Hotel Spas

Find Relaxation and Romance at These 7 Indulgent Spas

by Susan Barnes

Photograph by Susan Barnes

the outdoor spa pool at jw marriott venice resort.

Reconnect and relax as a couple on a trip to a tranquil hotel spa. (Photo: Marriott International)

When it comes to being on vacation as a couple, it’s not uncommon to have a “go, go, go” mindset to see and do as much as possible. There is something to be said, however, for taking time to slow down, relax and recharge not only your mind, but your body and spirit, too. And planning a romantic stay at a hotel with an exquisite spa is one refreshing way to do that.

Here, take a look at seven hotels with indulgent spas in which to slow down and enjoy quiet time with the one you love.

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

Indulge at an Italian Island Retreat

Escape the buzz of Rome with an Italian island retreat at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa. Hop on the resort’s private water shuttle in St. Mark’s Square and cuddle up on the ride to the 40-acre private-island property replete with verdant gardens and olive groves.

Your cares will slip away with holistic treatments and water therapies like experiential showers at JW Venice Spa, not to mention options to enjoy a hammam, a bio-sauna and a Finnish sauna that incorporates halotherapy (salt therapy). Check out the available experiences during your stay, which may include spa-access packages or after-hours couples massages.

Reconnect at a Beachfront Resort in Vietnam

A water feature at Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island
Savor each moment at Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island in Vietnam. (Photo: Marriott International)

Slow down and reconnect at another romantic island retreat, this one in Vietnam. Arrive Nha Trang Marriott Resort & Spa, Hon Tre Island by boat and discover a five-star hotel with a long stretch of private beach.

After settling into your guest room or one of the resort’s two-, three-, or four-bedroom villas, retreat into the sleek QUAN Spa with its 12 treatment rooms and let a traditional Vietnamese massage transport you to another world.

Consider opting for the 150-minute Love of Siam signature ritual, which includes a foot soak, body scrub, body wrap and Thai massage, all of which are scented with aromatic rose oil.

Make Lasting Memories in Mexico

tzicuri spa, delta hotels riviera nayarit
Relax in the quiet of Tzicuri Spa at Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort. (Photo: Marriott International)

Just a 15-minute drive from the Puerta Vallarta International Airport is a lush jungle hideaway in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit: Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort. You will find everything you could want at this luxury mountain resort, including two pools, three restaurants, two bars and Tzicuri Spa, a true sanctuary.

Take some time for the two of you and let yourselves go during a couples massage inspired by nature and Huichol culture in one of the spa’s private, thatch-roofed cabanas; facials and body scrubs are also available.

Linger longer with the Love Ritual: an 80-minute aromatherapy couples massage followed by a 30-minute bath where you can say “cheers” with some sparkling wine.

Find Tranquility Together in the Philippines

Locally inspired treatments are on tap at Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort in the Philippines. The intimate Sheraton Spa features six treatment rooms — and it also offers outdoor massages with ocean views.

For a unique experience, choose a Filipino Masaje and experience an ancient practice passed down through generations: Coconut oil and banana leaves are placed on your body to detect areas of energy imbalance. Then a massage releases aches and tension.

Go All In on Relaxation in Greece

A masseuse gives a massage at SOMA Spa at Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection
Book a massage at SOMA Spa. (Photo: Marriott International)

Off the coast of mainland Greece you’ll find the spectacular Domes of Corfu, Autograph Collection. When you’re ready to unwind, head to SOMA Spa, which offers an incredible menu with treatments inspired by methods used in ancient Greece.  

Each treatment begins with the SOMA Spa Signature, featuring a relaxing body balm and an “Inhalation Tent” with scents of lavender and chamomile. The 75-minute Olive Root Spa Journey takes inspiration from Corfu’s olive trees, beginning with a full-body massage and ending with a cleansing facial treatment.

SOMA Spa also offers multiday spa packages the two of you can experience together, like Detox & Contouring, Finding Equilibrium Through Relaxation, Pro-Ageing Bootcamp and The Sleep Recovery.

Feel Revitalized on the Florida Coast

Along with the rest of The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, Autograph Collection, the Vinoy Spa is ready to pamper guests. Its ocean-inspired, plant-based therapies intend to help you tap into your senses and nurture your body — and your love.

Choose from a wide-ranging spa menu, from massages and facials to hair and nail treatments. When it comes to massages, don’t overlook the Marine Dream — the perfect option for a Florida coast vacation. This unique treatment involves warm seawater balm and other relaxing ingredients to massage all your cares away, leaving you feeling like you were dipped into the ocean.

Or try one of four holistic Well Being Rituals, which incorporate elements like crystals, gold, sea algae and cupping.

Enjoy a Decadent Stay in Desert Springs

Spa JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa
There are many treatments to choose from at Spa Desert Springs. (Photo: Marriott International)

With soft lighting and decor in shades of gold and tan, the Spa Desert Springs at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa exudes the ambience of Palm Desert and its surrounds in Southern California. Within the spa, guests will discover globally inspired experiences, including an aromatic hammam, Finnish sauna, Turkish steam room and more.

Indulge in a side-by-side couples massage in one of the spa suites — there are several to choose from, so read through the menu to choose one you’ll both love. And while you’re perusing, don’t be surprised if you’re tempted by a body wrap treatment or customized facial to give you that vacation glow.