Inside the world’s most high-end spas

Peek inside the world’s most high-end spas

Words: Alice B-B Producer: Bianca Farmakis

The advent of a New Year sparks a desire to soothe, recover and relax from the months prior. Hence, our minds may gravitate towards the breeding ground of all things to do with being zen: the spa. Video: Instagram | Sha Wellness Clinic

While pampering is not far from proximity in our own backyard, the top tier spas and wellness retreats span from the highest mountains in Italy to the coldest spheres of Iceland. Here is a glimpse into the world’s best spas designed to replenish and rejuvenate. Video: Instagram | Nihi Sumba

On a hilltop an hour from Rome sits Palazzo Fiuggi, the elegant wellness retreat known as a haven for healing since the 14th century (Michelangelo was a reputed fan). Ancient remedies are combined with cutting-edge treatments for immune strengthening and cell rejuvenation. Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy Video: Instagram | Palazzo Fiuggi

Home to a super-luxe lakeside retreat with 68 sumptuously designed suites, Sangha offers treatments with an impressive fusion of Eastern and Western approaches. A subterranean spa boasts a herbal steam room, dry-heat laconicum, and an immune-boosting Himalayan salt cave. Sangha, China Sangha, China Video: Instagram | Sangha Retreat

Crystal-clear water gently laps at the banks of Lake Lucerne at the foot of a turreted fairytale castle. Henri Chenot, who inspired the spa's program, was one of the original wellness visionaries. His advice is paired with the latest technology, and daily lake swims. Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland Video: Instagram | Chenot Palace Weggis

Since opening in the hills of Alicante in 2008, the clinic offers a new post-Covid program. Painless remedies help alleviate the long-term effects of the virus. Book a corner suite for 270-degree views of the Mediterranean and Sierra Helada mountain range. Sha Wellness Clinic, Spain Sha Wellness Clinic, Spain Video: Instagram | Sha Wellness Clinic

While this place is about detoxing, it’s the opposite of an impersonal medispa. Yeotown takes just 12 guests in rooms that vary from cosy cottages to swanky cabins with a freestanding tub and swing seat. It’s an intimate and inspiring place to relax. Yeotown, England Yeotown, England Video: Instagram | Yeotown

Based in the heart of Sparta, Euphoria's adrenaline-packed programs are inspired by the region’s warrior ancestors. Guests conquer peaks and scale rocky façades under the tutelage of a local Greek hunk. Euphoria, Greece Euphoria, Greece Video: Instagram | Euphoria

The Indonesian island of Sumba is where you’ll find the world’s sexiest spa. Unlimited treatments are offered daily, afternoon naps are taken beside a waterfall pool, and in the evening, above the pristine beach is the spa’s only stay – a secluded villa with a canopy and private plunge pool. NihiOka, Sumba NihiOka, Sumba Video: Instagram | Nihi Sumba

Guests at this converted sheep farm in northern Iceland are the kind of high achievers who don’t fare well when told they “Just need to relax”. The program is about making small science-backed lifestyle adjustments that trigger a boost in overall health. Deplar Farm, Iceland Deplar Farm, Iceland Video: Instagram | Eleven Experience