Encircled by the beauty of the snow-capped Brenta Dolomites, a Unesco World Heritage site, and the Adamello-Presanella Alps, I take a deep breath of crisp alpine air. The dazzling winter sunlight reflects off the snow, casting a magical glow over the landscape. In this moment of perfect solitude, I feel utterly at peace.

I am here to experience the newly launched Yin-Yang Active and Balance three-day programme, created by the Lefay Spa Method Scientific Committee at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, a spectacular retreat perched above the village of Pinzolo, Italy – a two-hour drive from Verona, the nearest international airport. 

_{Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti exterior}

In traditional Chinese medicine, yin and yang represent opposing yet connected forces – coolness and water versus warmth and fire. For the body to achieve optimal health, these elements must be in balance. Lefay’s wellness philosophy embraces this principle with treatments focused on harmonising these energies, with the Active and Balance programme thoughtfully curated to complement these elements. 

My morning itinerary begins with a three-hour guided mountain hike through undulating, snow-draped terrain led by two expert local guides, Andrea Chesi and Mirko Ferrari. Afternoons are dedicated to indulgence and restoration within Lefay’s award-winning three-storey spa, featuring a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western wellness traditions. These include saunas, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and three stunning pools that feature a lap pool and a warm indoor/outdoor infinity pool offering uninterrupted alpine vistas.

My spa journey begins with the water element as I immerse myself in a deeply restorative salt bath, followed by a mud wrap and a detoxifying, exfoliating massage on a waterbed. My highly skilled and nurturing therapist, Katarina, effortlessly blends gentle preening with invigorating pressure, leaving me both refreshed and cocooned.

_{Family Suite}

On my second day, the fire element takes precedence. After a morning hike, I indulge in a deeply rejuvenating muscle massage, followed by a sauna stretching session, a unique Lefay therapy. As fragrant essential oils infuse the steamy air, Enrico, the intuitive in-house personal trainer, guides me through mindful breathing and slow, deliberate stretches to release built-up tension. This experience, both meditative and reviving, will benefit my body long after my departure.

The resort is also a gastronomic destination. Its fine-dining restaurant, Grual, was recently awarded a Michelin star, celebrating its commitment to sustainability and exquisite flavours, with the menu crafted from locally sourced organic and sustainable ingredients. 

_Pool

Evenings at Dolomia, the resort’s main restaurant, are the ultimate celebration after Lefay’s rejuvenating daily schedules. The healthy dining option offers a selection that aligns specifically with the Active and Balance programme, but the allure of decadence on the main menu might prove irresistible. I surrender to the temptation of tortelli filled with locally produced Casolét cheese, saffron cream, caper powder and cocoa beans – a dish that lingers long after the last bite.

_Lobby

Returning to my Lefay suite adds another facet of serenity to my stay. Each room is designed in soothing neutral tones, featuring glass and leather, with wooden accents and at a touch of a button, I ignite my stylish “log fire”, casting a warm glow. The marble bathroom, with its standalone bathtub and bespoke Lefay amenities, enhances the sense of indulgence. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a balcony, where panoramic mountain vistas form a dramatic backdrop to the village below.

As my time at Lefay draws to an end, I already feel the pull to return. And with any luck, I will – very soon.

by Amanda Bernstein

Prices start from €1,650 per person for the Active & Balance three-day programme with a stay in a Prestige Junior Suite (57 sqm), double occupancylefayresorts.com

The post Discovering balance in the Dolomites at Lefay Resort & Spa first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The hotel has existed in its current manifestation, Hôtel Métropole Monte Carlo, since 2004 and has recently undergone its latest transformation, part of which includes the all new Spa Métropole by Guerlain – a collaboration with the renowned French skincare house.

Treatments offered include exclusive Guerlain creations such as the black orchid facial with antioxidant, hydrating, and anti-aging properties and the royal honey repair & renew which encourages cellular renewal and vitality in the skin. 

_Reception

The spa also boasts a pedi-manicure studio designed by celebrity pedicurist Bastien Gonzalez, known as being the pedicurist to the stars. Bastien’s menu is based on his decades of experience and features his own custom-made product line plus all practitioners of his treatments are personally selected and trained by him.  

