The best spas in the world for far-flung luxury
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If you’re sick of seeing avocados and humble brags about workouts on your Insta feed, you can only expect more to come — wellness is on the up, with celebs, influencers and beauty insiders alike espousing the healing virtues of everything from crystals to herbs, and every and any holistic approaches to feeling like yourself again.
Whether you’re in the know in the ashtanga and ashwagandha worlds, or wether you’re just looking for whatever is going to get you the real escapism — we’ve come up with a cunning plan so that rather than embark on some scary regime in the pursuit of superior wellness, you can instead combine a holiday with a side of serious spa joy. And we’ve even gone and tested a bunch to come up with this tight edit so that you know you won’t be getting a dud.
From luxurious retreats nestled in the mountains to serene coastal escapes, there will most certainly be a spa out there for you that offers the ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation you’re after. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a luxurious family gathering or a solo retreat, these top spas offer a wide range of treatments and services to help you unwind and refresh. With expert staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and breathtaking surroundings, these are the perfect destination for anyone seeking a little pampering and indulgence., and get ready to discover the world's best spas.
Some are a bit strict (see VivaMayr), some will send your Instagram likes into the stratosphere (see the Jumeirah Port Soller), while others a bit more of a pamper with an incredible view (step forward, Huvafen Fushi). Whichever way you go, there’s something on this list to leave you feeling completely restored. Oh, and leave your ‘gram looking pretty goals…
If you don't want to travel too far abroad, we've also rounded up the best spas in Europe and best spas in the UK for your pampering pleasure, too.
So sit back, relax and enjoy your massage.
Savoy Seychelles Resort & SPA, Seychelles
The vibe: Before we get into the facilities let’s start with the fact that this hotel and spa is located in a spot only comparable to paradise on earth. Featuring breathtaking views of the crystal clear western Indian ocean waters, or its very own tropical gardens, the location is simply unmatched.
The Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa is an idyllic retreat located on the stunning island of Mahé in the Seychelles, smack bang in the coast of the island. With the sand a short walk away, touching the hotel tiles, you can go from poolside to beachside in mere seconds. So close you can hear the splashing of the water and the birds chirping crisp clear. When we’re talking about relaxation, this is exactly what we mean.
The resort’s offering features not only a luxurious and secluded escape for guests but a wide range of amenities like multiple pools, jacuzzis, yoga classes, and more, as well as plentiful activities to enjoy. The resort's spa is therefore the most special place to relax. There you will find an abundant offering of skin and body treatments, including massages, facials, and manicures, all of which are expertly administered by highly trained therapists. There you will be able to book yourself in for a in-and-out 30 minute fresh facial, or an energising intensive treatment to the face, if you want to amp up the intensity. For body treatments, you will find a bit of everything. From an exfoliating massage, to a rescue sunburn body wrap (which may or may not come handy in the Seychelles heat) to even a moisturising coconut hair mask. No stone is left unturned. Fear not, the spa also extends its services for yoga classes, yogalates (a combination of yoga and pilates) and guided meditation. This is all, as well as many other essential salon services like manis and pedis.
The spa also features a sauna, steam room, and hot tub, as well as a fitness centre for guests who also choose to stay active.
The resort's dining options are also dreamy, with a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. The main restaurant serves a delicious selection of international and local cuisine, while the beachfront bar is the perfect spot for a tropical cocktail or a refreshing beer.
Guests can also enjoy a variety of fun and water led activities, such as snorkelling, diving, and deep-sea fishing. That is of course if they’re not busy simply relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun. Overall, the Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa is an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and relaxing escape in the beautiful Seychelles.
Come with: Yourself, because who says paradise is only for couples? Use this perfect occasion to find some peace and time to realign your chakras. However, it is also perfect for a romantic getaway or a sunny family escape.
Hero treatment: Crème De Coco De Mer Couple Indulgence — Start off this romantic experience with a footbath. With the coco de mer being the national fruit, this treatment involves having a delicate coconut scrub to gently clean the skin. Then follows a relaxing bath with coconut milk, vanilla oil and honey, while you enjoy a refreshing ice tea with lemongrass and ginger. The treatment wraps up after an 80-minute couple massage with coconut leaves oil which makes your skin smooth and resilient.
