TOP LAVISH SPA TREATMENTS YOU HAVE GOT TO EXPERIENCE

Wellness travel has most definitely evolved into a category unto itself, offering travelers heightened levels of relaxation, glowing physical results and transformational experiences that go beyond treatment rooms, to serve body, mind and spirit. Whether it’s spending a few hours at a spa or committing to a full-on retreat-style stay, guests are able to savor an undoubtedly restful holiday with wellness programs from leading resorts around the world. With so many to choose from, we’re highlighting some of our most-favorite and not-to-be-missed options for travelers seeking rest, rejuvenation and more.

THE FAVORITES

Customized Treatments Carlton Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland

Only open during a short window from December to March, this exclusive ski-resort offers a spa inspired by nature and backed by science, to promote holistic healing. Guests can connect with the power of their surroundings and indulge in personalized treatments that take place at the property’s nearly 13,000-square-foot wellness area, spanning three floors of the resort, and which comes complete with amenities like steam baths, saunas, hydro massage showers, Jacuzzi, pools, sun terrace and treatment rooms.

Cenote Healing Retreat Rosewood Mayakoba, Mexico

In this idyllic setting on the Riviera Maya, guests can partake in a variety of wellness offerings. The two-day Cenote Healing Retreat, inspired by Maya shamanic rituals, taps into the spiritual energy and power of cenotes, and includes energy-healing rituals, meditation, sound baths and cleansing plunges into cenote waters on the property as well as secret cenotes off-site. Guests feel invigorated, inspired and recharged emotionally.

MUST-TRY SPOTLIGHT

Biohacking Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

The spa and wellness program at Six Senses Douro Valley is unlike any other with offerings that range from traditional, to cutting edge advancements. This luxury property caters to all facets of personal wellness and is a rich immersion for all the senses.

Honoring Portuguese tradition, and the elements of water, stone and wood, they call it “rural relaxation”. But there is no shortage of simple luxury with the well-appointed spa facility, variety of wellness programs, and expert-led retreats. While skilled-care is applied to all skin-focused and body treatments, the variety of health experiences is beyond impressive, with unique offerings focused on immunity, brain health, heart and emotional connection, fitness, sleep, detox, holistic anti-aging, and pets – yes, pets!

Among the most impressive inclusions on the wellness and spa menu are biohacking treatments. Biohacking takes shortcuts to better wellness by “hacking” the body’s natural recovery system allowing improved health, balance and energy. Two targeted treatments are on offer: cellgym oxygen therapy and normatec acupressure boots – which can result in a long list of health improvements. If the biohacking treatments sound too advanced, opt for a one-off signature treatment or a targeted program where your daily schedule could include a variety of treatments, workouts and experiences.

The Power of Shiatsu Aman Kyoto, Japan

Positioned among 17 Unesco World Heritage Sites and a golden Temple, Aman Kyoto rests in a secret garden at the heart of a forest, setting the stage for a tranquil, private and healing spa experience. The menu of services is extensive, yet all built on four pillars of wellness: nutrition, movement, psychological health and bodywork.

One of the property’s unique characteristics is its mineral rich waters and natural hot springs. Japanese Onsen bathing is known for its healing, relaxation and many other health benefits. Guests are invited to soak in the healing waters and immerse themselves in a bathing culture that dates back to the sixth century from Buddhist cleansing rituals.

The Shiatsu massage is a favored specialty at Aman Kyoto, and is an intuitive technique, based on the same principles as acupuncture. The powerful treatment aims to restore the flow of energy in the body and is known to improve muscle tone, strengthen immunity and dispel stress. This Japanese wellness service is a must-try for those who can while visiting. For those seeking something different, there is a multitude of pampering offerings to choose from, including fully customizable treatment journeys.

Between the carefully curated wellness activities, luxurious accommodations and the blissfully idyllic setting, there’s an undeniable serenity to be found, and a peace guests take with them, long after they leave.

Is it any surprise that spa and wellness travel is one of the fastest growing niches in tourism? To be able to explore an exciting destination, while taking the opportunity to care for one’s self intentionally, is truly a luxurious vacation. And with such variety and levels of immersion, there’s a wellness experience for everyone. Whether your next journey is steeped in science, nature, or ancient ritual, there may be no healthier way to vacation.