A city break is all well and good, but sometimes downtime is the best time. ‘Treat yourself’ is a widely circulated phrase for a reason—and a sumptuous spa can help you do just that. Good for body and for mind, a day (or two) at the spa has enormous benefits for the skin, and can leave you feeling and looking good.
With so many natural springs and luxury locations to choose from, Italy is the most lauded spot this year when it comes to spa resorts, with many celebrities opting for the European holiday destinations. From north to south, we pick out the country’s top spa resorts, sure to leave you feeling relaxed and revitalised in time for the summer cool down.
NH Collection Grand Hotel Convento di Amalfi
Already a star-studded favourite, this 5-star spa hotel located in the jewel of the Italian riviera is definitely the way to go. A renovated 13th century monastery, the hotel has a prime spot on a mountain overlooking the sea, offering one of the most beautiful views on the coast. However, the city centre is only a mere 400m away, so whilst it is a secluded and peaceful spot, you won’t be left feeling isolated. The spa offers an almost endless supply of massages and treatments, with some specially designed for couples. Be good to yourself.
Average per night $1000
nh-hotels.com
Bellevue Syrene
Located in one of Italy’s most beautiful locations (and the home of limoncello), Sorrento’s crowning hotel also doubles up as the best spa resort in the city. Also currently housing a Matisse exhibition, the hotel is historically a particular favourite for those in the arts. Alongside a private beach (yes), the hotel is an oasis of relaxation, with first-class hammam and body massages, available in their specially-dedicated Wellness centre. And, for the more adventurous, there is a state-of-the-art gym…
Average price per night $1000
bellevue.it
Belmond Hotel Splendido
Housed in the fishing village of Portofino along the Italian riviera (just off Genoa) and the favourite hotel of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, the Belmond is probably the most romantic retreat available in the country. With a highly-celebrated restaurant (frequented by those not even staying at the hotel) and a beautiful inner courtyard, every feature of the hotel ensures a peaceful and luxury experience. The spa offers botanical massages, manicures and saunas, including yland-ylang experiences and camomile oil and sage face relaxations.
Average price per night $1500
belmond.com
Club Med Cefalu
Certainly the coolest spa resort on offer, this upmarket modernist masterpiece is located in Italy’s tranquil Cefalù Bay. With a Michelin-star designer menu restaurant, and champagne served by the glass every evening from 6pm, and the option to dive into an endless pool of water sports, this resort offers the best all-inclusive experience in Sicily. Dive straight into the sea from the sea deck or relax by the eco-pool, for a Sicilian holiday like no other look no further than this resort.
Average price per night $1100
clubmed.co.uk
Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como
A 5-star hotel part of the illustrious Mandarin Oriental family, this incredibly elegant hotel is the ultimate in lakefront splendour, on the sunlit shores of Lake Como. With two stunning private villas and the largest spa on the lake, this resort is the perfect place for a stylish Italian break. The Wellness centre offers a beauty studio, fitness centre with latest generation Technogym equipment, Finnish sauna and a unique choice of heat and water experiences and a holistic approach to wellbeing. Outside the centre is also a 16-metre heated outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and sun deck floating on the lake. The ultimate treat.
Average price per night $1600
mandarinoriental.com