You'll leave feeling: Replenished, tanned and rejuvenated.
The Residence Mauritius Spa, Mauritius
The vibe: There is nothing like stepping foot into paradise while being pampered with sun, luxury, outdoor yoga classes and plentiful massages.
The Residence Mauritius is a remarkable resort located in the beautiful island of Mauritius and is surrounded by tropical gardens, and pristine white sandy beaches that cover the surroundings coast-to-coast. The accommodation itself is spacious, cozy and elegantly designed featuring the most breathtaking views.
When it comes to staff, be sure to have access to the best if the best. Attentive and incredibly friendly, always ready to go above and beyond to ensure that your experience is as memorable, comfortable and enjoyable as possible. There is a butler service available that can cater to your needs from topping up the mini fridge to setting up a warm and calming bubble bath.
In The Residence Mauritius Spa you will be showered with top of the class therapists, which are all highly skilled, attentive and oh-so welcoming. The treatments can be customised to each individual’s needs and are designed to promote optimum relaxation and offer you your most serene and rejuvenating experience yet.
Upon entry you the interiors are decorated to offer a peaceful surroundings, making it the perfect place to unwind and recharge. The Residence Mauritius also offers a wide range of activities, which include water sports (kayaking, snorkelling, paddle boarding amongst others). They also have an epic golf course and tennis courts. They also offer an adorable kids club filled with games, toys and activities for young children all the way to teens.
The combination of beautiful surroundings, excellent service, and a wide range of activities make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. This is a one of a kind relaxing and indulgent spa experience.
Come with: Friends, family or your better half.
Hero treatment: “Mom or Dad and Me” — With this 60 mins treatment, treat your child (5 to 15 years old) to experience a soft and gentle spa indulgence accompanied by a parent. The choices include body massage, aromatic facials, mini manicures, mini pedicures, Henna tattoo, yoga and personalised physical training.
You'll leave feeling: Cool, calm and collected
Alma Jesolo Resort & Spa, Venice
The vibe: The ultimate in understated luxury. Whether you’re traveling with family, your significant other or just going solo, Almar Jesolo has something for everyone in this beautiful beachfront, ocean-facing resort. The quietly-stylish decor is designed to let the blue from the ocean stand out, hence turquoise accents running throughout the interiors. A very nice touch if you ask me.
But what’s a first class resort without a multi-award winning spa, also known as the Soul of Wellness. The Spa has a Finnish sauna, a Soft sauna and a Himalaya salt sauna. It's got 3 steam baths - a traditional steam bath, a Turkish salt bath, and a Mediterranean bath. It also has Kneipp therapy pools, an ice room, geysers and multi-sensory showers and 9 treatment cabins to literally pamper yourself into oblivion. They even have their own formulation of prestigious beauty products made from locally sourced seaweed algae to rejuvenate stressed skin. I can confidently say it lives up to its reputation! The rooms are so tranquil, I challenge anyone to get more restful sleep on the quality bed and pillows.
But the true 5 star rating is the service. Every aspect of the resort experience has been met with care and respect that’s first-class. There’s a great sense of pride, passion and genuine love from the staff who work there. The Mediterra restaurant will be serving up some truly irresistible delights, from traditional Venetian to fusion dishes that will definitely broaden your culinary horizons. What’s even better is that the food and wine is locally sourced.
If you do get bored easily and go searching for some culture to break up the days, then the quickest and chicest way to the iconic city of Venice is by water taxi! Get yourself a Venetian tour guide (theitaliantours.com) to get the true “local” experience and when in Venice, ride a gondola so you can tick it off the bucket list!
Come with: Yourself; solo traveling has never been more popular and what better reason to focus on you and the joy of savouring one’s own time? So if you are looking for a break with a wellness focus then this is it. A great deal of thought and attention goes into making guests feel cared for and listened to, demonstrating that wellbeing is a priority rather than an afterthought. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus all offer wellness options that can even rival a la carte dishes. The plating and finesse from the chefs is top notch.
Hero treatment: “The Magic of Silence” massage and sleep improvement program that’s designed for people who suffer from insomnia or do not rest well. My personal favourite was the "Reflections of Self” 90min massage based on the Ying and Yang of traditional Chinese medicine, aimed to restore harmony along the body’s meridian points.