Designed by interior architect Samy Itani of Itani & Courtois, the spa is a beautiful tale of legacy and continuity as Itani has previously worked alongside Didier Gomez, designer of the hotel’s previous spa. The new aesthetic is one of organic mineral tones with stone, unpolished wood and textured finishes giving a sensory, natural feel. 

_{Lounge and boutique}

_{Double Suite}

Elsewhere in the hotel 45 new rooms and suites will be unveiled this September. Designed by Jacques Garcia – who designed the hotel’s interiors when the hotel was reimagined and reborn in 2004. The new rooms and suites carry their own distinct signature and whisper the warmth, colours and textures of the Mediterranean. 

by Nicola Kavanagh

Find out more: metropole.com

The post Hôtel Métropole Monte Carlo Opens The First Guerlain spa in Monaco first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Ushering in a new chapter for the brand, the partnership makes the Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa and Cliveden House the first in the UK to offer Decree’s bespoke treatments. The treatments will be available to in-house guests, spa members, and non-residents across Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa and Cliveden House.

_{Cliveden House x Chewton Glen Decree Spa Treatments}

Standout treatments include the 60-minute revitalising facial, where skin is revitalised using Decree’s unique AM protocol, cooling tools, advanced tension-releasing massage techniques, and lymphatic drainage. Meanwhile, the 60-minute restorative facial has been crafted to soothe overstimulated skin with the help of Decree’s unique PM-focused products and massage.

_{Cliveden House x Chewton Glen Decree Spa Treatments}

Finally, the 60-minute By Decree Bespoke Facial has been specifically created for Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa and Cliveden House. This treatment includes a gentle cleanse, exfoliation with airbrushing acid, a targeted mask infusion, advanced microcurrent sculpting, and LED light therapy. Designed and tailored for each individual guest, this treatment boosts collagen and leaves the complexion radiant, lifted, and nourished.

_{Cliveden House x Chewton Glen Decree Spa Treatments}

Speaking on the partnership, Luxury Hotels’ Spa Director Kerry Hudson said: “We are delighted to introduce Decree’s visionary skincare philosophy to our spas at Chewton Glen and Cliveden House. At Iconic Luxury Hotels, we are committed to continually enhancing our existing spa offerings by partnering with the industry’s most respected and innovative brands. Whether guests are seeking relaxation or targeted results, Decree promises a transformative spa experience”.

Meanwhile, Dr Anita Sturnham continues, “I am thrilled to announce our exclusive partnership with Chewton Glen and Cliveden House, two of the UK’s most esteemed luxury hotels. This collaboration allows us to bring Decree’s innovative facial treatments to a discerning clientele who value both holistic wellness and scientifically backed skincare. Our mission has always been to simplify and enhance the skincare experience, and partnering with these iconic properties enables us to offer guests an unparalleled spa experience in truly serene settings”.

by Sophie Richardson

For more information, please here and here.

The post Cliveden House and Chewton Glen Debut Bespoke Decree Spa Treatments first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

In keeping with this ethos, and located on a 240-acre estate in Berkshire, the spa has been reimagined to feel more integrated with its surroundings, and so, the building itself is semi-submerged into the landscape. It also comes complete with a living roof planted with herbs that are incorporated in the spa treatments for an indoor/outdoor appeal that promotes a slower pace of life.

_{Coworth Park Spa}

_{Coworth Park Spa}

One of the updates includes a new thermal suite adjacent to the pool, now featuring a Finnish sauna, a citrine-lined steam room, and a snow shower, and this mix of heat and cold supports circulation, mental clarity, and muscle recovery. 

The gym has also been expanded and fitted with the UK’s first Technogym Luxury Artis line, which is super minimal and loved for its gallery-like design. Alongside this is a Technogym Checkup station, which analyses mobility, strength, and posture, and helps tailor workouts to body types and goals.

_{Coworth Park Spa}

The treatment area includes eight refreshed rooms named after native flora, offering therapies in collaboration with Ishga, Wildsmith, Made for Life Organics, and Natura Bissé. Treatments now begin with a new consultation process that factors in skin condition, intentions, and even sound preferences, to create a tailored session complete with custom soundscapes.

As for a summer treatment, the go-to is the Natura Bissé “Oxygen Bubble,” a temporary pod filled with purified air. Designed to enhance skin regeneration and relaxation, the pod acts like a detox chamber for both skin and nervous system, and it comes from a brand that’s loved by wellness aficionados, cue Gwyneth Paltrow and Cate Blanchett.

