European Spa Vacations

European spa vacations blend Old World sights and scenery with New Age relaxation. Europe is home to the oldest spas in the world - hot springs and mineral baths date back to the Roman Empire.

Spa therapies have evolved over time, but Europe is still a great place to relax at a spa or yoga retreat. And you can enjoy the Eiffel Tower, castles, cathedrals, or wineries during your trip!

There are plenty of luxurious European spa resorts in which to indulge - what a great place for girlfriend getaways!

United Kingdom & Ireland

• Thermae Bath Spa , Bath, England. - What list of British spas would be complete without a mention of Bath? Named for the Roman baths built 2000 years ago around the natural thermal waters of the region, the town of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thermae Spa is the only day spa in England that uses the local thermal mineral waters.

Treatments include massage, hot stone therapy, body wraps, thermal treatments in the warm waters, and the Kraxen Stove, a traditional Alpine Hay Chamber that warms the back and shoulders before massage.

• Sheraton Fota Island Hotel and Spa, County Cork, Ireland - Located on Fota Island in County Cork and tucked amid gorgeous scenery, the 131 guest rooms with their separate living and sleeping areas are perfect for relaxing after a round of golf or a day in the spa.

The Fota Island Spa has 18 treatment rooms, hydrotherapy, and thermal suites. The hotel also offers a full-sized pool and restaurants that feature local produce and ingredients.

• Hotel Westin Resort and Spa, Turnberry, Ayrshire, Scotland - Set amongst castles, ruins, and mountains, this luxury resort overlooks the Irish Sea.

The European spa offers salt and oil body scrubs, Ayurvedic massage, and body wraps. Activities include golf (of course!), horseback riding, archery and falconry.

• K West Hotel and Spa, London - Located within walking distance of Notting Hill, K West is a modern and trendy hotel in the heart of London, yet a great place to relax and unwind.

The hotel features a 2-level spa with saunas, steam rooms, a gym, and over 80 holistic spa treatments.

The hotel popular with the music and entertainment industry - you may see a star!

Italy

• Ponte Vecchio Spa and Suites, Florence - In the heart of Florence and within walking distance to many sights, the Ponte Vecchio Spa and suites offers deluxe acommodations (including apartments!) in two buildings.

The spa has a steam room and sauna, as well as a variety of beauty treatments.

• Borgo La Bagnaia Resort and Spa , Bagnaia, Siena - Located in the heart of Tuscany, the spa has a sauna and Turkish baths as well as Eastern and Western treatments.

Shiatsu massage, algae deep-cleansing facials, and detoxifying mud therapies are offered in a stone building with soft light. When not in the spa, the hotel offers Medieval banquets and cooking demonstrations.

France

• Arc House, Monclar de Quercy - An intimate hotel located in the wine country in the south of France, Arc House caters to adults in search of relaxation, self-discovery, and health.

The spa centers on health, fitness, stress management and weight loss. Owned by an American, the hotel offers beginning French lessons, cooking demonstrations, and escorted tours to local sights. You can learn about French culture in an environment that feels very much like home!

• Hilton Hotel and Buddha Bar Spa, Evian-les Bains. - Located near the border with Italy and Switzerland, the Hilton Evian is both a business hotel and beauty retreat.

The Buddha Bar Spa offers unique therapies including Tibetan treatments encouraging calm and well-being. The Fitness Centre offers lifestyle classes, relaxation pool,and a Japanese bath.

Switzerland

• Lausanne Palace and Spa, Lausanne. Switzerland is the home of beauty spas, and Lausanne Palace and Spa, high in the Swiss Alps, focuses on anti-aging treatments as well as the wellness of mind-body and spirit through fitness and beauty.

The CBE Spa Concept evolves and tailors services, cures and programs to suit your specific needs and goals.

Spain

• Son Brull Hotel and Spa, Pollenca, Spain - This recently restored 18th-century monastery has been updated with the latest technology, while retaining the quiet charm of the original structure.

Spa treatments include geothermal and Hydro therapy, as well as massages incorporating local products such as olive oil, almonds, honey, salt and aloe vera.

For more information on things to do in Europe, when you're not having a massage, check out Travelzine.EU - Get Around In The EU - In Body And Mind. TravelZine.EUis an ezine dedicated to European travel, showing off Europe at its best!

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