You'll leave feeling: Like you've hit the body and mind rest button... rebalanced and detoxified!
Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa, Mallorca
The vibe: Firstly, this is hands-down the most Instagrammable hotel we've been to in a really long time. Built on a cliff overlooking the picturesque fishing village of Port de Sóller, Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa floats between the sea and the sky. Surrounded by the Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the resort offers the most incredibly stunning and unique getaway in the Med.
From cool towels and the deliciously sweet fresh local orange juice on arrival to the dates on your bed for your turndown service, the service is impeccable. Kick off the day tucking into your breakfast overlooking the incredible ocean before adjourning to the infinity pool for a chilled glass of rosé (and Insta shoot, naturally). Then spend an hour in the spa indulging in a relaxing massage, make full use of the amazing spa facilities (experience shower, anyone?) before moving outside to the seriously aesthetically-pleasing outdoor spa pool complete with a huge hot tub overlooking the sea.
Evenings can be spent taking in even more sea views at the prestigious Es Fanals by Javier Soriano restaurant, which uses the highest quality local produce to serve up flavourful Spanish courses complemented by local wines; think warm breads served with a selection of local olive oils, deliciously fresh fish and experimental desserts. After dinner, roll home to your slick room, which houses one of the comfiest beds we've ever slept in and incredible shower with - you guessed it - ocean views.
Come with: Someone who loves the 'wow factor'. From the jaw-dropping views and impeccable hospitality, this hotel will impress and delight in equal measure.
Hero treatment: 3 Aromas Massage. You really ought to treat yourself by indulging in a Talise Signature massage - a luxurious treat that's a fusion of the best oriental and occidental massage techniques. This one uses 3 essential oils that are personalised to cater your individual needs. Trust us when we say it's one of the most invigorating treatments we've tried.
You'll leave feeling: Like you need to book to come back to this unreal hotel the same time next year. See you there?
The vibe: Bringing its personality-packed brand of glam to Australia’s sunshine state, W Hotel opened in June 2018 as the first five-star hotel to hit the city in 20 years – and its certainly turned up the heat. Fusing a vibrant ‘River Dreaming’ design theme with a nod to classic Australian culture and a cool pool party scene, the result is fun, bold and unapologetically Brisvegas. Beyond the buzz, W’s signature chill vibes are found in the AWAY spa, where guests can destress (and detox) with an innovative Inner/Outer/After glow treatment, or unwind in the vitality pools, relaxation pods and aromatherapy steam rooms. The pampering hub is also home to Edwards and Co – a leading name in Australia’s salon industry.
Come with… your Insta A-game. From the skyline-slash-river views, in-suite cocktail stations (starring hot pink pineapples) and a ‘ripper’ High Tea, to the wall of Aussie slang quotes and psychedelic pool deck, there’s more #hotelW hotspots than we could shake a selfie stick at.
Hero treatment: W Brisbane is well worth the journey but once checked-in, chances are there’ll only be on thing (besides a giant bed) with your name on it: a Jet Lag Recovery Massage. The ginger, angelica and lemongrass essence Sodashi products (100% natural and vegan, FYI) will help boost alertness, while a therapist works at soothing post-flight muscular tension and stimulates key energy points to clear the travel fog. Later, feeling less wonky, we went back for the mineral-rich Oxy Glamour Glow Facial. Well, it would have been rude not to.
You’ll leave feeling… Refreshed, revived – and ready to party.
Spa Metropole by Givenchy, Monaco
The vibe: Laidback Riviera style made achingly chic thanks to the input of a host of stylish folk from Karl Lagerfeld to Didier Gomez with an injection of Givenchy in the spa, you can expect everything here to be impeccable and tasteful.
Come with… A dazzling wardrobe - you’ll need it, given that the hotel is just off Place de Casino and a mere stroll away from iconic Port Hercules.
Hero Treatment: If you’re ever going to go for it, this palace of excess is the place to do it, so we’d recommend going for the 2-hour face and body Le Skin Noir Renaissance Integrale Givenchy treatment to leave your skin and muscles feeling buttery soft.
