The constant demands of daily life can often leave us feeling overwhelmed. A perfect remedy? A retreat to a destination spa. Unlike conventional a hotel luxurious spa where relaxation is briefly interrupted by the realities of everyday life, destination luxurious spa provide an immersive experience in complete rejuvenation. While some may offer the occasional indulgence—perhaps a glass of wine—most are dedicated to fostering a clean, healthy lifestyle through holistic treatments designed to engage all the senses, calm the mind, and invigorate the spirit.
In the newest edition of AFAR’s Hotels We Love series, we’ve explored the globe to uncover the top 15 destination spas. These carefully selected havens range from serene retreats tucked away in tranquil corners of the USA to a breathtaking wellness island in the Maldives—a place so dedicated to wellness it spans an entire island. Each of these unique locations goes beyond mere relaxation; they offer a transformative experience that nurtures both the body and the soul, creating a sanctuary where you can truly escape and rejuvenate.
Canyon Ranch Tucson , a trailblazer in the luxurious spa sector, began its journey in 1979 in Tucson, Arizona. Founded by Mel Zuckerman, who sought personal transformation following his father’s death, the ranch was transformed from an old property in the Santa Catalina Mountains into a sanctuary for holistic wellness.
At Canyon Ranch, visitors can customize their stay to align with their personal wellness objectives or opt for specialized camps and retreats. The all-inclusive experience features nutritious meals, a diverse selection of classes, workshops, and therapies aimed at expanding both physical and mental boundaries. Guests can indulge in top-tier treatments, including Himalayan salt stone massages, Reiki sessions, and age-defying facials, while also receiving a comprehensive health evaluation from an integrative physician. Accommodations include 165 guest rooms and suites, each designed with soothing desert tones to enhance the overall sense of tranquility.
Nestled on 200 expansive acres in California’s Santa Monica Mountains, the Ranch Malibu is renowned for its rigorous focus on fitness and weight loss, often humorously referred to as “a high-end boot camp.” Accommodating a maximum of 25 guests each week, the Ranch provides an exclusive retreat ideal for celebrities and wellness enthusiasts seeking privacy and discretion.
The Ranch’s 21 cottages are intentionally minimalistic, designed to facilitate digital detox with their neutral color schemes and absence of televisions. The daily regimen starts with an early morning wake-up for either a two- or four-hour hike, followed by a comprehensive schedule of yoga, workout classes, meditation, and massages. The culinary approach here is all about simplicity, featuring vegan meals crafted for detoxification. These meals are part of a holistic nutrition strategy supported by weekly cooking classes, where guests can discover the secrets behind the plant-based dishes made from ingredients grown in the on-site regenerative organic garden and local farms.
Lake Austin Spa Resort, nestled within the rugged beauty of Texas Hill Country, offers a serene retreat just 30 minutes from downtown Austin. This oasis is dedicated to wellness and relaxation, providing a range of activities including water sports, cooking classes, stargazing, cardio drumming sessions, and tranquil wine cruises. Guests can also enjoy leisurely strolls around Lake Austin or take a dip in one of the three pools, including one set in a rustic-chic barn.
The resort has recently partnered with Italy’s ComfortZone to introduce a unique skincare experience. The in-room Wellness Bar features seasonal products tailored to guest needs. With 40 guest rooms that seamlessly blend luxury with local charm, the resort enhances its lakeside setting. All-inclusive meals highlight ingredients from the resort’s organic gardens, including edible flowers. Lake Austin Spa Resort is also committed to environmental sustainability, featuring wildlife habitats (including a certified monarch butterfly habitat), local building materials, and eco-friendly gardening practices.
The ancient Greeks recognized the essential link between mind, body, and spirit, a philosophy that Andronis Concept Wellness Resort on Santorini beautifully embodies. Perched on a hillside, this contemporary retreat offers a modern sanctuary for achieving that age-old balance.
The resort features 28 expansive luxurious spa suites, each with a private heated plunge pool and minimalist design that harmonizes with Santorini’s natural landscape. Guests can enjoy three distinct swimming pools, including a cave pool with an artificial waterfall and the island’s longest infinity pool. The wellness treatments at Andronis Concept echo ancient Greek practices, incorporating elements such as hydrotherapy and light therapy.
In line with the Mediterranean diet, and endorsed by a dietitian, the resort’s food program emphasizes locally sourced ingredients to support a holistic approach to wellness. The stunning backdrop of the Aegean Sea adds to the overall experience, creating a rejuvenating retreat that nourishes both body and soul.
Nestled near Alicante on Spain’s southeastern coast, Sha Wellness Clinic is renowned for its integration of medical and holistic approaches to wellness. Established in 2008 by Alfredo Bataller Parietti, a real estate mogul who found relief from colon cancer through natural remedies and dietary improvements, the retreat is dedicated to addressing major health issues while also offering preventative programs.
Guests at Sha Wellness Clinic can select from five personalized wellness paths, including Detox, Optimal Weight, and Healthy Aging. Each program is customized to meet individual needs and features seasonal menus focused on plant-based and seafood ingredients. The clinic recently introduced a new Sexual Health Unit, expanding its commitment to comprehensive health optimization. Accommodation options include 93 minimalist suites and 11 residences, some offering stunning views of the Mediterranean. Guests can enjoy various activities such as sailing, diving, and hiking along the sun-drenched coastline.
