I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, a seasoned expert in hospitality and a prominent figure in the travel and tourism industry. With her deep knowledge of entertainment and events, particularly in expos and conferences, Katarina brings a unique perspective to the evolving world of wellness tourism. Today, we’re diving into the exciting launch of SubRosa, the new underground spa at The Grand, York. Our conversation explores the inspiration behind this luxurious retreat, its innovative approach to wellness, the unique treatments and facilities it offers, and how it blends historic charm with modern hospitality trends.
How did the concept of SubRosa come to life, and what inspired its name?
The name SubRosa, which translates from Latin as “under the rose,” really captures the essence of what we wanted to create—a hidden sanctuary of care and secrecy right beneath the bustling streets of York. It’s a nod to ancient Roman symbolism of nurture and confidentiality, which aligns with our mission to offer a deeply personal and rejuvenating experience. Additionally, the name ties into York’s historic emblem, the white rose, embedding a sense of local heritage into the spa’s identity. We wanted guests to feel they’re stepping into a space that’s both timeless and uniquely tied to the city’s story.
What sets SubRosa apart from other spas in the heart of a city like York?
SubRosa reimagines the city-center spa by literally taking wellness underground into the hotel’s historic vaults. This location creates an immediate sense of seclusion and tranquility, which is rare in an urban setting. We’re not just offering treatments; we’re crafting a full escape for the modern traveler who craves meaningful relaxation amidst a busy schedule. Our focus is on meeting evolving expectations with a fresh wellness philosophy that prioritizes both innovation and a deep connection to place.
Can you paint a picture of the three signature rituals—Rosa, Alba, and Radix—and what makes each one special?
Absolutely. Each ritual is tailored to different needs and timeframes. Rosa is a full-day journey, blending elegance with wellness through a 60-minute treatment, full spa access, and a shared Rasul ritual—perfect for someone looking to completely unplug. Alba, a half-day experience, is ideal for those needing a quick recharge with a 50-minute treatment, spa access, and lunch at our restaurant. Then there’s Radix, an evening reset with spa time, dinner, and a glass of Champagne, designed for guests wanting to wind down and prep for the next day. Each ritual is about renewal, tailored to fit into diverse lifestyles.
SubRosa offers some intriguing treatments like Mud Rasul and the Immersive Sunlight Experience. Can you dive into what these involve and why they were chosen?
We drew inspiration from both ancient and modern practices globally to create a diverse treatment menu. Mud Rasul is a cleansing ritual using mineral-rich muds, steam, and heat to ease muscle tension—a truly grounding experience. The Hammam purifies and calms with its traditional bathing ritual, while the Immersive Sunlight Experience uses light therapy to boost mood and energy, which is especially uplifting in darker months. We chose these to offer a balance of time-honored wellness and cutting-edge techniques, ensuring there’s something unexpected and transformative for every guest.
Tell us about the new facilities at SubRosa and how they enhance the guest experience.
The facilities are a cornerstone of SubRosa’s appeal. We’ve partnered with Yorkshire designers Curveline to bring in top-tier features like a Tirol hot sauna, a Himalayan salt sauna, a herbal steam room, and a large hydrotherapy pool, alongside relaxation rooms and foot spas. Each space is designed to flow seamlessly, creating a journey of relaxation. My personal favorite is the hydrotherapy pool—it’s a serene centerpiece that instantly soothes and revitalizes. These elements ensure guests have a comprehensive wellness experience in a beautifully crafted environment.
The new East Asian-inspired restaurant at SubRosa sounds fascinating. What can guests expect from the dining experience there?
We’re so excited about this addition. The restaurant offers a menu inspired by Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, and Korean cuisines, featuring a mix of sharing small plates and hearty larger dishes. It’s designed to complement the wellness theme by focusing on fresh, nourishing ingredients that energize the body. Dining here feels like an extension of the spa’s calming atmosphere, and it adds a new layer to The Grand’s already stellar food offerings. It’s about feeding both body and soul after a rejuvenating spa session.
With a £2.5 million refurbishment over six months, what were some of the hurdles you faced in bringing SubRosa to life?
Renovating a historic space like The Grand’s vaults came with its share of challenges. Working in such an old structure meant unexpected structural issues and the need to preserve architectural integrity while integrating modern spa technology. Balancing the historic legacy with a contemporary vision was a tightrope walk, but we stayed committed to honoring The Grand’s heritage through design elements and the overall concept. Every decision was made with an eye toward maintaining that timeless elegance while ensuring a cutting-edge guest experience.
Looking ahead, what’s your forecast for the future of wellness tourism in city-center destinations like York?
I believe wellness tourism in urban areas is poised for incredible growth. Travelers are increasingly seeking meaningful, accessible ways to prioritize self-care, even on short trips or business stays. City-center spas like SubRosa will play a huge role by offering immersive escapes without the need to leave the city. I foresee more hotels integrating holistic wellness into their core offerings, blending local culture and history with innovative treatments to create authentic, memorable experiences that resonate with today’s mindful traveler.
