I adore the idea of stepping onto a little wooden boat and sailing away to my own private island for a few days of rest and relaxation.  These three gorgeous spas offer the opportunity to float away from it all for a few precious hours. Should you choose to return, you will do so feeling rested and rejuvenated.

The spa at Four Seasons Resort at Kuda Huraa Maldives is set on a private island in the North Male’ Atoll, just seven minutes from the resort. Reached by a traditional wooden dhoni, the spa uses OSEA products which are naturally sourced and packed with restorative ingredients such as organic seaweed and algae, guaranteed to revive your glow.

 

I also love the spa at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. Set in a beautiful Oriental water garden, the spa is reached by a teak boat that ferries you across the Chao Phaya river towards the antique Thai houses. You will be welcomed ashore by a robed assistant and whisked away along the jetty where every footstep takes you further away from the rest of the world.   Visit after sunset to be transported back to the 19th century when the property first opened and watch the shadows dance on the walls of the candlelit treatment rooms.

Or, consider Udaipur’s 250-year old Taj Lake Palace, a serene destination for those in search of rest and relaxation.  Built in the 18th century by Maharana Jagat Singh II, the breathtaking white marble palace appears to float on the still waters of Lake Pichola.
Reached only by boat, the palace feels as far removed from real life as possible, but should you be keen to disappear even further away, set sail on the Jiva Spa Boat.  A true floating spa, the vessel boasts a double spa suite, relaxation lounge, and splash pool.  One of the best parts of the experience is the getting there as you’ll have breathtaking views of the Aravallis Mountains as you castaway.   Consider the Sammardana, a customised Indian deep massage using signature oils and local herbs, or the Jivaniya journey, an exfoliating herbal scrub, a heat stimulating wrap, followed by a rejuvenating massage.

  

 

… and relax…