When it comes to self care, few therapeutic experiences realign one’s centre quite like a visit to a bathhouse. Whether soaking to ease aches and pains or sweating to eliminate toxins, a spell in the serene surrounds of a contemporary bathhouse is not only relaxing, but restorative.

If there’s anyone that can speak to the rejuvenating aspects of bathhouses, it’s James Walsh – a seasoned long-distance and ultra-marathon runner whose active lifestyle eventually brought him to the world of wellness. While travelling Europe, James frequented many recovery centres equipped with saunas and steam baths – opening his eyes to not only the invigorating potential of bathhouses, but also the relative dearth of quality options in Australia. Armed with a wealth of inspiration, James has set out to set a new standard of bathhouses here in Australia, opening The Bathhouse Albion as part of the Albion Fine Trades precinct on Sandgate Road.

Looking to evoke the old-world European spas of bygone eras, The Bathhouse Albion blends classic aesthetics with modern amenities to create a luxury experience that is world-class. A no-expense-spared fit-out (designed by award-winning architects Hogg & Lamb and constructed by Sonder Projects) has resulted in a space that feels unlike any other in Brisbane. Once guests pass through a set of blackout curtains separating the waiting room and the bathhouse proper, they’ll be transported to a tranquil space boasting tall ceilings, travertine stone imported from Turkey, ambient lighting, a curated playlist of serene sounds and even a custom scent in the air. This clean and calming environment is phone and alcohol free, where senses are eased and time melts away.

While the design will no doubt have visitors marvelling, The Bathhouse Albion’s amenities are what will have folks returning time and again. The venue is equipped with three pools – a heated vitality pool, one 12-degree cold pool and a bracingly icy six-degree cold pool. Post immersion, guests can make for one of The Bathhouse Albion’s four saunas – a traditional sauna, a Finnish sauna with its own fireplace and two infrared saunas – or spend some time in the tiered and scented steam room for a truly cleansing experience. If that’s not enough, visitors can also book in to immerse themselves in the mineral-rich waters of the float room. Once finished, The Bathhouse Albion’s refreshment and tea lounge is a serene spot to collect one’s self before venturing to the luxurious change rooms, which are supplied with Sans [ceuticals] shampoo, conditioner, body wash and lotion, as well as Dyson hair dryers. Oh, and did we mention that The Bathhouse Albion offers unlimited cotton towels? If you needed a surefire sign of luxury, this is it.

The Bathhouse Albion officially opens to the public on Saturday June 29. The bathhouse can be enjoyed casually, or as a member – head to The Bathhouse Albion’s website for more information on session prices, membership packages and gift vouchers.