10 most luxurious spas in the world

As a devoted wellness enthusiast and travel aficionado, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the most luxurious spas in the world.

At these havens of tranquillity, you’ll find world-class facilities, truly exceptional treatments and a heavenly holistic approach. 

In this article, I’m going to share my hand-picked selection of the most luxurious spas in the world, from the icy landscapes of Iceland to the lush jungles of Bali. 

I have no doubt that you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

This post contains affiliate links.

1. Como Shambhala Estate in Bali

The Como Shambhala Estate is a sanctuary of serenity surrounded by Bali’s verdant jungle.

When you first step onto the property, you’ll instantly feel at peace, with the comforting sounds of nature and the soothing ripple of the Ayung River.

This wellness retreat combines the arts of ancient healing and wellness traditions with modern-day luxury.

Tailor-made programmes offer the flexibility to choose the type of care you need the most. 

You can even participate in a traditional water blessing ceremony, which is a particularly moving experience that aims to connect you with Bali’s spiritual heritage. 

The spa offers everything from stress management and meditation to Ayurvedic treatments. There’s an expert team of in-house practitioners, and they are all truly wonderful.

Nutritionists, yoga instructors, and Tai Chi masters are all on hand to help you on your wellness journey.

2. Six Senses Douro Valley in Portugal

The Six Senses Douro Valley is a 19th-century manor, standing on a high hill, with magnificent views of vine-covered terraces.

The traditional Portuguese style is evident in everything, and the place is home to an ultra-modern spa. 

The Douro River flows through the green hills surrounding the spa, adding charm and serendipity to the whole area. 

Don’t miss the community forest, which extends the concept of healing to nature. The Forest Restoration Project recreated the parkland and infused it with vitality.

The valley isn’t just there for looking; taking part in the gardening culture is part and parcel of the Six Senses experience. 

One more thing that you’ll find unique in this Portuguese spa is their Alchemy Bar workshop.

It’s totally hands-on, and you get to discover the healing power of herbs and plants. Many of them do wonders for the body and the soul.

3. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora in French Polynesia

The Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is pretty much a mini heaven on earth. This resort is built on stilts over crystal clear waters.

The best part is that it integrates all the beauty of the South Pacific into its healing programmes. All with a level of luxury that’s truly unparalleled. 

The massages here are extra relaxing, with the glass floor panels taking your focus off the worries of life, and directing it to the magical marine life below.

This is a truly unique feature of the treatment rooms. 

4. One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives

The One&Only Reethi Rah redefines the concept of luxury, as it spreads across the vastness of a private island.

Its opulence is expressed in every detail, and just being there is good for the soul. 

The breathtakingly beautiful Maldives is the perfect setting for the One&Only personalised wellness programmes.

I’d recommend treating yourself to The Maldivian massage; the heated coconut sticks are incredibly effective at dispersing all the muscle tension from the trip. 

The transcendental experiences don’t stop there though – enjoy meditation sessions in an overwater pavilion or full-moon yoga on the beach. 

5. Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok

The Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok has been treating people for more than 140 years.

There’s a solid sense of culture and tradition around the place that’s quite evident in its architecture and decoration.  

Traditional and modern treatment methods come together in a perfect blend.

All the therapists receive further training at the Wat Pho Temple to make sure that they know how to apply ancient Thai techniques.  

The Oriental Signature Treatment is where the spa really excels. It’s a holistic experience that starts with a detailed conversation with a Chinese Medicine expert.

This is followed by a set of treatments tailored for each person individually. Acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies are then used to restore balance. 

Discover the best boutique hotels in Bangkok.

6. Clinique La Prairie in Montreux

Clinique La Prairie is a world-famous medical spa that’s been doing research on longevity and revitalisation for the past 90 years.

Treatment at this clinic-spa in Montreux focuses on four pillars, which are medical insight, nutrition, movement, and wellbeing. 

The spa facilities are state-of-the-art, with an eye on prevention and healing. It’s not hard to see how regaining balance and rejuvenation is possible here.

The cryotherapy chamber, sleep lab, and hydrotherapy circuit are particularly invigorating.  

Discover more of the best spa hotels in Switzerland.

7. The Corinthia in London

The ESPA Life at Corinthia is an urban oasis that’s hard to find in big cities.

It offers a superb level of elegance and luxury, in addition to serene interior décor, and innovative treatment technologies. 

The thermal floor is my favourite spot. The amphitheatre sauna, vitality pool, and ice fountain are incredible, and I can spend hours moving from one thermal experience to the next.

By the end, I usually feel totally relaxed and recharged. 

Discover more of the best spa hotels in London.

8. The Peninsula Spa in Hong Kong

Creating a tranquil serene spa in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong isn’t an easy feat, but The Peninsula managed to do just that!

It’s the best place to escape the city’s frenetic energy, de-stress, and enjoy the best views of Victoria Harbour. 

What will truly impress you at the Peninsula is their unbelievable attention to detail.

The customised aromatherapy treatment blends and the heated marble floors in the changing rooms are true testaments to that.   

As for their speciality, it’s without a doubt Margy’s Monte Carlo Haute Couture Facial. Even after a single treatment, your skin will look amazing! 

9. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon in Iceland

True to its name, The Retreat Spa and Hotel at the Blue Lagoon is an exceptional place to unwind and leave the world behind.

The centuries-old, mineral-rich expanse of warm water lies in the middle of lava canyons. 

This spa offers the full healing powers of Iceland’s geothermal waters.

There’s also the wonderful Ritual Treatment, which uses natural elements from the volcanic earth to restore overall wellbeing. 

What’s my favourite part? Definitely the in-water massage of the Blue Lagoon! 

Read my ultimate guide to visiting the Blue Lagoon in Iceland.

10. Sha Wellness Clinic in Alicante

Sha Wellness Clinic is a medical spa that takes a highly scientific approach to wellness.

Its methodology is a unique blend of Western medicine and Eastern philosophy.

As for its exceptional location in Alicante, which is a port city on Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca, well, that’s an added perk!

Wellness has many aspects, and at Sha Wellness Clinic they cover them all, from preventive and healthy ageing medicine to well-being and inner balance.

I particularly like the Healthy Living Academy educational services, as the workshops empower guests to take control of their wellness, even after they leave the clinic. 

Have you visited any of the most luxurious spas in the world? Any you’d add to this list? Let me know in the comments below!

You may also like:

• 10 most breathtaking swimming pools in the world
• 10 best restaurants in the world
• 10 most luxurious hotels in the world