_{Coworth Park Spa}

_{Coworth Park Spa}

The spa café, led by executive chef Adam Smith, has also been reworked to serve seasonal, health-focused dishes, offering grain bowls, salads, cold-pressed juices, and herbal teas, and choose from indoor seating or the terrace with views across paddocks and wildflower meadows.

Outside the spa itself, Coworth Park is extending wellness into the wider estate with structured outdoor sessions. These include foraging walks, sound healing in the open air, yoga on the lawn, and equine-assisted mindfulness sessions for a holistic kind of wellness and a complete mind-body reset.

by Felicity Carter

_{The Stay & Spa package from £1,020 including breakfast, a treatment per guest, and dining credit, dorchestercollection.com/ascot/coworth-park.}

The post Coworth Park’s Spa reopens with a focus on purposeful luxury first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Starting 2 May 2025, guests at The Dorchester Spa can indulge in Anu’s signature treatments, including her Eyebrow Tint and Shape, Brown Lamination treatment, and bespoke Lash Lift & Tint treatment.

Having gained a cult celebrity following over the years, Anu Khapung’s treatments deliver polished and elegant results. By analysing each client’s bone structure and brow architecture, Khapung ensures that results are perfectly tailored to fit one’s complexion.

_{Anu Khapung x The Dorchester Spa}

Each treatment has been crafted to align with The Dorchester’s philosophy of style without excess—a notion that certainly resonates with Khapung. The lash and brow expert adopts a similar approach, seeking ways to naturally refine one’s facial features and keep one’s brows and lashes fresh and sleek.

_{Anu Khapung x The Dorchester Spa}

With this exciting collaboration, The Dorchester Spa continues to embrace evolution and redefine luxury wellness – one sculpted brow and lifted lash at a time.

by Sophie Richardson

_{For further information, please visit here.}

The post The Dorchester Spa teams up with Anu Khapung to offer new lash and eyebrow treatments first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Alba Thermal Springs}

Guests are invited to immerse themselves in Alba’s extensive array of thermal pools. With an astonishing twenty-two contemporary geothermal pools, a sauna, and a steam room, visitors can find endless moments of reflection and rejuvenation. Each pool is thoughtfully designed to harmonise with the natural surroundings, providing a serene environment to unwind and connect with nature.

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Alba offers private bathing options such as The Terrace, The Salts, and The Clouds. The Terrace provides a private geothermal pool nestled in nature, perfect for intimate relaxation. The Salts offers a private rooftop salt pool for a unique float therapy experience, while The Clouds features a private rooftop geothermal pool, allowing guests to soak in total seclusion.

Complementing the bathing experiences, Alba’s spa treatments are designed to renew and recalibrate the body and mind. Guests can indulge in a next-to-none variety of rituals, body treatments, water and steam therapies, facials, and massages, each tailored to provide a holistic wellness experience. The skilled therapists ensure each treatment is personalised, leaving guests feeling relaxed, balanced and spoiled.

Dining at Alba is an experience in itself. Thyme, the on-site restaurant, offers a menu that celebrates local produce and seasonal flavours. The sleek and spacious design of the dining area, bathed in natural light, creates an inviting atmosphere for guests. Whether it’s a leisurely brunch, a delightful high tea, or an intimate dinner, Thyme caters to all culinary desires.

For those wishing to extend their stay, Alba provides luxurious accommodation options. Each room features an ensuite bathroom with Aesop amenities, a king bed or two king singles with a pillow menu, a complimentary minibar stocked with local wines, and thoughtful touches like an Illy coffee machine and yoga mat with self-guided meditations. These amenities ensure comfortable and restful periods after a day of indulgence.

Alba Thermal Springs and Spa is not just a destination for personal relaxation but also an ideal venue for special occasions. With packages tailored for celebrations, corporate groups, and indulgent experiences, guests can curate their perfect itinerary. The resort’s concierge service is available to assist in planning activities, making each visit unique and memorable.

As Mother’s Day approaches, Alba presents itself as the perfect place to treat their mum to a day of pampering and well-deserved rest. Imagine spending quality time together, soaking in the therapeutic waters, enjoying personalised spa treatments, and sharing a next-to-none meal at Thyme. This thoughtful gesture would undoubtedly make any mother feel cherished and appreciated.

