Wellness

These Hotel Spas Are Unique to Their Core

After the last two years, we deserve more than a little bit of pampering. And while any trip to the spa is cause for celebration, there are certain retreats whose services and setting bring the experience to “pinch-me” levels of luxury. Travel writer Juliet Izon shares four of the most unique spa properties from around the world.

Royal Malewane (Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa)

Tippy-top tier luxury and serenity co-exist at this safari lodge inside South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. After spotting “the big five” on game drives, guests can retreat to the award-winning Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa, where, if you’re lucky, you might get a visit from friendly pachyderms as you partake in the hot and cold bath circuit.

Vakkaru Maldives (Baa Atoll, Maldives)

It’s not unusual to have a massage while ocean sounds drift over you, but at this property in the Baa Atoll, it’s the actual ocean you hear. The treatment rooms at Vakkaru are overwater bungalows, complete with see-through floors so you can view crystalline waters while you have services like an invigorating coconut-lime body scrub.

Sensei Lana’i, A Four Seasons Resort (Lana’i, Hawaii)

Located in the lush enclave of Ko’ele, this wellness property aims to help visitors live a longer life. Three tent poles – move, nourish, and rest – guide the lucky guests’ journeys. One of the most popular spa options is the Lomi Ae, or Polynesian bodywalking; your muscles won’t know what (literally) hit them.

Rosewood Mayakoba (Riviera Maya, Mexico)

At this property in Mexico’s Riviera Maya, spa fanatics can begin by booking a wellness suite: a soaring, two-floor space complete with reflexology fountain, heated plunge pool and dedicated butler. But don’t skip Sense, the resort’s spa located on a private island. Swanky treatment rooms are hidden inside the lush jungle; we recommend the Sensorial Apothecary Experience, complete with customized herbal poultices.