1.  Blue Lagoon, Iceland

If you want an experience like no other,  then the otherworldly Blue Lagoon should be your first choice. Blue Lagoon is located 30 minutes from Reykjavik and it is a sight to behold – turquoise blue and nestled in a lava field. The water in the lagoon is recycled from Svartsengi, a nearby geothermal plant, and it is a unique combination of algae, minerals and silica. The water is in fact white, it is the silica and its light reflecting properties that put the blue in the Blue Lagoon. If you want to go all out, book a room at the Clinic Hotel. Located 10 minutes from the Blue Lagoon all guests get complimentary entrance to the Blue Lagoon spa as well as access to the private bathing lagoon. For true indulgence book an in-water massage. If your face needs some gentle care visit their mud mask bar.

Spoil yourself with an in-water massage at the Blue Lagoon.

2.  Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux

Caudalie is a wine-inspired spa. We will let that sink in – a wine-inspired spa! Les Sources de Caudalie is located some 20 kms from Bordeaux and nestled on the lake of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte vineyards. The spa offers a unique combination of treatments that include both vinotherapy and the local hot spring waters. The founders of Caudalie pioneered the concept of vinotherapy (polyphenols that are found in grapes are used in skincare for their anti-aging properties). Facial treatments are based around Caudalie line of skincare products (and include everything from anti-aging to hydrating facials), while the body treatments… well. There is the Crushed Cabernet scrub. Or our favorite – the Merlot wrap. One of the treatments also includes, we kid you not, a red vine barrel bath! For the gents there is the sommelier ritual treatment. When you are not being slathered all over with grapes, go for a wine tasting tour, try your hand at a cookery course or take a dip in one of the pools.

How can you resist a place that offers a Cabernet scrub?

3.  Le Sirenuse, Positano, Italy

If you want a romantic holiday, it does not get any better than Positano on the Amalfi coast. Overlooking the bay of Positano, Le Sirenuse was turned into a charming luxury hotel by the Sersale brothers in 1951. If you can tear yourself away from the view (almost impossible!), pop to the spa to revitalize your body and your senses. All of the face and body treatments use Aveda skincare with an emphasis on natural products and techniques. Try a Tropical body treatment (it involves a salt scrub and a mango/coconut moisturizer massage), Rosemary mint body treatment to awaken your senses or the botanical skin resurfacing. If you want some privacy book Spa Suite for couples.

The hotel with the prettiest view in the world.

4.  Royal Crescent Hotel   Bath, United Kingdom

Located in the rolling countryside of Somerset and 90 minutes away from London, you will find Bath. A World Heritage site, it is known for its Roman ruins and baths. For a truly luxurious stay opt for the Royal Crescent Hotel (located at the world famous Royal Crescent). The hotel offers superb spa facilities that include a relaxation pool, ham-mam, sauna and steam rooms. Treatments on offer include anti-aging facials (all done with ESPA skincare), a variety of body massages (from deep tissue to reflexology) and pregnancy massages for mothers-to-be. Shop at one of the many boutique shops, take a stroll in one of the city parks or visit the Jane Austen center. When your feet start to hurt, pop into one of the many tea rooms for some afternoon refreshments.

Explore a historic city and indulge your senses in Bath.

5.  Grand hotel Pupp, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic

Karlovy Vary is home to 13 main hot springs and 300 smaller springs. For centuries people went there for the drinking cure. The drinking cure refers to the thermal waters that guests drank during their stay. A physician will prescribe which spring’s water you are supposed to drink based on your medical condition. The drinking cure should detoxify the body and have a positive effect on both your digestion and your overall health. We will not lie to you – taking the cure can sometimes be grim (the smell! THE SMELL!). So why not spoil yourself with some Old World luxury? Grand hotel Pupp was founded in 1701 and it still retains its charm without skimping on any of the amenities. Their spa is top notch and offers all manner of treatments such as oxygen therapy, inhalations (for people with respiratory problems), carbon dioxide baths and colon cleansing. If you wanted to try a laser treatment, you can do so at the Esthé Laser Clinic. Karlovy Vary can easily be explored on foot and if you want a more active holiday play a round of golf at one of the nearby golf courses, rent a bike or try Nordic walking.

