As we’re still gearing up to travel internationally, the pandemic has gotten domestic destinations to up their game. It’s been a while since we’ve been able to fully utilise a long weekend. Here are some spa trips you can pamper yourself with.
Conrad Bengaluru
Only two of Hilton’s luxury Conrad properties are in India right now, one of which is Conrad Bengaluru. Overlooking Ulsoor lake no matter what room you pick, Conrad Bengaluru becomes quite the ‘spacation’ or staycation break for those who don’t want to leave the city. The Conrad Spa has some unmissable treatments that are especially designed to make your day extra blissful. I think good spa days can leave you ready for so much more, don’t you? A special treatment here would be the intuitive Vinotherapy, where they use rose and grapeseed oil to destress the body, fully relaxing you. Follow it up with the French Vino Body Scrub before you head to the steam and sauna (they are also still maintaining Covid norms for the spa, which makes you feel safer as you relax), and end the treatment with the ice fountain to tighten your pores, before indulging in some ginger tea. Conrad has made sure there are treatments for everyone, right from a basic reflexology session to a full treatment with in-house trained professionals, creating a personalised experience. Couples can opt for the couple spa treatments too, in case you’re looking for a romantic time.
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik
Spa weekend in wine country? Yes please. Three hours away from Mumbai is Radisson’s spa-focused destination, nestled at the foothills of the two-millennia old Pandav caves, which has redefined luxury lifestyle in an idyllic setting for a premium getaway. Vibrant food and beverage offerings and progressive culinary concepts aside, their spa — Atman — is their focal point at this property, and has been designed in keeping with the caves around the property, dim lit, surrounded by calming elements. From long spa treatments to a quick facial, pick your destress mantra, enjoy your massage, and wrap up the weekend with a glass of whatever drink floats your boat.
Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat & Spa
One doesn’t need to hard sell Hilton Shillim, it is a respite for the Mumbai crowd.
Situated in the Shillim Valley at the heart of the Sahyadris and spread across 350 acres of picturesque wilderness, Hilton Shillim has an award-winning spa, a meditation cave, relaxation center, salon, and yoga pavilion. From acupressure, reiki, pranic healing, and hydrotherapy to multi-day wellness programs, Hilton Shillim is where you go to take a complete breather from the clutter of city life. What’s even better is trying their fusions of South Asian traditions with contemporary techniques, and the 17 treatment suites that feature private gardens with al fresco showers. Luxury at its best.
Hyatt Regency Dehradun
Uttarakhand just got its first Hyatt property, and they have left no stone unturned in making it stand out. Other than their StayFit Studio, which offers an array of wellness activities, including mindful meditation practices and yoga sessions that are organised in an outdoor setting, the hotel features a luxurious spa with six treatment rooms. Calm ambience invites you in to pick a treatment, and I recommend the Almore — an almond scrub with lavender essential oil — a 90 minute treatment. Using real crushed almonds, a full body scrub is followed by a deep tissue massage, leaving you with exfoliated, supple skin as well as relaxed muscles. Sounds like the right way to take a break.
Della Spa & Salon
This is for the “won’t drive beyond Lonavala” crowd. A mini rejuvenating break at Della Spa, which is open 24 hours to in-house guests and also walk-ins, is the ideal way to spend a long weekend. The spa has seven treatment suites and offers a wide array of sensational treatments primarily including therapeutic massages. From Thai Poultice Therapy, which is all about releasing blocked energy, to the 20 Fingers Synchronized Therapy that focuses on an intense state of calm, deep relaxation, and stress reduction, there are unique experiences to try, beyond the usual spa offerings. Another popular treatment to opt for here is the Bamboo massage therapy — which uses warm bamboo and rattan tools to give you deep tissue relaxation. Come back to life all reset.