Top 10 spas around the world

A Reuters report asks what better way to start the new year than winding down at a spa, with TripAdvisor, the online travel site, coming up with a list of the top 10 world spas according to its readers.

All 4- or 5-star properties, these spas offer relaxing and opulent spa settings where travelers can unwind, detoxify, and invigorate their minds, bodies and spirits.

“Situated in stunning environments with luxurious accommodations, these top spas offer a truly exceptional experience, enabling travelers to completely unwind and rejuvenate,” said Michele Perry, spokeswoman for TripAdvisor.

This list was compiled by TripAdvisor and is not endorsed by Reuters:

1. Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, Ojai, California

Forty miles south of Santa Barbara on California’s Gold Coast, the mission-style Ojai Valley Inn and Spa features a 31,000 square foot spa village. Engage in about a dozen varieties of massage treatments and indulge in the spa’s signature Kuyam mud treatment.

2. Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, Interlaken, Switzerland

In the heart of Interlaken with dramatic mountainous views, Victoria- Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa offers tranquil and soothing treatments. The Victoria-Jungfrau Time Out consists of a full body salt and oil scrub.

3. The Lodge At Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania

Surrounded by forest in Pennsylvania’s lake region, just 90 miles from New York City, The Lodge at Woodloch embraces nature, with sweeping windows, covered porches and whirlpools with woodland views.

4. Les Sources de Caudalie, Aquitaine, France

For the wine and spa enthusiast, Les Sources de Caudalie is nestled in the vineyards of Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte near Bordeaux. Toast to relaxation while indulging in a vinotherapie treatment, such as a Red Vine Bath, Merlot Wrap or Grape Marc Bath, which combines warm spring water with grape extracts.

5. Como Shambhala, Bali, Indonesia

Situated on a riverbank in Bali, Como Shambhala, or “sacred place of bliss,” encourages exploring the body, mind and spirit to find inner peace. Try the Como Shambhala bath, which includes an exfoliating scrub followed by a massage.

6. Canyon Ranch Lenox, Lenox, Massachusetts

Set in the New England Berkshires, Canyon Ranch boasts a beautiful spa complex around a grandiose Italianate mansion. For the nature lover, spa aficionado, relaxation or health seeker, this spa destination features numerous outdoor activities, healthy gourmet dining and personalized programs.

7. Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, California

Located in the Del Monte forest, Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach is a Mediterranean-style two-story villa with trickling fountains and a neighboring exquisite spa. Get off to a rocky start by indulging in the Pebble Massage, where smooth stones are used to relax and release tension.

8. Lausanne Palace & Spa, Vaud, Switzerland

Built during the Belle Epoque, Lausanne Palace & Spa stands perched on a hill with views of Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps and features a modern 8200 square foot spa.

9. Hotel Le Mirador Kempinski Genfer See, Vaud, Switzerland

Breathe in crisp air at the Hotel Le Mirador Kempinski Genfer See, located in Swiss wine country and home to one of the famed Givenchy Spas. Take advantage of separate quarters for men and women by drifting away in the Hammam (Turkish bath), sauna, or steam room.

10. Schlosshotel Buehlerhoehe, Buhl, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany

Fifteen kilometres from Baden-Baden in the north Black Forest, Schlosshotel Buehlerhoehe combines self-indulgence with unbeatable scenery.

A Report by The Mole from Reuters