Detox your body and pamper yourself at the charming Grand hotel Pupp

6.  Aqua Dome, Austria

Aqua Dome in Austria is being lauded as the best thermal spa resort in the Alps. It is located 2.5 hours away from Münich and smack in the middle of Ötztal Valley. The main lure? World class spa and unprecedented views of the Alps. The thermal spa area covers 22.000 m2 with 15 pools and 7 (!!!) different saunas to choose from. The beauty spa offers all manner of treatments – from the Tyrolean honey and ginger oil body massage to anti-aging facials. Spa 3000 is exclusive to the hotel guests – sit in the sauna and enjoy the view of the Alps, lounge by the mossy rock pool (a good option after a sauna session) or take a dip in the Ötztal thermal springs.  Want privacy? No problem. Book a private SPA area where you can rest and relax in peace.

Bliss-ed out stay in the Alps.

7.  SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain

Spain is not all about the city breaks or beach holidays. At SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante wellness is a serious business. Close to the beach of Albir and Sierra Helada Natural Park the clinic and its surrounding area has such micro-climate that the weather here has been declared as the best in the world (by the World Health Organization in case you are wondering). The number of programs available at SHA Wellness Clinic is staggering – get help to detox, combat stress, stop smoking or lose some weight. Aesthetic treatments include rejuvenation for almost every area of the body – hands, legs, bottom, stomach or face.

Rejuvenate your body at the place with the best weather in the world.

8.  Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa, Baden-Baden, Germany

Brenner’s Park Hotel & Spa has been welcoming guests since 1872. Prepare yourself for world class luxury in the lush and leafy surroundings of a private park on the Lichtentaler Allee. Take a dip in the pool, let some steam off in the sauna or try their signature ham-mam treatment (it fuses massage techniques with the traditional cleansing). Take a lesson in kickboxing or try a shiatsu massage. If you find yourself craving some shopping or just popping somewhere for a coffee, Baden-Baden can be easily explored on foot (that is if a Michelin starred restaurant on the premises is not enough).

World class luxury in the Black Forest.

9.  Kempinski Hotel Corvinus, Hungary Italy

You want to visit a crazy romantic destination for your honeymoon? But you still want to see some sights? And dine in great restaurants? Budapest (also known as The Queen of Danube) will have you spoiled for choice. With over 120 hot springs scattered all over the city, the spa culture is the norm in Budapest. If you are in a need of a serious pampering session Kempinski Hotel Corvinus should be your first port of call. Pick between their seasonal body massages or face treatments. Or try their signature full body Hungary mud treatment. Couples treatments are available. Also? The hotel is a favorite with the visiting celebrities (cough Brad Pitt cough).

The Queen of Danube will spoil you rotten.

10.  Clinique La Prairie, Switzerland

Rejuvenation means different things to different people. At Clinique La Prairie rejuvenation is a serious business. Shortly put – Clinique La Prairie is a spa on steroids. Located on the shore of the Lake Leman and an hour away from Geneva, Clinique La Prairie offers specialized spa treatments for just about anything – from Icoone body treatments to oxygen facials, from reflexology to acupuncture. But what lures repeat guests is the fabled Rejuvenation treatment. The base of the treatment is the CLP Extract which is derived from the cells of lamb fetuses. The cells are processed in the lab and taken orally for a period of 6 days (preferable to how the treatment was done in the past – with injections). The end result should be a boosted immune system and a revitalized body (the results should last up to 2 years). It is rumored Mick Jagger is a fan (which explains A LOT).

Go all out and try the fabled Rejuvenation treatment.

