Aux Gazelle, known to many as a vibrant party hotspot for the over-30 crowd and its oriental brunch, hides an enchanting world beneath its surface. As you descend the stairs between Mariahilfer Straße and Gumpendorfer Straße, you step into a vast establishment that instantly transports you to the exotic allure of Maghreb. But what magic lies behind this oriental façade?
The goal is to create a sanctuary
Spanning a total of 1600 square metres in the 6th district of Vienna, Aux Gazelle houses a restaurant, occasional club events, a business lounge, and a one-of-a-kind Hammam. The goal is to create a sanctuary where one can retreat from the stresses of everyday life.
Upon entry, the attention to detail is immediately evident. Silver and gold oriental lamps cast a warm, dim light, enhancing the ambiance. To the left of the reception, the path leads straight to the Hammam.
Public baths date back to the Middle Ages, combining Roman, oriental, and Byzantine elements. Traditional bathing rituals are intended not only for the complete cleansing of the body but also of the mind. Historically, people met in Hammams to conduct business, exchange weekly gossip, or prepare spiritually for upcoming Islamic prayers.
Upon entering the wellness area, street shoes are replaced with bath slippers, and the relaxation begins. On rainy days, a Moroccan mint tea is particularly soothing, marking the start of your escape from daily life. You can purchase a beautiful kaftan here while waiting for one of the Hammam masters, known as Tellaks, to escort you.
The sound of water
After a brief introduction, you change into a traditional Hammam towel. The sound of water in the steam bath immediately induces a meditative state. Depending on your chosen package, you can either perform your own individual washing routine or be pampered by the Tellaks.
The treatment begins with a brief water bath, followed by a rest period. Wrapped in a wet bath towel, you lie on marble slabs for 15 minutes to stimulate blood circulation. Drinking water feels like a blessing after sweating. The next step is the treatment. Your entire body, especially the back and legs, is scrubbed with a massage scrubber called Kees to remove dead skin. This unique peeling leaves you feeling at least 1 kilogramme lighter. Then, you are laid back on the marble slab, and a cold, wet towel shocks your system for a few seconds. Finally, your entire body is covered in foam, making you feel like you are floating on clouds. This foam massage is performed with a linen cloth soaked in soapy water.
After washing your hair, you move to the relaxation room to let the day wind down. The entire treatment lasts about 1–1.5 hours, leaving all your grey thoughts and the gloomy weather behind.
Depending on your package, you only need to bring your own bath slippers. The staff is incredibly helpful, and if you are familiar with Hammam procedures and not shy, you can chat with the Hammam ladies, often sharing a laugh or two. For those who wish to indulge further, the restaurant offers a hearty brunch on Saturdays and a delicious breakfast, dinner, or lunch from Wednesday to Sunday. A glance at the price list reveals a wide range of services, from various rituals for men and women to facials, manicures, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, and waxing. You can find the price list here: Aux Gazelle Services.
Verdict on Aux Gazelle
For me, the experience was a delight, making me feel like I was briefly back home. On a day of heavy rain, even the weather added to the serenity and relaxation, as the title suggests. My companion and I enjoyed every moment. Even now, my skin feels as soft and smooth as after a vacation. Stay up to date on the newest in the world of Fashion, Arts, Beauty and Lifestyle; Follow FAB on Instagram.
Details:
Website: https://auxgazelle.mytreatwell.at
Location: Rahlgasse 5, Wien, 6. Bezirk 1060
Nr: 01 585664520
E-Mail: [email protected]
Article Credit: Milan Amini, BA
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