Spa hotel These are spas within hotel environments. While destination spas prioritise pampering while offering accommodation, guests at hotel spas are less likely to stay simply to enjoy the spa alone. Rather, the spa is a fantastic additional facility to enjoy. These spas often appeal to those who would like to combine a spa visit with other holiday activities. Spa days at hotel spas are often available, but access to certain facilities may be limited for those without a hotel booking. Be sure to check individual listings to confirm inclusions before finalising your hotel spa booking. Medical spa Medical spas (or ‘med spas’) employ fully-licensed medical staff who administer non-invasive cosmetic treatments - like Botox, microdermabrasion, fillers, chemical peels and laser hair removal - in addition to more traditional spa treatments (individual menus vary). Such spas are a cross between a day spa and a GP’s office. They operate under the supervision of a fully-qualified doctor to ensure safety and desirable results for all patients.
The (often) clinical atmosphere of medical spas can be reassuring for those investing a significant amount in anti-ageing treatments and improving the appearance of fine lines/other blemishes. If you’re seeking a relaxing spa experience and have no intention of undergoing injection-based treatments, medical spas are probably best avoided. Mineral spring spa These spas comprise a natural source of spring water, in which guests can bathe. Mineral water has long been known within the spa industry for its healing properties, and many have soaked in such to relieve pain and skin ailments. If the water source is naturally-heated by the earth’s crust, the venue is likely to be referred to as a thermal spa. If the water is cool, the spa may choose to heat it, so that it is a more comfortable and therapeutic temperature for guests. Massages, facials, manicures and other traditional spa treatment are typically available, as are fitness facilities (always check individual listings).
Many large mineral spring pools are communal - research individual resorts to determine the level of privacy available during your spa visit. Mobile spa Mobile spas allow customers to be pampered by a fully-trained professional within the comfort of their own home, or another personal space. The services offered vary between each ‘spa on wheels’, with some therapists providing cosmetic procedures (e.g. tooth whitening and Botox), tanning and hair salon services, in addition to traditional spa facials, massages and manicure treatments. Mobile spas are ideal for those with long working hours - many operate during evening hours and weekends, meaning you can book a convenient appointment. Mobile spas can save you money, as these businesses often have lower overheads than traditional spas. However, you may find the experience less relaxing if your home decor does not resemble the tranquil surroundings of a spa.
Hair RemovalRelaxation spa Relaxation spas are also referred to as ‘pampering spas’ or ‘pampering and relaxation spas’. As these names suggest, stress and tension relief are the aims of these venues, which offer prescription massages, body scrubs, hydrotherapy treatments and thermal therapies to help guests escape life’s worries. Relaxation spas are typically located within larger holiday and health resorts, and are self-contained (i.e. the spa experience does not extend to the resort's cuisine, and fitness classes are seldom provided). Relaxation spas are ideal for those unlikely to make use of the free health and sports facility access offered by alternative spas. Facilities and treatments vary - be sure to check individual package listings to confirm inclusions. Spa resort ‘Spa resort’ is the generic name applicable to any spa offering hotel accommodation. While spa days are often available, guests typically visit spa resorts for overnight breaks, in order to make the very most of the site’s facilities. Many comprise state of the art gyms, fine restaurants, relaxation rooms, some of the country’s best golf courses and even more to enjoy besides. Some spa resorts (such as bootcamp spas and destination spas) are highly health-focused, while others prioritise leisure and relaxation.
Inclusions vary between resorts and packages - always check individual listings. Want to give the gift of a spa break? Check out our gift vouchers. Thalassotherapy spa Thalassotherapy (from the Greek word thalassa, meaning ‘sea’) is the medical use of seawater as a form of therapy. Thalassotherapy spas often feature a warm, mineral rich thalassotherapy pool comprising powerful hydrotherapy jets to massage, tone and soothe tired and aching muscles, in addition to affusion showers (massaging and invigorating indoor sprinkler systems). These pools and showers can be filled with natural sea or spring water, or minerals may be added to pumped water for similar effect. Dead sea and seaweed spa treatments are commonly provided at Thalassotherapy spas, as are fitness facilities.
Thalassotherapy pools are great for combating cellulite and soothing joint conditions like arthritis. Inclusions vary between Thalassotherapy spas and packages - always check individual listings. Thermal spa These spas feature an onsite source of thermal water, which is heated naturally by the earth’s crust. As well as providing traditional spa treatments and thermal therapies (e.g. heated body wraps and hot stone massages), in thermal spas, guests bathe in the naturally warm water, which is thought to boost blood flow and remove toxins from the body. Water from natural sources is considered particularly healing, due to its high mineral content. Those without ailments will also enjoy a day - or two - of thermal spa TLC just as much.
