The cover folds back away from the lounge, door panel, and control panel. I believe you can also request a cover that will fold side to side from your dealer. We did one for a customer at one of our other stores.
If you have 25" of clearance, the CoverCradle would be the #1 choice for a lifter. Otherwise, I would go with the CoverMate.
Most people enter the spa from the side you described. I just climb over the front and plop down in the lounge.
Good luck and enjoy the spa. It is a wonderful tub!
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