Spa getaways for couples

This page offers general travel information, not medical advice.

Spa time has long been part of the romantic getaway. There is something about stepping into a calm, warm place, switching off your phone and letting someone else take care of the details that allows two people to reconnect. A spa visit can be a small indulgence in the middle of a busy trip, or the whole reason for going away.

Day spa or destination spa?

A day spa is somewhere you visit for a few hours: a massage, a facial, a sauna, a swim in a thermal pool. Many hotels and resorts have one, and many cities have independent day spas. It is an easy way to add a relaxing afternoon to a trip.

A destination spa is different. Wikipedia's article on the destination spa describes it as a resort centred on a spa, and notes that historically many such spas were developed at the location of natural hot springs or mineral springs. What sets them apart from day spas is that guests stay for several nights, and they typically offer a full programme of spa services, fitness activities, classes and healthy cuisine. A stay at a destination spa is a whole holiday built around rest and routine.

Which suits you depends on the kind of trip you want. If you want spa time as one pleasure among many, choose a hotel or resort with a good spa. If you want a structured break with classes, walks and early nights, a destination spa may be perfect.

Planning spa time into a trip

A few ideas for weaving spa time into a romantic journey:

• After the long journey. An afternoon at the spa on your second day can be a lovely way to settle in after travelling, once you have had a night's sleep.
• After active days. Following a day of hiking, sightseeing or skiing, a sauna and a swim feel wonderful.
• Before a special dinner. Book spa time for the afternoon of an anniversary dinner or a special night out.
• Not on the last day. A spa visit on your final afternoon can be spoiled by packing and checking out. Place it in the middle of the trip.

Book popular treatments well in advance, especially if you want to be side by side in a couples' room. Arrive early so that you can enjoy the pools, steam rooms or relaxation areas beforehand rather than rushing in straight from the street.

Thermal waters and hot springs

Many of the world's most atmospheric spa towns grew up around natural springs. Soaking together in warm water outdoors, especially in cool weather or under the stars, is one of the most romantic experiences a spa trip can offer. Follow the rules at each pool, respect the quiet, and drink water, since warm water and heat can leave you thirsty. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, check with a health care provider before using hot pools or saunas.

Spa etiquette for two

• Keep voices low. Spas are quiet places, and other guests have come for peace too.
• Leave phones in the locker.
• Follow the local customs around swimwear, showers and robes, which can vary widely from country to country.
• Tell your therapist about any preferences, and speak up if anything is uncomfortable.
• Allow time afterwards. Rushing out of a treatment into a busy street undoes much of the calm.

A note on claims

Spa menus are often full of promises. Enjoy a treatment for what it is, a pleasant, relaxing experience, and regard any claims about health benefits with caution. This guide makes none. If you have any health concerns, speak to a health care provider rather than relying on a spa's description.

Where to go

Spa getaways can be found almost anywhere: mountain resorts, desert retreats, coastal hotels, city hotels and historic spa towns. Many all-inclusive resorts include spa facilities, though treatments are often extra. A small country inn with a hot tub and a fireplace can offer its own version of spa calm. And if you are travelling a long way, an unhurried spa afternoon after your first night's sleep fits the soft-landing approach described in the guide to jet lag and sleep.

However you do it, a spa getaway is less about any single treatment and more about time together without hurry. That, in the end, is the whole point.