Relaxation spa Relaxation spas are also referred to as ‘pampering spas’ or ‘pampering and relaxation spas’. As these names suggest, stress and tension relief are the aims of these venues, which offer prescription massages, body scrubs, hydrotherapy treatments and thermal therapies to help guests escape life’s worries. Relaxation spas are typically located within larger holiday and health resorts, and are self-contained (i.e. the spa experience does not extend to the resort's cuisine, and fitness classes are seldom provided). Relaxation spas are ideal for those unlikely to make use of the free health and sports facility access offered by alternative spas. Facilities and treatments vary - be sure to check individual package listings to confirm inclusions. Spa resort ‘Spa resort’ is the generic name applicable to any spa offering hotel accommodation. While spa days are often available, guests typically visit spa resorts for overnight breaks, in order to make the very most of the site’s facilities. Many comprise state of the art gyms, fine restaurants, relaxation rooms, some of the country’s best golf courses and even more to enjoy besides. Some spa resorts (such as bootcamp spas and destination spas) are highly health-focused, while others prioritise leisure and relaxation.
Inclusions vary between resorts and packages - always check individual listings. Want to give the gift of a spa break? Check out our gift vouchers. Thalassotherapy spa Thalassotherapy (from the Greek word thalassa, meaning ‘sea’) is the medical use of seawater as a form of therapy. Thalassotherapy spas often feature a warm, mineral rich thalassotherapy pool comprising powerful hydrotherapy jets to massage, tone and soothe tired and aching muscles, in addition to affusion showers (massaging and invigorating indoor sprinkler systems). These pools and showers can be filled with natural sea or spring water, or minerals may be added to pumped water for similar effect. Dead sea and seaweed spa treatments are commonly provided at Thalassotherapy spas, as are fitness facilities.
Thalassotherapy pools are great for combating cellulite and soothing joint conditions like arthritis. Inclusions vary between Thalassotherapy spas and packages - always check individual listings. Thermal spa These spas feature an onsite source of thermal water, which is heated naturally by the earth’s crust. As well as providing traditional spa treatments and thermal therapies (e.g. heated body wraps and hot stone massages), in thermal spas, guests bathe in the naturally warm water, which is thought to boost blood flow and remove toxins from the body. Water from natural sources is considered particularly healing, due to its high mineral content. Those without ailments will also enjoy a day - or two - of thermal spa TLC just as much.
The water at thermal spas is believed to aid digestion and metabolism, and can provide relief from sports injuries and skin conditions. Check individual package listings to confirm inclusions - facilities and services can vary. Wellness spa This term is increasingly common within the spa industry. This is because ‘wellness spa’ can be used to describe any resort at which strict nutritional food plans, fitness and stress reduction classes, and healthy lifestyle workshops are also provided for guess, as opposed to indulgent spa pampering alone.
ReflexologyStriking a fine balance between spacious and cosy, with two floors and six zones - including Treetop Escape, Treetop Nesting and Forest Immersion on the first floor, to Volcanic Forest, Nordic Forest and Hot Springs on the ground floor – it offers hot and cold experiences ranging from a heated outdoor pool and soothing relaxation areas There is no shortage of relaxing experiences to try, including the delightful treehouse sauna, which offers a stunning view of untouched nature outside. As well as foot spas and steam rooms, you can also tip-toe to one of the outdoor hot tubs which are perfect to sink into on a chilly day. The spa's dedication to rest and relaxation also comes in the form of many snug pods which are laden with cushions and blankets so that guests can settle down undisturbed with a book or take a nap. Treatments take place in another section of the spa, where therapists offer anything from a Swedish Body Massage to an Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial that will leave you feeling calm and revitalised.
To satisfy your hunger pangs, head to the Vitale Café Bar and sample tempting Mediterranean dishes such as pasta, flatbreads, salad and paninis, washed down with a chilled glass of Prosecco. If one day in this delightful ambience is not enough, experience the ultimate in relaxation by booking a Spa Break in one of Aqua Sana’s five comfortable apartments. Nestled in 120 acres of parkland just outside London but a world away from the bustle of the city, Pennyhill Park is an oasis of calm and the perfect spot for a relaxing spa day or staycation.
Voted Best Hotel Spa by the 2021 Good Spa Guide Awards, this five-star country house hotel has a heated outdoor pool surrounded by comfy loungers and black marble hot tubs, while inside there’s another luxurious 25-metre ballroom pool featuring underwater music, thermal cabins, saunas, herbal steam rooms and a hydrotherapy pool, as well as a cold plunge pool and an ice igloo for those wanting to feel invigorated. Treatments include detoxifying scrubs and mud wraps; luxury facials enriched with gold, caviar and pearl; anti-ageing treatments; hot stone and essential oil massages; and a range of hand, foot and beauty treatments. There are various spa break packages on offer, with a variety of stylish rooms and suites and top-notch restaurants to choose from. Each of the 124 rooms is individually designed and furnished, from the traditional period styles in the main house to The Granary, a two-storey stand-alone suite that overlooks the pool area showcases exposed beams and a lovely free-standing copper bath in the bedroom.
