Need a little R&R post-Christmas? Our rundown of the world's most luxurious spas
The end of the year culminates in a holiday – but in fact it’s one of the most hectic months in our annual calendar. January therefore calls for rest, relaxation and reflection. There’s often pressure to ‘detox’ or lose weight – but it’s much better to focus on self-care, renewal from within with some much-needed relaxation. A spa day (or trip, if you have time!) is the perfect way to relax and unwind, treating yourself to some valuable me-time. Here in Switzerland we are fortunate enough to have some of the most luxurious spas in the world right on our doorstep. In this blog we share just a few of our favourites locally and further afield – to inspire you as you invest in a soothing start to 2019.
Les Bories & Spa, Provence, France
Nestled within the verdant green slopes of Provence, Les Bories & Spa is the ultimate luxury escape, offering international-inspired treatments in a stunning setting. It is set within 20 acres of aromatic gardens filled with fragrant blooms, featuring an indulgent array of treatments. Indoor and outdoor pools, spas and saunas offer plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind. Try a traditional Turkish bath, or sample haute cuisine at Les Bories Michelin starred restaurant.
Castello Del Nero, Italy
Prestigious Italian getaway Castello Del Nero offers a fairytale experience in the heart of Italy’s rolling Tuscan Hills. It is known internationally as one of the world’s most luxurious spas – and for its grand setting. The 12th Century castle sits within 740 acres of cypress trees, olive groves and vineyards, boasting a Michelin starred restaurant and individually designed rooms styled with sumptuous fabrics and luxuriously soft linens. Castello’s ESPA location offers a haven of calm and tranquillity, featuring relaxation areas looking out over its verdant vistas. Soothe the senses in the aromatic Turkish baths, sweat it out in the Laconium heat room or simply float your stresses away in the outdoor vitality pool, which looks out over the beautiful countryside beyond. A variety of signature treatments are available, including Castello’s very own ‘Relaxation Ritual’ using Extra Virgin Olive Oil harvested from the estate itself.
Panorama Resort and Spa, Feusisberg, Switzerland
This wonderfully unique spa offers a clue within its name – as it is situated at 700 metres above sea level in Feusisberg, offering romantic vistas over Lake Zurich. The minimalistic Japanese-inspired décor instils a sense of calm and tranquillity, and their Akari spa has a sophisticated ambience which provides a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Throughout the complex you’ll find a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, seven saunas and steam rooms and a Kneipp bath. Night owls can enjoy a stunning sunset before relaxing bathed in romantic lighting – with candlelit dinners available at the Restaurant Zafferno.
Sole Uno Wellness, Basel, Switzerland
Dubbed Sole Uno ‘Wellness World’, relaxation is the order of the day at this gorgeous spa situated in Rheinfelden, just a short drive from Basel. The huge facility boasts three types of saltwater pool, themed showers, a fire and ice pool, saunas and hammams. It takes inspiration from global rituals – notably those of Finland and Russia. Indulge in a treat for the senses with a Russian Birch Ritual, exhale stress and inhale vitality with an aromatic steam, or wash your cares away in their ‘tropical rain’ shower. Sole Uno’s upmarket surroundings provide the perfect pick-me-up, whether you choose to spend an hour or a day soaking up some self-care.