-77ºF (21-25ºC), and the idea is to breathe in iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chloride, iron and copper. Suarez said the inhalation of these salt particles can improve breathing problems such as asthma, colds, bronchitis and sinusitis; improve skin problems such as acne and atopic dermatitis; enhance the immune system; and improve performance during physical conditioning.

“When we created Spatium, we wanted it to be the ultimate destination for relaxation,” said Michel Beuffe, CEO for Gruop Vidanta. “Guests come to our resorts expecting a world-class experience and Spatium is a reflection of our mission to provide an unforgettable moment.”

This is the second Spatium location; Grupo Vidanta also features a location in Nuevo Vallarta, as well as Brio Spas at six other locations. Plans for additional Spatium Spas are currently under development. Riviera Maya also includes Vidanta Golf’s Jack Nicklaus 18-hole golf course.