Sound can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety and encourage tranquillity. The sound of water has long been considered highly relaxing and has been proven to ease the fight or flight response. Liquidrom – it’s in the name – is characterised by this idea of relaxation through water. However, this wellness facility challenges typical perceptions of a spa. Described as ‘a paradise of warmth, water and music,’ Liquidrom is a haven of tranquillity in the German capital.

In the midst of central Berlin stands a quiet refuge from the fast-paced city. Liquidrom is an urban spa lounge offering everything one would expect from a luxury wellness facility, and more. The first glimpse of this tranquil sanctuary comes on the short walk to the changing rooms from the welcoming reception area when a fleeting peek of what’s to come presents itself to observant visitors. What they are yet to discover is a host of unique wellness rooms, relaxation areas and pools characterised by calming music, warm waters and luxury treatments. The refreshing smell of essential oils – perhaps escaping from one of the saunas or the steam room – is noticeable from the get-go and sets the tone for the next few hours of relaxation.

Those who have heard of Liquidrom almost certainly know of the Dome Hall. This is one of Germany’s most unique spa offerings and the most distinctive aspect of Liquidrom. At first, the sight of the large saltwater pool is concealed from guests who must wade into the thermal water down a stairway illuminated only by the calming purple lighting glowing from just around the corner. Floats lie on the side – who knew pool noodles could look so inviting – and soon the room opens up into a striking concrete dome framed by elegant archways and a small window at its apex.

The shimmering reflection of the pool on the smooth contours of the stone makes for the illusion of complete immersion in the water, a slightly eerie sensation. The senses are immediately calmed by low lighting and that same smell of essential oils that seems to envelop each room. The real treasure here – and an aspect that makes the pool ever more ethereal – is the music. Depending on the schedule, guests can discover classical melodies to techno beats both above and below the water that complement the silence. Those uncomfortable with the textile-free requirement in other parts of Liquidrom will be relieved to know that in the Dome Hall swimming costumes are mandatory.

The trick seems to be to rest your heels on the smooth sides of the pool and place a float underneath your shoulders. This way, guests are able to anchor themselves and float in peace knowing they are unlikely to drift into fellow swimmers. The arc of the dome draws the eye up to the small panel of glass at its centre. This acts as a portal to the sky, offering a view of the clouds as they pass above. Should sunshine be off the cards, rain is an equally relaxing element and one that will make swimmers feel all the more grateful for the comfortable refuge from the elements.

An open courtyard accessed by floor-to-ceiling French doors is paved with warm decking upon which white pool recliners await. Its centrepiece? A gently steaming Japanese onsen pool with room for around six to seven guests. The idea here is not to float as you might in the colourful Dome Hall but to simply sit and breathe in the cool air and let the warm water soothe the skin. Saunas and a steam room complete the holistic experience. With a Finnish sauna with special infusions, a Himalayan salt sauna and a Kelo herbal sauna, guests are spoiled for choice. Each room varies in temperature, size and atmosphere but all are textile-free. This etiquette stems from both tradition – nudity has been common practice in German wellness settings for centuries – and health. Damp synthetic swimsuits (because guests must shower before entering the spa) can produce harmful steam when introduced to such a hot environment. They can also affect the way in which sweat is evaporated from the body, which can counteract the benefits of the sauna. Liquidrom’s textile-free area also includes a plunge pool for those brave enough to face the chill. 

Liquidrom also offers a range of massages and wellness sessions that complement the overall experience and can be tailored to personal preferences. The Feel-Good Aromatic massage involves traditional techniques with warm and nourishing oils, similar to the Luxurious Argan Oil massage or the Indian Abhyanga massage, which is more spiritual. Guests can opt for a more rigorous treatment with the Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage during which a massage therapist uses their forearms and elbows to relax joints and increase blood flow, harmonising the body and mind. The Anti-Stress Head and Foot Massage Heaven and Earth focuses on the extremities of the body and balances tension and stress through targeted treatment. Watsu is an aquatic body massage in warm saltwater. Watsu providers stretch and massage guests during weightless flowing movement sequences, which are said to be deeply spiritual and liberating. In each of Liquidrom’s treatments, guests can experience holistic relaxation and harmony.

In the heart of Liquidrom are a bar and restaurant. This offers guests the opportunity to make their spa visit a whole-day affair. Relaxation at Liquidrom is fuelled by a mouth-watering variety of tarte flambée, including one dish loaded with crème fraîche, goat’s cheese, walnuts, pear and honey. Guests can also enjoy salads, bagels and nachos as well as healthy but sweeter snacks. These include yoghurt with fruit, porridge and fruit salad.

Althaus teas such as Grün Matinee, Persischer Apfel and Yogi Tee are available from the bar and offer a warm and smooth comfort to be enjoyed slowly and mindfully. Dozens more alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages populate the menu and allow for plenty of sipping throughout the day. Each purchase is simply charged to a guest’s wristband (which also operates a personal locker) to be paid on checkout, making the dining process all the more relaxing.

Liquidrom is a place to be enjoyed unhurried. From harmonising treatments to weightless saltwater pools, this wellness facility is a place to truly unwind and experience deep relaxation. Both fans of classic spa treatments and unique experiences will be delighted with what is on offer and will leave feeling more peaceful than when they arrived. Liquidrom is a great addition to any Berlin travel itinerary.