These five luxury hotels offer everything from in-water massages to purifying Merlot body wraps that are sure to leave you feeling better than ever.
By Leigh Crandall
Energy Therapy at Amangani
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Nestled in the woods at the foot of the Tetons, Jackson Hole’s Amangani celebrated its 20th anniversary this year with a new spa that boasts a lengthy menu of unique energy therapy treatments. A chakra balancing session ($250) harmonizes the body’s energy, while a 90-minute, therapeutic cupping treatment ($300) uses a combo of massage and clinical cups to increase blood flow and promote healing. Post-treatment, spa visitors can take in the grand views of the surrounding mountains from the outdoor pool and Jacuzzi. From $800 per night.
Ayurveda at Taj Lake Palace
Udaipur, India
Developed in India thousands of years ago, Ayurveda is one of the world’s most ancient healing methods and is based on the belief that total health and wellness requires a balance of mind, body and spirit. Ayurveda therapies, particularly massage, are at the center of Taj Jiva Spas. Begin a visit with Abhyanga (treatments from $65), a selection of treatments in which medicated oils are applied in gentle, downward strokes to help encourage sleep, increase appetite and reduce stress. Follow with Mukhalepa (treatments from $47), a variety of facials that use natural herbs and saffron oil to help remove blemishes and invigorate skin, and finally Snana (manicures and pedicures start at $25), traditional baths with herbal paste and medicinal water designed to keep the relaxation and wellness benefits going. Taj Lake Palace also offers treatments aboard the Jiva Spa Boat, which features an outdoor soaking tub and spacious deck that’s perfect for a post-treatment glass of wine while cruising Lake Pichola. From $500 per night.
Vinothérapie at Les Sources de Caudalie
Bordeaux-Martillac, France
Positioned within the Grand Cru vineyards of Château Smith Haut Lafitte, the Vinothérapie Spa at Les Sources des Caudalie combines the benefits of naturally hot, mineral-rich spring water with spa products created from the surrounding vines. Opt for one of the Vinothérapie Rituals (about $260), a half day of pampering that includes a barrel bath enriched with grape marc and red vine extracts, a purifying merlot body wrap, and the signature facial treatment designed to accelerate cellular renewal and improve skin’s texture via massage. Take in vineyard views from the indoor pool and, while you’re there, be sure to save time for a cooking class, and a chance to meet Nicolas Masse, chef at the two-star Michelin-rated La Grand’Vigne restaurant.
From $276 per night.
DNA Retreat at Four Seasons Punta Mita
Punta Mita, Mexico
At Four Seasons Punta Mita, guests can put the power of genetics to work to optimize their health during the myDNA Retreat ($2,066). One month prior to your stay, a test will be sent to you—and then you’ll receive a call from the hotel’s wellness curator, who will walk you through the easy cheek swab test. Results are then mailed to a lab in London and, 20 days later, you (and the wellness curator), will receive the results via email. Your workout routines and meal programs will be tailored specifically to you, and be ready upon your arrival in Mexico. Expect personal training sessions, bespoke meals, yoga lessons, spa treatments and more during a six-night stay—as well as plenty of downtime on the beach.
From $695 per night.
In-Water Massage at The Retreat Hotel
Grindavik, Iceland
Iceland’s Blue Lagoon has long been a destination for
wellness travelers who swear by the therapeutic effects of the geothermal seawaters to refresh and rejuvenate the skin. Spring 2018 saw the opening of the Retreat Hotel and Spa, an exclusive area of the lagoon designed for privacy, where visitors can explore the lava canyons during a soak away from the crowds. For an ultra-private experience, book the Lava Cove suite, which features a wood-burning fireplace, a butler, and an on-call chef, as well as its very own lagoon, ideal for trying the Retreat Spa’s 120-minute Signature In-Water Massage ($287), which includes a salt scrub, mineral oil massage, and silica or algae wrap. The spa also makes its own line of body care products, the perfect souvenir to keep the relaxation going back at home. From $1,200 per night.
