Who we are

The Associação Portuguesa de Spas, through its "Authentic Spa" seal, helps spa customers select units that guarantee the highest quality of service. Members of the association have the opportunity to apply for the quality seal if they meet a set of specific requirements.

Definition of Spa

A wellness center dedicated to prevention and to promote health through treatments with water and other holistic experiences, carried out by qualified professionals in a relaxing environment.

Requirements for a Spa

To qualify as a spa unit, compliance with several requirements is needed. The owners/workers of the spa are required to demonstrate compliance and will undergo an audit before being admitted and will depend on the segment type.

Contact us to know what the requirements are for the different types of spas.

The spas that adhere to this seal of quality are committed to carrying out the requirements and maintain the quality level. The Portuguese Spa Association periodically undergo audits of the spa association members to guarantee adherence to the standards of hygiene, the security of the installations as well as the equipment’s that contribute to relaxation and wellbeing.

APS mission

Mission

The mission of the Associação Portuguesa de Spas is to provide its members with the essential resources and tools needed to promote and publicize their spa units, with the primary objective of ensuring a quality experience for spa customers.

aps vision

Vision

Our goal is to position Portugal as an international reference in the health and wellness tourism sector through the provision of high-quality spa services and wellness experiences that meet rigorous certification standards.

APS Values

Values

Safety: Ensuring that customers can have confidence in choosing certified spas as a guarantee of a high-quality spa and wellness experience.
Professionalism: Making a commitment to the development of the spa and wellness sector in collaboration with our associate members, professionals, suppliers, and other stakeholders in this value chain.
Authenticity: Making decisions based on ethical and transparent behavior by all members of the association.
Sustainability: Promoting the sustainable development of the spa industry through an integrated vision of the economic, environmental, and social dimensions.

Benefits

Facilitating the client's selection and decision-making process based on their preferences and motivations by offering certified spa facilities and services.
Building trust among consumers for certified spa units and facilitating their loyalty to these facilities, thanks to the quality of their services and facilities with the Authentic Spa guarantee seal.
Contributing to the sustainable development of the spa and wellness industry in terms of environmental, social, and economic aspects.

Our inspiration

There were two main inspirations behind the creation of our brand. Firstly, the culture and history of Portugal, which is represented by the iconic Portuguese pavement and tiles. Secondly, the four elements of nature - fire, earth, air, and water - each of which is present in the main colors of the "Authentic Spa" brand. Our aim was to combine a historical and cultural narrative with a sensorial journey through the Spas of Portugal, celebrating the beauty and richness of our country's natural and cultural heritage.

APS Founding Members

The founding members of the Associação Portuguesa de Spas are professionals with over 15 years of experience in the spa industry, representing different key areas including spa consultancy, academic research, and spa chains in leading hotel groups with spa and thalassotherapy facilities.