From the mountains of Austria and the Himalayan foothills of India, these are the luxury spas worth travelling for this summer.
If your idea of a summer holiday involves more than simply switching off by the pool, a destination spa could be the ultimate escape. Combining beautiful surroundings with transformative wellness experiences, these retreats offer the chance to reset both body and mind while discovering some of the world’s most remarkable locations.
Naturhotel Forsthofgut, Austria
Located within the dramatic peaks of the Leogang Mountains, Naturhotel Forsthofgut offers a wellness experience deeply connected to its natural surroundings. Situated in Austria’s Salzburg region, the hotel’s waldSPA spans 5,700 square metres and is designed to encourage guests to slow down and reconnect with nature. The wellness facilities include relaxation rooms flooded with natural light, saunas, pools, and treatment spaces, all surrounded by alpine landscapes.
Fresh mountain air, forest views and a strong focus on sustainability contribute to a feeling of complete calm. During summer, guests can combine spa treatments with hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities before returning to the tranquillity of the wellness centre. It is an ideal retreat for those seeking a restorative escape in the heart of the Alps.
Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy
Just under an hour from Rome, Palazzo Fiuggi has become one of Europe’s leading wellness destinations thanks to its unique combination of medical expertise and luxury hospitality. Situated within an eight-hectare private park overlooking the surrounding countryside, the retreat benefits from Fiuggi’s renowned mineral-rich waters and clean mountain air.
The wellness philosophy is grounded in evidence-based science, with personalised programmes designed to support longevity, preventative health and overall wellbeing. Guests have access to a team of doctors, nutritionists and wellness specialists who create tailored treatment plans focused on individual goals. Alongside the medical programmes, exceptional cuisine, elegant accommodation and beautiful surroundings ensure the experience remains both effective and deeply enjoyable.
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech
Set within the gardens of Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, this award-winning spa offers an immersive wellness experience inspired by Moroccan and Far Eastern traditions. Spanning more than 19,000 square feet, the spa combines striking architecture with a sense of serenity and escape.
The treatment menu draws on Thai, Chinese, and Berber wellness practices, allowing guests to experience a diverse range of therapies in one destination. Signature massages, acupuncture sessions, facials and hammam rituals are delivered in beautifully designed treatment rooms surrounded by lush gardens and ornamental pools. The combination of cultural influences, luxurious facilities and exceptional service makes this one of North Africa’s most impressive wellness addresses.
RAKxa Integrative Wellness, Bangkok
Set within the lush greenery of Bang Kachao, often referred to as Bangkok’s “green lung”, RAKxa Integrative Wellness offers a pioneering approach to wellbeing. Asia’s first fully integrated wellness and medical retreat combines cutting-edge medical science with holistic healing practices, creating personalised programmes designed to deliver long-lasting results.
Each guest begins their journey with detailed medical and wellness consultations, including advanced testing and diagnostics, before embarking on a tailored retreat focused on concerns such as immunity, detoxification, weight management, relaxation or rehabilitation. Accommodation is provided in spacious villas surrounded by nature, while daily schedules combine treatments, fitness, healthy cuisine and restorative therapies. The result is a highly personalised wellness experience that balances science, prevention and relaxation.
Ananda in the Himalayas, India
Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading holistic wellness retreats, Ananda in the Himalayas has attracted wellness seekers for more than two decades. Located within the former palace estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, the retreat sits amid 100 acres of gardens and forest overlooking the Himalayan foothills.
Drawing on the region’s deep spiritual heritage, Ananda integrates Ayurveda, yoga and meditation with modern wellness practices to create personalised programmes focused on restoring balance and wellbeing. Guests can choose from a range of wellness journeys that address stress management, detoxification, emotional healing, fitness, and longevity. Combined with organic cuisine, spectacular natural surroundings and a deeply peaceful atmosphere, Ananda remains one of the most transformative wellness destinations in the world.
Dior Spa, The Lana, Dubai
If you’re planning on staying a little closer to home this summer, Dior Spa at the Lana is your local address. Located on the 29th floor of The Lana, Dorchester Collection, the spa pairs personalised wellbeing programmes with spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa and the city skyline.
Treatments are inspired by the Dior Prestige range and combine advanced technologies with bespoke therapies designed around individual needs. The serene setting, floor-to-ceiling windows and sophisticated interiors elevate the experience beyond a traditional spa visit. Guests can also browse the Dior beauty and jewellery collections within the boutique space, making it a destination that combines wellness, beauty and luxury under one roof.