**You’ll leave feeling…**Pampered AF. And probably a bit unwilling to go home.
Anazoe Spa at Costa Navarino, Greece
The vibe: Perched on the Pelponnese peninsula lie two linked hotels comprising Costa Navarino, where you’ll find all the ingredients for a restorative holiday including a panoply of eateries like a traditional taverna and series of village-style cafes, many swimming pools (some even coming off the back of hotel rooms), and, yes, an impressive 4000 square metre spa. But don’t let its scale fool you - the attention to detail at Costa Navarino is impressive, with everything geared towards showcasing and preserving this beautiful part of Greece.
Come with… Anyone in need of a proper holiday and keen on all things Greek - there’s more than a whiff of Mama Mia about this one.
Hero Treatment: Olive trees are a key part of the Costa Navarino mission - in order to build the golf courses, they uprooted and replanted hundreds to preserve them, and now harvest their own olive oil. The signature Oleotherapy treatment makes use of the healing, antioxidant properties of the oil, so book in for that.
You’ll leave feeling… Healthier - all that fresh Greek food and time in the warm Ionian Sea is a great tonic if you’ve been under the weather.
Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
The vibe: A knot of 43 bungalows sit on this private island that’s a serious departure from real life. The underwater spa takes things a bit further - not only can you have a stellar treatment, but you can have it while gazing into the depths of the blue ocean as fish shimmy on by.
Come with… Your phone - if you’re after a brilliant shot for your feed, you’ll find views worthy of sharing everywhere. But also take someone you like enormously, because the island is secluded and very much somewhere to go and relax.
Hero Treatment: Time your stay around one of Teresa Tarmey’s residencies. The facialist to mega stars like Sienna Miller and Poppy Delevingne, Teresa wields a laser like no other - and if you were ever going to have down-time for your skin to replenish post-treatment, you’ll have it here.
You’ll leave feeling… Completely and utterly blissed out.
Terre Blanche Hotel and Spa, France
The vibe: Nestled in a particularly picturesque part of Provence, everything about Terre Blanche is chic with a capital C. The spa is enormous, with a manicured ‘zen space’ outside from which you can sip lemon tea in the balmy weather, while the rooms, complete with terracotta terraces on which you can enjoy many croissants in the morning, are sumptuous and ripe for a sneaky Instagram shot. Remember to pack your bikini - the incredible Art Deco swimming pool is impossible to resist.
Come with… Someone who’s into the good life with whom you can enjoy the spa, the wine, the freshly-baked bread, and the local market selling juicy fruit and hand-embroidered smocks.
Hero Treatment: A massage at Terre Blanche is a thing of joy as the therapists tailor the treatments to your ailments, so you can go and choose something to both relieve aching muscles and leave you feeling sprightly in one session. Also, the scented, 100% natural oils smell heavenly.
You’ll leave feeling… Desperate to book back in. And mellow. Very mellow.
Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt, Austria
The vibe: Don’t think of the Stanglwirt as a hotel - it’s more a sprawling eco-friendly, homely series of wooden buildings - with some seriously luxe additions. There’s the bar with a glass wall so you can watch the snow white Lippizaner horses practising routines, an enormous spa comprising a series of grotto-like steam and saunas, a lake water-filled outdoor plunge pool, tennis courts overlooking the mountain range, and the comfiest beds you can imagine.
Come with… Your family - there’s something for everyone at this place.
Hero Treatment: Facialist to many an A-lister (think Emma Roberts, Elle MacPherson, and Gwyneth) Dr. Barbara Sturm has brought her famous Molecular Facial to the Stanglwirt, so book in for that if you’re after a firming, deeply hydrating treatment.
You’ll leave feeling… Much fitter - all that jumping in and out of the various pools and trying all the variety of gym facilities make for great tone that you get without putting in too much effort.
The Original VivaMayr FX, Austria
The vibe: Medical clinic par excellence meets lakeside retreat. The intention of their famous ‘Mayr cure’ programme is not merely to pamper and cosset, but rather to fully overhaul - think lessons in chewing, colonics, should you need one, a room for vitamin infusions, and a whole range of holistic therapies spanning everything from craniosacral therapy to nasal reflexology all designed to reset and restore ruffled nerves and muddled digestive systems.
Come with… Either someone you’re on fairly intimate terms with, or alone: part of the signature VivaMayr treatment is the guzzling of Epsom salts to flush out the system, so you can expect lots of trips to the loo and a fair amount of scatological chat among guests.
