Melt into relaxation at these resort spas
One-of-a-kind experiences will have you back for more
Subdue the stresses of a modern world by including spa and wellness options in your family vacation planning. Here are five ideas to consider.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa
(North Male Atoll, Maldives) As such idyllic sanctuaries go, The Island Spa, part of the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, provides a compelling setting for a restorative journey. To begin, guests set sail across a turquoise lagoon to the small private island where marine-based therapies and rituals draw on the healing properties of the sea and the surrounding natural world. Inside the healing tent, guests can opt for a holistic blend of Reiki and sound healing followed by guided breathwork. The final step is an ice bath plunge, an increasingly popular way to provide muscle recovery, boost blood flow and relieve stress. Beyond the spa, guests enjoy participation in the Marine Savers program, a coral-propagation project, scuba diving, surfing, hand line fishing and an array of water sports.fourseasons.com/maldiveskh/
C Lazy U Ranch (Granby, Colo.)
Slide out of the saddle and into a cosy robe at the Lazy You Spa where six luxurious, creekside tents await the sore muscles of active guests. Treat yourselves to a massage in one of two tents perched over the flowing water. Glass floors provide a clear view of the river, adding to the relaxing natural vibe. Treat your teen to a manicure or pedicure while you opt for the Cowboy Soak. (Cue the champagne and strawberries.) Let your worries fade away as you step in a deep copper tub and direct your attention to the stunning view of the Continental Divide just outside the folds of your canvas tent. clazyu.com
Acqualina Resort (Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.)
A one of kind wellness experience, the Acqualina Spa’s Sound Healing treatment blends the therapeutic powers of music and massage. The relaxing journey begins with a foot massage during which guests review music choices via an iPad and custom, soundblocking headphones. Options include original music compositions from classical and new age to Latin and reggae as well as the natural sounds of the ocean or rainforests. This is followed by an aromatherapy massage as you relax into your chosen melodies. Later, build sand castles on the beach, practice yoga, choose from a healthy menu or relax aside one of three oceanfront swimming pools. acqualinaresort.com
Hotel Arts Barcelona (Barcelona, Spain)
At 43 The Spa, you’ll surround yourself in natural light, expansive views and a wealth of healing treatment options. Perched on the 42nd and 43rd floors of the five-star Hotel Arts Barcelona, the 3,000-square-foot luxury spa boasts eight treatment rooms and two private aquatic areas. The latter offer hydrotherapy pools, steam baths, dry saunas and stunning views of the Mediterranean, the cityscape, and the harbor below. During the warmer months, cap off your spa day in the outdoor tranquility area, relaxing high above the magical city of Barcelona. hotelartsbarcelona.com
Hotel Valley Ho
(Scottsdale, Ariz.) Choose from the Jet Set Crowd menu to sample treatments that will transcend your Southwestern location and provide an international flavour to the spa experience. Envelop yourself in the scent of an Icelandic moonflower in a treatment designed to awaken the senses. Or, try out a Turkish Hammam experience sure to cleanse, exfoliate, mist and massage or go for a soothing Hawaiian-style Lomi Lomi, massage. Make time to visit the hotel’s hip pool scene where you can relax surrounded by colourful chaise lounges. Consider an on-site walking tour to learn about the hotel’s Hollywood history and its iconic midcentury modern design.