If you asked what is on the top of most people’s dream vacation list, it likely has something to do with relaxation. Getting away from the daily grind of business meetings and traffic is very appealing – especially when the getaway includes beautiful scenery, luxury accommodations, and the world’s best spa treatments. Wellness retreats and destination spas are growing in popularity, as are the amenities that you’ll experience when you arrive. On these sorts of trips you’ll probably find extras like organic gourmet meals, complimentary yoga classes, the finest textiles, and even homemade snacks. Staff will be there to grant your every whim, and you’ll experience the ultimate in peace and tranquility.
We’ve searched out our favorite luxury spas in the world that we’d love to visit – here are our top ten picks.
Gwinganna Health Retreat
Located on Queensland’s Gold Coast in Australia, this spa sits on a plateau surrounded by ocean and valley views. The spa’s building was designed to be environmentally friendly and features 33 indoor/outdoor rooms. The focus is not only spa services, but also naturopathy, stress, and emotional wellness.
Rancho La Puerta
You’ll escape from life’s stress and distractions at this retreat located near San Diego, California. This ranch focuses on fitness and wellness in addition to health and beauty treatments unlike any other. The purity and freshness of ingredients is a great source of pride at the ranch.
W Retreat Koh Samui
Their AWAY spa is outfitted for total privacy and complete renewal. This retreat in Koh Samui, Thailand features five luxurious pavilions and seven treatment rooms. We’re most intrigued by their offering of Asia’s first Thaimazcal® herbal sauna/steam experience.
Thalatta Seaside Hotel
Visit the edge of the Aegean sea in the north corner of Greece to experience this spa and hotel. You’ll smell the salty air and the sweet pines as you relax on Agia Anna Beach between treatments. The objective of the staff is golden – “to cater to all of your needs.”
Ten Thousand Waves
This Japanese inspired spa is located outside of Sante Fe, New Mexico, ten minutes from the beautiful National Forest. Their luxury packages include private tubs, herbal wraps, therapeutic massage, and a “salt glow.” For those who want to feel young again, the cryostem cell treatment might be of interest.
The Chedi Andermant
For those who prefer snow covered luxury with mountain views, this alpine oasis is located in the Swiss mountains. You can ski and hike, then completely relax in Finnish saunas and organic steam baths. Don’t forget to do some sightseeing at Lucerne while you’re there.
Velaa Private Island Maldives
There are many private islands in the Maldives, but this is one of the few that is really private (and it’s owned by one person). You’ll dip your feet in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean during the day, then experience the spa in the later afternoon while enjoy freshly prepared juices or a bottle of champagne.
Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
The Deep Ocean Spa is the jewel of this hotel and resort. One of the most impressive features of this spa is not only the nature surrounding it, but the glass-floored over water bungalows where you can admire marine life while you receive treatments. Have you ever seen water this blue?
L’Auberge Del Mar
This was hot spot for Hollywood celebrities and Southern California locals since the 1920’s, fell into disrepair, and was completely renovated in 2008. Located 90 minutes south of Los Angeles, it occupies 5.2 acres with a private pathway to one of the best beaches in Cali. This resort goes by the mantra “relaxing by day, stylish by night.”
Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa
Located in Santiago, Chile, it offers magnificent views of the Torres del Paine National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1978. This spa is unique in that you can participate in several outdoor adventures during the day before relaxing with their professional services in the evening. Furnishings and textiles are handmade by Chilean craftspeople.
Which of these luxury spas will you visit? Your ultimate vacation awaits!
