For the past few months, we've been made to refocus on the importance of health. But we believe looking after ourselves - both physically and mentally - should always be a priority. Whether you're seeking a short-haul detox in the sunshine, or an all-encompassing spa sojourn on far away shores, we have destinations that promise much-needed downtime with undeniable indulgence.
For: Island Wellness
Echoing this idyllic island's mantra of the 'Joy of Living', JOALI Maldives spa sanctuary encourages complete relaxation whilst awakening the body and stimulating the mind. The cleverly designed JOALI Spa by ESPA's menu features exclusive rituals that promise to reconnect you with your mind and body, incorporating modern wellness techniques with traditional holistic therapies influenced by the Maldives - all of which can be enjoyed in one of spa's eight treatment rooms, or in the comfort and privacy of your own villa. There's also an outdoor spa pool, steam room and sauna for total tranquillity, all affording gorgeous views of the seemingly endless Indian Ocean.
Post treatment, hide away amongst the foliage in the utter serenity of the relaxation lounge, or venture to the "little corner of cure" in the Spa Healing Garden, where you'll find homegrown ingredients to aid nearly every ailment. At JOALI, fitness is another mindset - so, after soothing at the spa, why not head to the fitness centre for one-to-one personal training or perhaps a Pilates class, or seek out the floating yoga pavilion to stretch with spectacular views?
For: Natural Beauty
Serenely set overlooking white sands and glistening turquoise waters, Cara Organic Beauty Spa at Carlisle Bay believes feeling fantastic is fundamental to your health. Partnered with renowned brand ESPA, indulge at this relaxing retreat and you'll be guided into a world of pure harmony by a holistic philosophy. Relish a regenerating, refining or firming facial, or more focused treatments like eye lifts or skin analysis, all utilising natural skincare products that work deep beneath the surface for intensive long-term care.
And it doesn't stop there. Carlisle Bay's approach to natural luxury wellbeing goes far beyond the spa; wander to the quietest corner of the resort's tropical gardens and you'll find the Yoga Pavilion, where both private and group yoga and Pilates classes take place from sunrise to sunset. Those seeking more exertive exercise can work up a sweat in the spacious and well-equipped fitness centre, grab a racquet for a match on one of nine tennis courts, or head out for a guided rainforest hike, boasting a bird's-eye-view of Antigua's spectacularly scenic southern coastline.
For: Renowned Relaxation
Experience legendary, Asian-inspired wellness in the middle of the postcard-perfect Indian Ocean. The world-renowned COMO Shambhala concept focuses on the best possible therapies for body, mind and face, and it's no different at COMO Maalifushi. The island's COMO Shambhala Retreat features overwater pavilions that soak up the sound of the waves and the ocean breeze, providing the perfect place to relish a countless choice of curated treatments; experience an exfoliating COMO Shambala bath, purify your skin with a Sundãri facial, or unwind with a strong and invigorating Balinese 'taksu' massage.
![Shambhala Treatment at COMO Maalifushi]()
Shambhala Treatment at COMO Maalifushi
However, this well-developed concept understands there's more to wellness than simply spa treatments. COMO Shambhala Cuisine is a unique approach to nutrition that utilises organic ingredients rich in living enzymes, vitamins and sea minerals, creating temptingly tasty dishes that carefully cleanse the body - from freshly blended juices and creamy dairy-free porridge, to delicious desserts including coconut sorbet and wholewheat waffles. Of course, rebalancing the mind is important too, which is why guided classes including yoga, Pilates and Pranayama with one-to-one tuition are also available to help you heal whilst discovering the benefits of these ancient disciplines.
For: Traditional Thai Therapy
Noted as one of the world's finest spa hotels, flagship favourite Banyan Tree Phuket is the definition of pure escapism. This sanctuary for the senses celebrates the art of touch and uses mostly natural and native ingredients, with a holistic focus for complete head-to-toe renewal. Upon arrival at the resort's Banyan Tree Wellbeing Sanctuary, design your personal itinerary with a wellness consultant before immersing yourself in treatments including traditional Thai massages, soothing body conditioners and time-honoured therapies from wellness-focused cultures in destinations including China, Indonesia, and of course, Thailand.
Throughout your stay, you'll be treated to a calendar of seemingly endless complimentary wellbeing activities, including posture alignment, sleep meditation, Thai boxing and scenic bicycle rides through the local neighbourhood. Even when you're not seeking relaxation at this luxury resort, you can't help but find it - listen to the bird song as you indulge in breakfast by the pool, smell the aromatic flowers blossoming in the surrounding tropical gardens and soak up much-needed solitude in your villa's private swimming pool, with nothing to disturb you except the call of your next luxury spa treatment.
For: Sicilian Serenity
Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel is home to the elegant Verdura Spa, comprised of several pavilions set around a striking open-air courtyard, surrounded by olive groves and orange trees. Therapies here focus on the careful fusion between inherited wisdom, natural goodness and pioneering science, designed to unify physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Luxurious Irene Forte Skincare products embrace the natural splendour of Sicily and its nourishing ingredients, including botanicals grown on Verdura's very own organic farm. Locally inspired treatments include a unique olive oil body ritual and a massage using oils from Sicily's sun-drenched flora.
The relaxation doesn't stop at the massages, though, as the Vedura Spa also flaunts four alfresco thalassotherapy pools, a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness studio and serene Spa Bar with a terrace overlooking the mountains - the perfect place to sip a super-fresh juice made using, you guessed it, local ingredients. Dedicated wellness programmes are created individually according to your needs, each one focusing on a different pillar of wellbeing - from healthy living to relaxation to a dedicated golfer's regime.
For: Geothermal Rejuvenation
You'll no doubt recognise images of Iceland's world-famous Blue Lagoon, a unique geothermal spa set in the heart of the volcanic Icelandic landscape. A stay at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon invites you to escape the crowds and enjoy exclusive access to a more secluded pool that flows from the same mineral-rich waters as the Blue Lagoon itself. Wander through lava canyons and hidden corridors, taking time to bathe in the healing waters and breathe in the pure Icelandic air - a unique experience for both body and mind.
![Lagoon Suite at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon]()
Lagoon Suite at The Retreat at Blue Lagoon
Experience the elements as you partake in The Blue Lagoon Ritual, an exhilarating treatment that uses three of the lagoon's natural components. The first, silica, the lagoon's iconic white mineral, cleanses and strengthens your skin. Next, the algae renews and moisturises your skin, while the water's minerals are used to exfoliate and energise. Other massages and beauty treatments can also be enjoyed, while the unique steam cave and invigorating cold well combine to create a truly rejuvenating experience.