1.  Cascina Villa, Tuscany

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Tuscany/Montaione-Area/Cascina-109747

Are you looking for an idyllic and breathtakingly pretty destination for your wedding after party? Located on the top of the hill in the sprawling countryside of Tuscany (and close to San Gimignano) Cascina Villa used to be a farmhouse. It has been restored to its former glory and while the setting might be rustic, the villa is anything but. You will not lack any of the creature comforts – the property boasts 17 luxuriously appointed bedrooms, paved terraces, a high tech kitchen and an infinity pool.

Image via Luxury Retreats

2.  Villa Lucchese, Tuscany

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Tuscany/Lucca-Area/Villa-Lucchese-109748

The ultimate luxury in the Italian countryside – these are the only words that can describe Villa Lucchese. Located on a lush and leafy aristocratic estate only 4 miles from the center of Lucca, Villa Lucchese offers stunning views of the neighboring countryside. There is plenty to do to keep you and your guests occupied. Go for a swim, play a game of tennis or golf at one of the nearby country clubs, dine alfresco or go for a horseback ride. Villa Lucchese can accommodate 24 people which makes it ideal if you want to organize a small destination wedding. Needless to say – your wedding album will look stunning.

Image via Luxury Retreats

3.  Borgo Finocchieto, Tuscany

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Tuscany/Montalcino-Area/Borgo-Finocchieto-Full-property-110227

Borgo Finocchieto near Siena used to be an abandoned farming village. Today it is a sprawling renovated estate that can accommodate up to 44 people (given the size of the estate and the pretty gardens, this estate is another option to consider for a destination wedding). When you are not visiting the nearby village of Buonconvento or going for a walk in the countryside, you can lounge by the pool, work up a sweat in the gym, organize a wine tasting session or make use of the media room. If you are after something more private (or visiting with a smaller group), you can rent one of the farmhouses for some privacy during the medium or low season.

Image via Luxury Retreats

4.  The Segalari Castle, Tuscany

https://www.sopranovillas.com/castle-for-rent-tuscany/

There is luxury. And then there is The Segalari Castle. It will take your breath away. Located close the village of Bolgheri in Tuscany, The Segalari Castle’s many terraces offer beautiful views of the countryside. Also? The sea! In fact your private beach is only 15 minutes away. Talk about getting the best of both worlds! But that is not all – at your disposal you will have your own pool, a tennis court, a private church and a football field (!!!) The Segalari Castle can accommodate up to 28 people and a staff of 6 will be at your complete disposal. All the amenities aside – the Segalari Castle and its perfectly maintained gardens would make a perfect backdrop for a small destination wedding.

Image via Soprano Villas

5.  Villa Machiavelli, Tuscany

https://www.villasofdistinction.com/villas/tuscany/machiavelli/

Just 30 minutes away from Florence and smack in the middle of the Chianti Classico region you will find Villa Machiavelli. Dating back to 15th century, as the name suggests the villa was once a home to the Machiavelli family. Later on it was inhabited by the Mazzei family. It was lovingly restored back to its former glory with all of the modern amenities (swimming pool included). The main lure of the property are 750 acres that make the grounds and include everything from olive groves to vineyards (the property produces its own wine and olive oil).

Image via Villas of Distinction

6.  Luxury castle, Umbria

https://www.sopranovillas.com/umbria-luxury-historic-castle/

Close to Umbria’s border with Tuscany you will find this 11th century luxurious castle that belongs to Counts Giunta Tremi (great grand nephews of Napoleon Bonaparte). The estate covers 1500 acres and offers stunning views of the Umbrian Tiber valley. Enjoy an alfresco dinner surrounded by the lemon trees, take a dip in the infinity pool, roam the gardens, the country lanes or go on a hunt for truffles. The estate can accommodate up to 30 people and there is a private church located on the property (the castle has the authorization to celebrate legally valid civil marriages). If you would like your wedding ceremony to take place outdoors you can take your pick between the stunning medieval courtyard or the botanical gardens.

