Top 10 Serene Holidays

Ananda, set high in the majestic Himalayas in the grounds of a Maharaja’s Palace, is one of our favourite destination spas. Treatments use traditional Ayurvedic techniques to re-balance body and mind, there is also an array of activities to get you healthy and fit for the New Year, especially their 'Wellness Bliss' 'Detox' & 'Fitness' packages that include all your treatments and meals.

With just 16 intimate rooms, Bushmans Kloof, a few hours drive from Cape Town offers an array of activities for those looking for a more active holiday. Explore the stunning surroundings on foot to visit the local rock art, by bike or even canoe. And when you do want to relax there is a fabulous spa to wind down in.

Indulge in holistic pampering in paradise at JOALI BEING Cure. This elevated spa offers specialised massages, transformative facials and bespoke wellbeing journeys. Here, celebrate the “Joy of Living”, expressed through the immersive and interactive artworks which feature throughout the resort. There’s even an Art Studio where guests can create their own art.

In a secluded spot with views over the Ayung River and within easy reach of Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, the Como Shambhala Estate is the perfect place to escape the stresses of modern day life. Offering a range of wellness programmes including cleansing and rejunvenation, you can be sure to return refreshed and invigorated from your stay here.

Here, wine and wellness meet. Enjoy local vintages and standout spa treatments like Cryotherapy, colour therapy, alchemy and even forest bathing. The daily activity schedule is extensive and offers cooking classes, paddle boarding, kayaking, and even tree climbing.

Spend some time in the buzz of Buenos Aires before travelling to the stunning countryside near Cordoba. Here you can explore the vast gaucho lands on horseback, or even try your hand in a polo match before rewarding your hard work with a trip to the spa. This Estancia really gives you a true taste of Argentina.

A fabulous design hotel full of Asian influence, Parrot Cay in the Turks and Caicos has one of the best spas in the Caribbean. Crystal clear waters surround the resort, perfect for long swims and there are also tennis courts, a fully equipped gym and of course the famous Como Shambhala Spa.

With one of the most spacious spas in the Indian Ocean and breathtaking views over turquoise waters, Shanti Maurice is the perfect escape from the English Winter. The spa offers age-old Ayurvedic treatments as well as more modern indulgent treatments. As well as relaxing in the spa you can also try horse riding on the beach, nature walks and yoga enjoying the sunsets Mauritius is famed for.

Enjoy beach yoga, stand-up paddle boarding, aqua Pilates and much more at this peaceful haven near St Tropez, where a team of experts offering bespoke health programmes, targeted treatments, nutritional gastronomy and a wide range of fitness activities wait to transform your senses.

Discover wellness in the wilderness when you channel the natural healing powers of Africa’s ancient landscapes at this award-winning safari spa. For those looking for something truly remote and serene, spend a night away from the lodge in the Baobab Treehouse structure where you will be in the heart of the bush by candlelight.