_{Alba Thermal Springs The Tide}

In conclusion, Alba Thermal Springs and Spa offers a harmonious blend of luxury, nature, and wellness. Its thoughtfully designed facilities, attentive staff, and serene environment make it a sanctuary for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it’s a solo day trip or retreat, a romantic getaway, or a special celebration like Mother’s Day, Alba provides an unparalleled experience that nourishes the mind, body and soul.

by Lily Hopkins

_{You can find Alba Thermal Springs and Spa at 282 Browns Road, Fingal VIC 3939, Australia.}

The post Alba Thermal Springs and Spa – an oasis found in Australia first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Having teamed up with Veuve Clicquot and W Verbier over the festive season, the hotel’s winter offerings are not to be ignored. One of these new offerings is the Après-Work Spa Experience. Redefining the traditional happy hour in a luxurious, alpine way, the wellness experience has been designed with the busy city professional in mind and is available on weekdays from 5-7 pm.

_{W London}

The experience begins at The Perception Bar – W London’s intimate cocktail bar – which has been cleverly transformed into the Après Lodge. From the faux fur throws lining the plush sofas to the Verbier-inspired décor, the bar’s undeniable après-ski aesthetic radiates a cosy chalet vibe. Here, guests can enjoy a selection of wintry drinks inspired by ski slope sleekness.

For example, the Red Run is a raspberry and fig-based concoction which instantly transports its enjoyer to a snowy dreamscape. Meanwhile, the Black Run is a bold mix of blackberry, apple strudel tea, and spices, providing warmth and energy.

_{W London}

After a visit to The Perception Bar, guests embark on their next journey up to the AWAY® Spa. Upon entering the spa, one can expect to be welcomed with an invigorating lemon and ginger shot, which promotes gut health and helps to support the immune system.

From there, a visit to the spa’s steam room and sauna is a must. Whereas the spa may be busy during the daytime, in the early evening, one has ample space and privacy to truly relax and unwind.

_{W London}

Once soaking up the heat in the steam room, guests are invited to enjoy an Insta Hydra treatment – a 30-minute cooling facial treatment focusing on the face, neck, and chest. Tapping into the alpine theme of the Après-Work experience, the facial treatment utilises chilled ice spoons to bring radiance and hydration to winter-worn skin.

From the delicious drinks to the revitalising spa treatment, it’s evident that the W London Après-Work Spa Experience is an excellent way to banish any winter woes in the most effortlessly alpine way.

by Sophie Richardson

_{For more information or to book, visit: https://www.awayspalondon.com/offers. Priced at £99 per person, the package includes a 30-minute Insta Hydra facial, one cocktail from the Après Lodge menu or a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, plus access to W London’s fitness and wellness facilities between 5-7pm on day of treatment. Available from 28 November – 28 February.} 

The post W London launch alpine-inspired Après-Work Spa experience first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

While sipping my welcome glass of champagne, I can’t help but notice the designer-clad clientele wondering through the lobby. This hotel oozes refinement and is steeped in history since its inception in 1865, welcoming illustrious guests of the past, including Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, David Bowie and Princess Diana to name a few.

This property, with its 159 guest rooms and suites, is positioned in the most central location in the capital’s Regent Street, adjacent to the restaurants in Soho, the art galleries in Mayfair, and the buzz of Theatreland. It is the perfect destination from which to explore all that London has to offer from early in the morning until late at night.

The gilded swoon-worthy regal central staircase entices its visitors to dispense with the lift. Each of the guest rooms are furnished with neat, contemporary and minimalistic furnishings in tranquil colour schemes, complimented by Carrara-enrobed grey marble bathrooms with rainfall showers, stone sunken bathtubs, and his & hers sink units.

The bright hues of the plentiful Etro amenities add a pop of colour, which when opened, infuse a satisfying fragrance to our room. Our grand junior suite’s floor-to-ceiling triple-glazed windows, dressed with automatic curtains, provides an exciting view towards Piccadilly Circus – such a treat when waking in the morning to soak up the silent view before the daily commuters and effervescent tourists arrive.

