Choosing a spa type

Spas are not all the same! At The Good Spa Guide, we put every spa into one of five categories. Understanding the different types of spa and knowing what you want to get out of your spa experience is really important when it comes to finding spa nirvana.

Spa types 

Destination spa

Offers the pure spa experience, where everyone wanders around in robes. The only reason to be there is to relax and unwind.

Day spa

Somewhere you can go just for the day, with water facilities such as pools and steam rooms, and somewhere to relax between treatments.

Health club spa

They bring fitness and spa into one space. Facilities will often include a large gym or fitness space, regular classes as well as the usual spa wet and thermal facilities. Most will offer a range of memberships alongside their spa days or breaks.

Hotel spa

Many hotel spas are open to non-residents, but you may find yourself sharing your spa space with hotel guests.

Treatment rooms

These specialise in beauty, well-being and holistic treatments but you won’t find any pools or baths. There may be a sauna, but the heat facilities probably won’t be extensive.

How to choose your perfect spa type 

It is all about tailoring your likes and dislikes to the right spa. Perhaps you’re a water baby and long for plenty of places to splash, maybe you crave multiple experience rooms or would prefer a spa with lots of outdoor facilities. Ask yourself what you want to achieve. Is it to relax, have some romantic we-time or detox?

Some spas are best for groups of friends; others are perfect for a wellness de-stress break. Do a bit of research into the spa and its facilities, read reviews and fit the spa to your needs, not the other way around.

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