Indulgent Relaxation: Tranquil Escapes for Rest & Rejuvenation
June 5, 2024 by Hidden Doorways
Some getaways are about thrill-seeking adventure. Others are artsy, historic, and all about immersing oneself in a place and its culture. Then there are those that simply ask guests to indulge in unashamed rest and relaxation. For clients seeking a restful retreat in some of the world’s most unspoiled spots, look no further than these nine versions of nirvana.
THE SEASIDE SET
Lesante Blu
First up, we’re headed to Greece, where this five-star resort in Zakynthos is ready to whisk travelers to seventh heaven. Lesante Blu hovers on the horizon, overlooking the warm Ionian waters best enjoyed from its suspended infinity pool, with sunrise swims being the perfect start to a slow-paced day. With three pools to float between and a private beach enclave to boot, the Essence Wellness & Spa is the true haven for serious downtime. Enjoy massages that relieve all bodily stresses and strains, revitalizing facials, and a circuit of sauna, hammam, and hot tub — a set of relaxation rituals we wholeheartedly respect.
Little Palm Island
Next, we head to Florida, but not as you’re used to it, as Little Palm Island is America’s only private island resort, strictly for adults seeking to disconnect from the real world. The concept and its thatched Balinese-style bungalows alone are enough to instantly relax guests, but just wait until they step into SpaTerre. Exotic massage journeys featuring sustainable seaweed wraps, healing florals and spices, and tailor-made treatments that leave lasting results are a promise to all. After treatment, return to the beach or a private deck and let the healing powers of this four-acre island paradise work their magic.
Gili Lankanfushi
The Maldives and serenity go hand in hand, making this private island hotspot a must-visit for those seeking zen. Enchanting Gili Lankanfushi on the tranquil North Malé Atoll boasts breathtakingly clear blue waters, towering palms, and silky white sands. Guests embrace barefoot living from the moment they arrive. Follow the path to the secluded bay that is home to its Meera Spa, where a restorative wellness program is inspired by ancient healing practices from around the world. Every treatment begins with a mineral-rich sea salt foot bath to ease guests into a deeper state of relaxation. Start the day with Ayurvedic therapy and close it with a Tibetan singing bowl massage, followed by a toes-in-the-sand supper — all just a flight away.
THE RURAL RETREATS
Southall
Nestled in the rolling hills of historic Franklin, Tennessee, lies something very special. For clients who yearn for simpler times, Southall’s 325 acres of working farmland, abundant with orchards and heritage crops, are the perfect escape. The whole ethos here is about reconnecting with nature, and there’s no better place for that than its spa. With nourishing, calming experiences blending ancient techniques with modern therapies, it features eight intimate treatment rooms, a steam and sauna duo, and a magical outdoor mineral pool overlooking Lake Mishkin and the resort’s medicinal herb garden. Post-treatment, head to Luca’s Garden for a detox smoothie surrounded by fragrant herbs and seasonal blooms: Zen with a capital Z.
Son Vell
Next, we travel to Menorca, where the crown jewel resort of the esteemed Vestige Collection awaits. Son Vell, one of its newest openings, is set on a 200-hectare estate of landscaped gardens, citrus trees, olive groves, and an organic vegetable garden that feeds fortunate guests. Hidden beaches and pine-scented forests offer the best kind of therapy — delivered by nature herself. The whole setting at Son Vell helps guests momentarily forget life’s burdens. Original Minorcan marés sandstone and ancient wooden beams create a harmonious feel from suite to suite, while private massage rooms promise indulgent spa experiences. Be sure to join the daily morning yoga classes to salute the sun and breathe deep into Hatha and asana practices.
Herdade da Malhadinha Nova
For a small and secret retreat, Herdade da Malhadinha Nova in Portugal delivers in spades. Located in Alentejo — a region with one of the lowest population densities in Europe and one of Portugal’s best-kept secrets — its setting is like a time capsule where the sense of space and silence is endless. Privacy, harmony, and security are its greatest gifts, but the M Wellness Spa offers further relaxation with a sensory shower, sauna, and multiple treatment rooms. Noteworthy are the exclusive facial treatments by the Azores-born brand IGNAE. Relaxation here also includes laughter yoga and the opportunity to connect intimately with the estate’s many creatures great and small.
THE URBAN ANTIDOTES
The Mercer
Some relax in rural settings, others in the heart of the city. SoHo’s first luxury hotel, The Mercer, is a Romanesque revival building with decor by French interior designer Christian Liaigre, designed to soothe the soul. The Mercer’s harmonious proportions and subtle color palettes make this one of the few hotels where his vision is fully realized, resulting in rich restfulness that leaves the chaos of the city at the door. Guests should check out The Mercer’s renowned Black Book for insider tips on New York’s best-kept secrets, from fine dining to wellness gurus like Michelle Spina, who offers cupping, acupuncture, and Eastern Nutrition consultations.
Alexander Hotel
For a retreat in the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, look no further than the Alexander Hotel. Architectural Digest describes the hotel’s architecture as “a unique design building that has changed the urban landscape,” suggesting that nothing here is anything short of spectacular. Harmony is found in the hotel’s suites, which favor a minimalist aesthetic with a moodier palette in tune with the urban landscape. Tending to every guest whim is its Lifestyle Concierge, ensuring yoga classes, a jogging coach, and a personal trainer are available. Complement physical wellness with spiritual sessions, including biomagnetism and aura cleansing, rounded off nicely with a La Prairie facial.
The Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona
Finally, we arrive at The Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona, considered the benchmark for luxury in the city. Located on Paseo de Gracia in one of its most famous historic buildings, peace and tranquility are just a step away from the chic street level. On the highest floor, guests are greeted by a team trained in all things relaxing, holistic, and therapeutic. When not in the jacuzzi, letting the jets pummel out knots and tension, guests can indulge in treatment cabins with Japanese facial massage and aromatherapy body rituals that nourish and rebalance mind, body, and soul. After all, that’s what holidays are for, right?