The Set Collection’s three founding member hotels, Hotel Café Royal in London, Lutetia in Paris, and Conservatorium in Amsterdam, have joined forces with Therabody, the innovative leader in wellness technology products, which originally established the hand-held massage device, Theragun.

Their current range of products includes devices designed to treat a range of physical ailments for the relief of stress and tension, and to enhance recovery after physical exercise or training. The Therabody treatment menu is available in the dedicated Therabody Suites in each of these hotels or alternatively, massages and facials can be carried out in the comfort of guest suites, offering a private and bespoke experience.

I head down to the Akasha spa and swim in the 60-foot heated indoor pool before my facial. The sound of therapeutic acoustics seduces me into a relaxed state in the Therabody Suite, where Sascha, my skilled therapist, explains how the TheraFace device will aid my treatment.

As I lay on the heated bed, I succumb to her expert manual facial massage using U Beauty creams and serums whereby she then enlists the help of the Theraface device that omits satisfying microcurrents to tighten my skin. I eventually depart an hour later not only feeling refreshed, but literally glowing which, together with a stay here, genuinely makes my day.

by Amanda Bernstein

_{Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent Street, London W1B 4DY}

_{+44 207 406 3333 enquires@hotelcaferoyal.com}

The post The Set Collection launches collaboration with wellness technology company Therabody first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{The Dorchester Spa}

To start, MLX quartz beds and Welnamis relaxation beds have been added to the spa. The MLX Quartz Beds – influenced by ‘Psammo Therapy’ – provide a cocooning effect alongside gentle gravity inversion, which promotes soft spinal stretching and anti-inflammatory action.

The treatments offered are predominantly centred around sound healing techniques, with singing bowls bringing therapeutic benefits and tranquillity. Guests can also enjoy a poultice massage, which further detoxes the body from stress and worry. Based upon healing traditions from Egypt, Morocco and Japan, the treatment beds are certain to ease and revive after a long day of work.

_{The Dorchester Spa}

Meanwhile, the Welnamis relaxation loungers situated in the Relaxation Room tap into similar audio-centred treatments. Known for its Binaural Vibro-acoustic treatment experience, Welnamis invites guests into a meditative landscape via multi-layered binaural acoustic audio.

Proving to support the immune system function, reduce stress, regulate sleep patterns and reduce signs of chronic pain and fatigue, Welnamis offers four programmes – stress relief, mindfulness, PowerNap and Awareness – for a customised guest experience.

For those opting to try one of The Dorchester’s treatments, visitors will be delighted to hear of ishga‘s arrival at The Dorchester Spa and The Spa at 45 Park Lane. Having previously been introduced at The Spa at Coworth Park, the Scottish natural seaweed brand prides itself on organic, sustainable skincare. Signature ishga treatments include the ishga poultice massage and the ishga detox body wrap.

_{The Dorchester Spa}

Alongside ishga, Carol Joy London offers an array of science-led, results-driven skincare products. Harnessing the power of ingredients such as Golden Millet Oil and pure collagen, Carol Joy’s Diamond Facial and Oxygen Facial treatments rejuvenate and refresh the skin with the help of nutrients and antioxidants.

Similarly, Valmont’s cutting-edge products and techniques deliver undeniable glowing skin and a nourished complexion. Signature treatments from the brand include the Valmont Elixir des Glaciers – an indulgent offering featuring two cleansing sessions, three massages and four masks – and the Valmont Lift from the Peaks. The latter of the two concentrates on alleviating stress in areas prone to wrinkles and toning facial muscles.

_{The Dorchester Spa}

Finally, Dr Gout – a world-renowned pioneer and thought leader in evidence-based aesthetic medicine – has introduced her unparalleled know-how to The Dorchester Spa with an exclusive residency. Dr Gout has curated a LAM Luxe menu of treatments for the spa which focuses on “revealing your unique and natural beauty whilst making you look and feel your best.” From pore-refining facials to anti-wrinkle injections, Dr Gout’s treatments are known to promote radiance, boost collagen and sculpt the face.

After enjoying a treatment, visitors of The Dorchester Spa can settle down and enjoy a selection of healthy snacks. Teresa O’Farrell – global head of wellness and spa for The Dorchester Collection – has worked alongside on-property chefs to craft a wellness menu of revitalising culinary delights such as seared salmon, a rice paper rainbow vegetable wrap, a berry bowl or a wind-down salad.

