The 5 Best Boutique Hotels for Spa Lovers

Travelers interested in a reprieve from their hectic lives should consider a stay at a boutique hotel for a more intimate and specialized experience. And those wishing to make relaxation the sole focus of their trip should look at the five following hotels.

Scattered across the world, these hotels are destinations in and of themselves, best known for spas which provide next-level pampering in beautiful locations.

1. Il Saviatino : Florence, Italy

Florence’s Il Saviatino hotel is situated amongst rolling hills, and this idyllic setting comes with a spa inspired by the “ancestral knowledge and delicate aromas” of Dr. Vranjes, one of the city’s most exclusive perfume houses.

The hotel itself is housed in a restored 15th-century villa lying on the hillside of Fiesole, and this idyllic setting is perfectly complemented by the spa’s offerings. Typical spa fare such as massages and facials are enhanced by aromatherapy components and unique offerings such as the “Tuscany Pleasure” treatment, consisting of a full facial and body treatment enhanced by wine!

2. The Conservatorium Hotel: Amsterdam, the Netherlands

The Netherlands’ capital city is a long time destination for art lovers; its museums and architecture are unparallelled. Visitors to the city who need to unwind after long days of exploring the canals should try staying at the luxurious, 129-room Conservatorium Hotel.

Its glass atrium lounge is a chic place for meetings, and the hotel’s restaurant, bar, and lounge are overseen by renowned Dutch chef Schilo Van Coevorden, known for his East Asian-influenced dishes. Those looking to truly relax during their stay should be sure to check out the hotel’s spa, known as the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre.

The centre specializes in water-therapy based treatments, and is host to Amsterdam’s only watsu pool.

3. Viceroy Riviera Maya: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Those wishing to relax in true privacy should consider Playa del Carmen’s Viceroy Riviera Maya, which offers guests their own personal villas. Each villa has a its own patio area and plunge pool, all secluded from prying eyes, as they face either the ocean or a jungle-front garden.

Apart from the privacy, the Viceroy’s spa is a major incentive to stay at the hotel, as it offers massages, facials, and other treatments are all inspired by the wisdom of ancient Mayan traditions.

The Viceroy’s spa offerings utilize Mexican herbs with powerful healing elements, and include options such as as a tzolkin, a therapeutic massage involving copal mud, and a stint in a temazcal, ceremony consisting of a steam taken in a mortar and stone structure.

4. Metropolitan by COMO: Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s Metropolitan by COMO hotel offers a range of room options, with simple city-facing rooms to glamorous penthouse suites, all featuring modern Asian design elements.

Foodies can check out the hotel’s Nahm Restaurant, featuring Thai cuisine all made using locally-sourced and organic ingredients. Visitors wanting a break from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok can stay on the property and check out the COMO Shambala spa, featuring ten treatment rooms.

The massage menu is particularly varied, with a standout treatment being the traditional Thai massage which incorporates yoga-like stretches to balance the body ((Thai pajamas are provided for the guest to wear).

5.  Navutu Dreams Resort and Spa: Siem Reap, Cambodia

Siem Reap’s Navutu Dreams Resort and Spa is an oasis for those looking for a spa offering relaxing experiences for mind, body, and soul. Visitors looking to have every aspect of their stay involve wellness should definitely consider Navutu – daily yoga classes and round-the-clock wellness experts are just the beginning of the offerings.

Spa treatments include traditional Asian massages, aromatherapy, and body scrubs and wraps incorporating local tropical ingredients. Highlights include the “queen bee” facial (involving a restorative and moisturizing honey mask), the “royal facial” specifically for men (involving a sticky rice exfoliation), and the Navutu body wrap, which uses traditional Khmer healing herbs.