The last year has seen a wave of new spa openings, which is excellent timing as we couldn’t be more in need of some serious R&R. ELLE editors pick out the best. And breathe…
Six Senses, Ibiza
What to expect: The main headline and buzz about Ibiza is, of course, its world-famous party scene, but the wilder (in the landscape sense) side in the north of the island has long been known for its healing powers.
Synonymous with Ibiza’s 1970s hippy history, the protected north is awash with mysterious soothing energy. If you’ve been living too hard and fast and are finding it difficult to come back down to earth, some recuperation here, and perhaps some time with one of the visiting spiritual healers who come from all over the world to take up residence at the Six Senses, should rebalance your energy reserves – as will the soulful luxury of the hotel itself.
You can take things easy with psychic readings, sunrise hikes, sunset blessings and traditional massages at one end, or go hard on recovery with a high-tech diagnostic plan at the in-house RoseBar longevity clinic. It is here that doctors will help you assess your lifestyle and, crucially, how to live more healthily for longer, which, in the short term, might begin with age-defying treatments including hydrating IV drips, bespoke eating plans, sleep training, biohacking, cryotherapy and infra-red saunas.
Stand-out treatment: Check the calendar for the wellbeing retreats led by guides to improve your yoga practice, breathwork, stress and sleep management. Or let your own constitution tailor a bespoke medical approach after in-depth diagnostic tests at the RoseBar clinic.
The Nici, Bournemouth
What to expect: Breathing just as much new life into Britain’s south coast as it does into its weary guests, The Nici puts the fun back into feeling good. Bringing a Miami Beach aesthetic (thanks to a £25m refurb) to, erm, Bournemouth works more seamlessly than you might think: the palm-treelined outdoor heated pool and its colourful cabanas set a perfect scene for your out-of-England escape, while the bright art deco interior and bold Cuban art do not immediately scream ‘Dorset’. However, why would you want to be anywhere else? The long stretch of golden, Blue Flag beaches on The Nici’s doorstep underpins the wellness offering, with an outdoor activity centre, sunrise yoga and promenade running. In the spa, there’s a slight Californian vibe with CBD treatments as part of the package, so lie back and don’t think of England while you recharge your batteries.
Stand-out treatment: While all in-house therapists work with guests to provide exactly th