Intertwining inner healing with external wellbeing, it’s evident that The Dorchester Spa is an oasis of peacefulness in the bustling metropolis.

by Sophie Richardson

_{For more information and to book a treatment, please visit here.}

The post The Dorchester offers ultimate relaxation with new spa offerings first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The three expansions see state-of-the-art technology, such as the Hyperbaric Oxygen Capsule and a Zerobody Dry Float alongside an Ice Bath, all supplying mind and body revitalisation in the luxurious confines of the Bvlgari Hotel multilevel spa. 

_{Hyperbaric Oxygen Capsule}

The Longevity Journey sees a Hyperbaric Oxygen Capsule, ideal for those looking for an all-encompassing restorative treatment. Through oxygen therapy within a compressed environment, the innovative development facilitates healing, relieves inflammation, supports anti-ageing and aids regulation of the metabolism.

As for the Sleep Journey, the session offers a Zerobody Dry Float bed, which provides an anti-gravity experience, presenting a 60-minute treatment for those who need to disconnect from reality and surrender to a meditative state. The service is ideal for those who struggle with anxiety, stress and depression and further enhances sleep quality.

Also beneficial for bodily performance, the Dry Float bed has been proven to aid blood circulation and oxygen distribution throughout the body — alongside its capacities to relieve physical pain. 

Concluding the new techno-advanced additions, the Recovery Journey sees Hot and Cold therapy, initially prompted by the demand for athlete wellbeing and bodily function.

The experiences see a back and forth between an ice plunge and a sauna beneficial for accelerating the recovery period following intense physical exercise.

The treatment further aids the functionality of the metabolism, improves endurance and boosts immunity while combating fatigue. 

_{Dry Float}

Alongside the recently added treatments, the Bvlgari Spa is renowned for its luxury indoor swimming pool, known to be one of the longest in London.

The spa further offers a Studio space where one can enjoy various classes such as restorative yoga, Pilates and Barre, amongst other services such as sound healing. Additionally, the treatment centre offers training and fitness services focusing on health endurance and lifestyle improvement. 

Whether it be to remove yourself from everyday pressures or rejuvenate your body after a stressful week, the Bvlgari Spa, situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, will leave you feeling reborn and ready to take on whatever awaits.

by Nicole Pereira

The post The Bvlgari Spa launch dedicated transformative spa experience for your mind and body first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Boasting sixteen acres of grounds, two magnificent restaurants, a wellness spa and an array of welcoming communal spaces – including a spectacular whiskey library – the boutique hotel intertwines modern facilities with countryside living.

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

Upon entering the Grade II listed 18^th-century country house, I am immediately impressed by The Retreat’s incredible hospitality. The staff eagerly greet us with a glass of wine – a signature welcome for all Signet Collection hotels – and attend to our every need.

Whilst sipping my glass of white wine, the renovated mansion’s interiors – designed by Taylor and Turner – spark endless interest. Marvellous historical paintings adorn the walls, tall windows provide views over Berkshire’s rolling fields, and original fireplaces exude additional warmth and comfort.

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

The rooms echo the magnificence of the hotel’s entrance. Featuring four-poster beds, bespoke William Edwards crockery, smart televisions and eye-catching copper bathtubs, tradition is playfully intertwined with opulent décor. Consisting of 55 rooms – including three prestigious suites named after the estates’ former owners – The Retreat is not shy of options.

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

As families parade through the lobby with their furry friends, it becomes clear that The Retreat’s allure isn’t limited to a sole demographic. From city workers seeking respite to couples looking for a romantic getaway, the hotel caters to all.

For those keen to visit during the warmer months, The Retreat offers a range of activities to enjoy under the summer sun, such as Jenga, Connect 4, falconry, croquet, motorbiking and tennis. Moreover, it’s impossible to not gravitate towards The Retreat’s heated outdoor infinity pool – part of the hotel’s state-of-the-art wellness facilities.

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

Housing an additional hydrotherapy pool, Himalayan salt sauna, aroma steam room, salt flotation pod and a sparkling gym, The Retreat’s Signet Spa has all faces covered. During my stay, I opt for a GAIA body massage to see if the skincare brand’s natural products live up to their flawless reputation. And I am not disappointed.