Hero Treatment: The stomach massage. Alright, it’s technically not a treatment but rather a diagnostic method used daily by the doctors to ascertain how the cure is progressing and how your organs are responding, but it’s oddly relaxing and really very soothing.
You’ll leave feeling… Utterly renewed - it may be hardcore, but it truly works and has accordingly amassed an army of famous VivaMayr devotees rumoured to include everyone from Kate Moss and Jourdan Dunn to Lisa Eldridge and Liz Hurley.
The Apurva Kempinski Bali
The Vibe: People head to Bali for the beach and the boujee cocktails, but if it’s luxury you’re after remember two words: Apurva Kempsinki. Translating literally to ‘unique’ and ‘magnificent’, this resort certainly lives up to its name, and you could probably add in an ‘oooh’ as well. The sheer scale of the resort is truly impressive, it boasts a 60 meter pool (swim laps if you will but it’s mostly for the ‘gram), it’s own chapel (should you feel the need to get hitched right there and then) and its very own beach club all within in walking radius. The place is so ginormous it actually takes 17 mins to walk from the entrance to the edge of the beach front but the slight hike is worth it for the view. The ascending architectural design, inspired by the iconic steps of Balinese water terraces, are actually guest suites with private plunge pools. Every inch of the place brings the island philosophy to life; the interconnection of God, people and the universe. The rich-indigenous heritage continues through to the interior design of the hotel, and the result is the epitome of beachfront luxury and understated-opulence, a true feast for the eyes.
You’ll be able to sample the best of traditional Indonesian dishes or international cuisines at the Pala restaurant, located right next to the pool that has a sophisticated rooftop bar - perfect for that pool-to-bar experience. If relaxation is the name of the game then head to The Apurva Spa for an pampering experience that’s tailored just for you.
Come with… Your significant other; you can hold each others phone to capture the best gram content as well as enjoying ‘holiday vibes’ and spending quality t.i.m.e with one another. The views, the experiences and the memories aren’t as special if you can’t share it with someone important.
Hero treatment: “Awakening the Chakra sprit” a 3-hour Balinese purification ritual, believe to protect a person from negative forces by unblocking and awakening the major Chakras through it’s signature treatment; that begins with a soothing massage, into a detoxifying scrub called Lulur, followed by a healing body wrap and ends an hour yoga-meditation session. Not to mention being supplied a healthy supply of Jamu, a local herbal tonic of turmeric, ginger roots and tamarind to keep you hydrated and feeling energised!
**You’ll leave feeling…**Rejuvenated, grounded and balanced. Can’t stop you now!
Grand Hotel Tremezzo, Lake Como, Italy
The vibe: Classic European palace elegance all the way, a sense of grandeur and a view you'd kill your grandma for. Set in a prime location on the shores of Lake Como, Grand Hotel Tremezzo is the last word in luxury in one of Italy's most sought-after spots.The award-winning T spa is as seamlessly sophisticated and sumptuous as the rest of the hotel. There are heat treatments in Turkish baths, Mediterranean steam rooms and a sauna that boasts an unfettered view of the lake. There are marble hammam rooms and luxurious special suites built for two, with whirlpool tub, sauna, steam bath, contrast cascade shower and amazing couples massages.
The lake is one of this spa's unique selling points; especially their stunning infinity pool, which makes you feel as though you could swim straight from the pool into Como's deep blue waters. You'll appreciate it even more after enjoying any one of the spa's amazing and specially-curated treatments, from olive oil or Thai massages and hot stone treatments.
Come with: your significant other. What could be more romantic than a couples massage followed by pasta and Aperol Spritzes on a terrace overlooking Lake Como? Nothing. Exactly.
Hero treatment: Any of the various massages and facials that celebrate the hotel's new partnership with Santa Maria Novella. One of the world's oldest operational pharmacies, the brand was first founded in 1612 by Florence-based Dominican monks who discovered how to harness the natural benefits of organic floral and herbal ingredients, including orange blossom, rosewater and iris powder. They have created a special line of treatments to complement the unique Lake Como surroundings, including a body candle that melts into luxurious massage oils.
You'll leave feeling: totally relaxed, well-fed, smug and happy.