Image via Soprano Villas

7.  Villa Vicere, Positano

https://www.villasofdistinction.com/villas/amalfi-coast/vicere/

If you are looking for an ideal spot on the beautiful Amalfi coast Villa Vicere would make an excellent choice. Located within the walking distance of the village of Positano (the villa is some 150 steps above the street level), you can lounge by the pool, take in the panoramic views, enjoy your privacy and still go for a stroll at the lively and lovely Positano. If you want to venture further out both Amalfi and Sorrento are close by.

Image via Villas of Distinction

8.  Villa Camelia, Capri

https://www.villasofdistinction.com/villas/amalfi-coast/camelia/

There are plenty of pretty spots on the island of Capri. One of such spots? Villa Camelia. Built on the remains of a Roman Palace and commissioned by a Hungarian painter, it was later owned by a French painter who hosted a number of artists here. The island rumors have it Bizet was inspired to write Carmen while vacationing at the very spot. While the villa is the epitome of Old World luxury, the main lure are unprecedented views of the bay of Naples and an immaculate English garden. From the garden you can take a path that will take you to your own sundeck and the boat pier.

Image via Villas of Distinction

9.  Villa Cornelia, Sicily

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Sicily/Siracusa-Area/Villa-Cornelia-113307

You will find Villa Cornelia at the eastern part of Sicily. It is a 17th century farmhouse with over 247 acres of land that include orchards, olive and orange groves. Lounge by the pool with your cocktails, enjoy an alfresco dinner in the evening or take in the views of Mount Etna. During the day you can visit one of the nearby beaches (Agnone Bagni and Brucoli), visit Siracusa or make use of the horse back riding facility on the property. Villa Cornelia can accommodate up to 24 people.

Image via Luxury Retreats

10.  Villa Anna, Sardinia

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Sardinia/Porto-Cervo/Villa-Anna-116874

Atop of the Pantogia Hill in Sardinia and offering stunning views of the Pevero Bay you will find Villa Anna. The villa might be modern and new, but the scenery is everything but – take in the scent of the olive groves and the healing sea air. Make use of the infinity pool or the outdoor kitchen (that includes a proper wood-fired pizza oven). Villa Anna offers the best of both worlds – it is secluded and private, but you are a stone’s throw away from the bustling seaside resort of Porto Cervo. Villa Anna can accommodate up to 12 people.

Image via Luxury Retreats

11.  Villa Londa, Dicomano

https://www.windowsonitaly.com/property/villalonda20-woi

On the hills of Dicomano you will find Villa Londa, a 17th century property that was built around the tower that served as a look out point during the Middle Ages. The villa is situated on a 3000 square meters of a private park. At very top of the park you will find a pool where you can enjoy the views of the valleys and hills in the surrounding area. Florence is easily accessible – either by car or by train that goes from the center of Dicomano.

Image via Windows on Italy

12.  Villa Oleandra, Lake Como

https://www.luxuryretreats.com/Europe/Italy/Lake-Como/Como/Villa-Oleandra-115172

Villa Oleandra is a luxurious property located in the very heart of Como. With gorgeous mountain views and immaculately kept gardens, it will serve as a serene base for the duration of your stay. At Villa Oleandra you will have all of the amenities at your disposal – from the private pool, gourmet kitchen, and fitness room to the wine cellar. If you want to explore the surrounding area pop by into the neighboring village of Como to explore the local restaurants, bars or coffee shops. Who knows, maybe you will spot a celebrity or two.

Image via Luxury Retreats

13.  Villa Naxos, Sicily

https://www.villasofdistinction.com/villas/sicily/villa-naxos/

On the sun-drenched island of Sicily and situated on the waterfront, you will find a contemporary villa Naxos. The property boasts over 8000 sq ft of outdoor space which includes access to a private black volcanic rocky beach, a private swimming pool and a large sundeck. Inside you will find spacious interiors, a state-of-the-art kitchen and a wellness area (that includes both a fitness room and a massage room). The villa’s location is perfect – it is secluded and offers privacy, yet the lively village of Naxos is just a short drive away. If you want to venture further – Taormina is mere 15 km away.

Image via Villas of Distinction