My masseuse, Joane, exhibits her wealth of expertise while teaching me about GAIA’s paraben-free, sulphate-free, silicone-free ingredients. Available to hotel guests and members of The Retreat’s lifestyle club, the Signet Spa is a must-visit during one’s stay.

Having built up an appetite after my massage, I decided to visit Yü – one of The Retreat’s dining options. Serving dinner from Wednesday to Saturday and lunch from Thursday to Saturday, Yü offers delectable pan-Asian cuisine.

Standout dishes include the Japanese miso chicken, miso-marinated black cod and the signature sushi platters. And if you find yourself craving more of Yü’s culinary delights during your stay, do not fret. The Retreat also offers sushi-making workshops led by its sushi master, George, where one will learn all the secret tips and tricks to making the best sushi rolls.

Alternatively, for guests wanting to grab a lighter bite or a hearty breakfast, 1772 Brasserie is the place to be. Named after the year the original house was built, the second dining option offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. Offering traditional Sunday roasts and carefully curated afternoon tea arrangements, it’s evident that The Retreat has a real knack for food and drink.

_{The Retreat Elcot Park}

Ushering in Spring break with an egg hunt, an artisan market and complimentary kids dining, there’s no better time to escape to The Retreat. Located just a 45-minute train journey from London, The Retreat is the perfect countryside getaway.

by Sophie Richardson

_{Nightly rates start at £180 per night on a B&B basis for two people including taxes and fees.}

_{For more information and to book, please visit here.}

The post Glass escapes to the countryside at The Retreat, Elcot Park first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

In recent months, three separate health professionals had told me I was heading for burn-out – a prescription for Prozac was even on the cards. So what did I have to lose? Five days of swimming, spa treatments and soulful staring at the horizon certainly sounded relaxing but little did I know, it would shift something a lot deeper. 

_{Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands}

_{Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands}

According to the Californian marine biologist and author Dr Wallace J Nichols, being in or around water has profound emotional and psychological benefits: better sleep, clearer focus, a deeper sense of inner calm – even improved longevity.

It’s been scientifically proven that being around water – and indeed the colour blue – triggers the body’s para-sympathetic nervous system (the opposite of fight or flight). Essentially, water chills us out. And let’s face it, the water in the Maldives is like nowhere else.

The Ritz-Carlton is one of the newer, bigger resorts in the Maldives. It’s globally recognised for its unconventional minimalist architecture. Villas, of which there are 100, are spherical open-fronted cocoon-like orbs designed by the late great Kerry Hill (of Aman fame). After a mere few hours in my villa, gazing at an uninterrupted vista of blues, I could feel my neurons firing at a slower rate. 

_{Two bedroom beach pool villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands}

_{Ocean pool villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands}

Each morning, I cycled the 3km sandy trail around the resort (three connected islands) before breakfast, eyes fixed on the horizon (potholes permitting). I took hourly dips in the ocean. I had one of the best massages ever in the floating UFO, I mean wellness pavilion, that houses the hotel’s Bamford spa. I drank champagne on the top deck of a dhoni with dolphins pirouetting around me in the surf.

I grazed on mango California rolls, reef-fish ceviche and yellowfin tuna next to the sexiest pool in the world (circular, of course). I was perfectly happy on my own, decompressing. And when I did feel the urge to seek out company, it was easy to find. One evening, I joined two delightful American couples (tech whizzes from San Fran and the son of a banana empire) for cocktails on the beach followed a flame-lit Maldivian barbeque. It was a riot.

By day five, I was feeling so clear-headed and optimistic, I started scribbling lists on hotel stationery – things I wanted to do (or do better), new daily routines I wanted to put in place, new objectives to aim for. I sent postcards to people I’d been neglecting. I made a vow to myself to slow down; to make wellbeing a priority; to listen to my body.

Taking time out to focus on the giant swell of the ocean (and one’s infinitesimally small place in the world) from the comfort of a luxury resort of this calibre is, without question, a privilege. 

I, for one, will forever be grateful for those humbling blue hues.

by Leo Bear

_{‘The Deep Blue Prescription’ wellness package is available at the The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands until 30 November 2024.}

_{Visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives for more information.}

The post Glass tries the Deep Blue Prescription at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands first appeared on The Glass Magazine.