7 Top Spa Retreats around the World (with Photos)

There is nothing that can compare to the absolute decadence of relaxing in one of the top spa hotels or day spas and indulging in a pampering regimen of soaks, wraps, massages and facials. Here is a list of arguably the top spa on each continent – so no matter where you find yourself, a day of blissful indulgence or a quick pick-me-up is just around the corner.

7. Stoke Park Spa

photo/Stoke Park

Consistently rated as one of Europe’s finest spas and always in the top ten in the UK, Stoke Park is a luxury hotel set in nearly 400 acres of parkland and historic gardens. With so many pampering treatments on offer, as well as excellent facilities, this is certainly one of the top spa hotels in the UK. Relax in the five meter tropical atrium, be soothed in the hydro-seat Jacuzzi or unwind in the beautiful steam rooms constructed from Italian marble.

6. Spa of Colonial Williamsburg

The Spa at Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia USA is something special. In a country manor setting, their signature treatments incorporate an interpretation of 17th century Powhatan Indian health practices, all while supporting the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, a charity that operates to preserve the historic capital city.

5. Cygalle Healing Spa

flickr/GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes

Staying in the America’s the Cygalle Healing Spa at Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic gives new meaning to the term ‘holistic’ – gardens onsite provide ingredients used in their body treatments and products, which are made up immediately before application, treatments can be carried out on the beach in private gazebos and all masseuses are trained by the world-renowned Leslie Bruder.

4. Pepper Mineral Springs Retreat

photo/Peppers

The award-winning Pepper Mineral Springs Retreat offers one of Australia’s most acclaimed spa resorts. In this rural haven you can experience the Southern hemisphere’s only lavender-infused basalt stone sauna, indulge in a Pevonia Botanica signature treatment and take high tea in tranquil and idyllic surroundings.

3. Chiva-Som

photo/Chiva Som

In Asia there are almost too many spa hotels and spa days to choose from, all offering variations of an east meets west philosophy with holistic treatments and traditional therapies. The Chiva-Som in Thailand is a haven of relaxation set against a backdrop of sparkling turquoise sea and golden sandy beaches. Try the signature Salt Scrub or an Oriental Foot Ritual.

2. Spa Hotel Levitunturi

photo/Spa Hotel Levitunturi

Travelling further north to the Arctic regions, touted as one of the most northern spa hotels in the world, Spa Hotel Levitunturi offers 17 pools of various sizes and temperatures as well as special saunas, aqua fitness and separate pools and activities for the children. Located in Finnish Lapland, the spa has several outdoor jacuzzi’s and pools; and there is arguably no better experience than floating in a cocoon of warm water surrounded by the snowy landscape of Lapland.

1. Le Boreal

flickr/George DeMet and Tiffany Farri

Finally, Antarctica… although only 200,000 people have set foot on this continent and there are no spa days or spa hotels to be found here, do not despair! When travelling to this icy continent the voyage is made by expedition or cruise ships and if careful about the choice of ship then there is no need to forgo the luxury of hot stone massage or soak in the hot tub. Le Boreal is an expedition ship with a difference, elegant accommodation, gourmet cuisine, library, heated pool, salon, fitness center and of course the spa and steam rooms; allowing guests to embark on a genuine adventure in comfort and style.