Health Update: Virgin Active unveils South Africa’s first social wellness club in Cape Town – What Experts Say

Virgin Active South Africa has launched its first Collection Country Club at the site of its Point club in Green Point, Cape Town in a move to redefine health and wellness, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Set to open its doors on 19 February 2026, the ambitious project represents a paradigm shift towards a holistic approach intertwining fitness, recovery, wellness, and community life.

With over R100 million invested in the expansive 5,500 m² facility, Virgin Active aims to create a social wellness club that goes beyond the traditional gym setting.

‘Our social wellness clubs have been reimagined as stunning spaces with exceptional hospitality. A place where training, recovery, wellness, and social connection are given equal importance,’ said Dean Kowarski, Virgin Active’s Global CEO.

‘It’s filled with spaces where people can be mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally well,’

Sir Richard Branson, the founder of the Virgin Group, echoed this sentiment, remarking on South Africa’s pivotal role in Virgin Active’s journey. ‘The Point Collection Country Club is a brilliant example of how Virgin Active continues to evolve and reimagine wellbeing for the future,’ he stated.

‘It’s a club where people can work out, unwind, work remotely, meet new friends and enjoy life— and that’s what wellness is all about,’

Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert! Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!

A comprehensive wellness offering

The Collection Country Club redefines wellness with a 360-degree approach, encompassing an impressive array of amenities:

• Performance and fitness: The facility boasts an expanded gym floor, a cardio zone, and a new Lift Club with advanced fitness equipment, alongside dedicated strength and conditioning areas and personal training services.
• Group exercise: Five studios will offer diverse classes such as Reformer Pilates, hot yoga, boxing, and meditative sound baths.
• Swimming: A 25m training pool, housing the Chad Le Clos Swim Academy, will cater to aspiring swimmers of all levels.
• Recovery and relaxation: The spa area will feature hot and cold contrast therapy, including saunas and hydromassage facilities.
• Outdoor and indoor play: Members can enjoy padel, pickleball, and tennis courts, as well as a functional training area in partnership with HYROX.
• Thrive and health support: On-site health professionals, including dieticians and sports scientists, will provide members with a comprehensive health suite.
• Nutrition and community connection: The NÜ Health Food Café will offer nutritious options, complemented by co-working spaces and social venues designed for community engagement.

The club has formed a partnership with Olympic gold medallist Chad Le Clos to launch the Virgin Active Chad Le Clos Swim Academy, emphasising accessibility to swimming training for all, from beginners to competitive athletes.

A new standard in social wellness

The Point Collection Country Club reflects a significant evolution of Virgin Active’s strategy over its three decades in South Africa, moving from a traditional gym offering to a vibrant social wellness hub.

‘Wellness isn’t merely about chasing intensity or short-term goals. It’s about balance, sustainability, and the long-term commitment needed for a healthy life,’ Kowarski asserted. ‘This club is a clear expression of that philosophy,’

Virgin Active is playing an essential role in fostering a culture of wellness in South Africa. According to Kowarski, ‘Health is a state of being at a point in time, while wellness is proactive and involves a lifelong journey to pursue a better self,’

The Point Collection Country Club aims to meet the increasing demand for multi-functional spaces where work-life and wellness can seamlessly coexist.

A commitment to Cape Town and beyond

Not only does the new club signal growth for Virgin Active, but it also underscores the company’s unwavering dedication to Cape Town and its surrounding communities.

The renovation aligns with the city’s status as a leading global wellness destination, highlighted by accolades such as Travel + Leisure Asia naming it best international city in 2025.

As Kowarski highlighted: ‘Our commitment goes beyond capital investment; we aim to use wellness as a tool to enhance lives in our community,’

The launch of the Point Collection Country Club marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Virgin Active, as it continues to roll out more upgrades and developments across South Africa throughout 2026.

Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join! 

Also read:

Cape Town gym aims to ignite fitness in celebration of Youth Month

Picture: Supplied