5 unique spa experiences from around the world

Life seems to move at a frantic pace these days, so it’s little wonder that we’re all left needing to recharge our batteries from time to time. For many of us, there’s no better way to relax and revitalise than by retreating to the soothing environs of a spa. Today we’re looking at some of the unique spa experiences you can indulge in around the world, and making the surprising discovery that 24 carat gold, rose oil and red wine are all great for your skin.

As the land of fire and ice, and pretty much the capital of all things geothermal, Iceland has a lot going for it when it comes to natural spas. None is more famous than the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa renowned for its therapeutic, mineral-rich water that appears a bright blue color against the dark volcanic rock of the lava field in which it sits. You can bask in its healing waters and enjoy a relaxing massage floating in the water, and in the winter months you might even be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights dancing in the sky above.

Continuing on a watery theme, Bota Bota in Montreal was a ferry in the 1950s and '60s, but it’s spa guests rather than passengers who can now be found strolling its five decks and admiring the views. With facilities including relaxing gardens, steam rooms, whirlpools and everything else you’d expect from a high-end spa, Bota Bota has the added advantage of its location on the St. Lawrence River, which lulls guests into deep relaxation.

Japan’s Yunessun spa features a recreated ancient Roman bath, a spa pool called “God’s Aegean Sea” and all the usual spa facilities, but it’s some of its other pools that have earned it worldwide recognition. Spa guests have the option to bathe in a pool of actual red wine - said to have been a favored pastime of Queen Cleopatra – and in sake (rice wine), which is said to be good for the skin. And that’s not all; in case you’ve not had enough bizarre spa experiences for one day, you can also bathe in green tea – which apparently boosts the immune system – and coffee, which perks you up and helps beautify your skin. Only in Japan, as they say.

A full day of indulgence from the award-winning Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray in Dubai goes by the name of “The World’s Most Luxurious Spa Experience”, and it definitely lives up to its title. First up, you’re treated to a Margy’s Monte Carlo Gold Facial, a treatment that uses a 24 carat gold chain mail mask that conducts ions to encourage skin cell growth and slow the depletion of collagen. After that, you get a revitalizing Arabian gold Hammam and a jacuzzi bath in skin-softening milk and rose oil. Lunch is suitably decadent – Champagne and caviar in your own private suite – and you’ll even get a bespoke premium gift bag of Margy’s goodies to take with you when you leave.

This pioneering clinic on the coast of Spain describes itself as “committed to improving and greatly prolonging people’s health and wellness by blending the best natural therapies, mainly from ancient Oriental knowledge, with the latest Western techniques.” With numerous pools, waterfalls, gardens and relaxation areas to choose from, it also offers an unusual array of treatments and therapies, from macrobiotic nutrition to laughter therapy. Choose from half-day or full-day visits for a spot of relaxation, or go for a full-on health retreat and embrace the “SHA Method” for days or even weeks at a time.