NEEDHAM, Mass., January 8, 2008 - TripAdvisor(R), the world's
largest travel community, today announced the top 10 spas in the world,
based on the TripAdvisor Popularity Index and traveler ratings. All 4-
or 5-star properties, these spas offer relaxing and opulent spa settings
and present travelers with a wonderful way to unwind, detoxify, and invigorate
their minds, bodies and spirits for 2008.
1. Right at Om in Ojai: Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, Ojai,
California - Average nightly rate: $323
.
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa
905 Country Club Road
Ojai, California
.
Forty miles south of Santa Barbara on California's Gold Coast, the mission-style
Ojai Valley Inn and Spa features an incredible 31,000 square foot spa village.
Engage in about a dozen varieties of massage treatments, indulge in the
spa's signature Kuyam mud treatment or visit the apothecary and create
personalized lotions and creams. According to one TripAdvisor traveler,
"We have stayed at other first class hotels before, but this one is truly
the best and is really first class all the way." |
2. Feel like a Queen: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel &
Spa, Interlaken, Switzerland - Average nightly rate: $476
In the heart of Interlaken with dramatic mountainous views, Victoria-
Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa offers tranquil and soothing treatments
in a contemporary setting. Take a Swiss-style break with a Victoria-Jungfrau
Time Out, consisting of a full body salt and oil scrub or sample one of
the gems for two. As one TripAdvisor traveler said, "The Victoria-Jungfrau
is by far one of the best hotels in Europe for relaxation, health club
and spa experience, as well as lovely views." |
3. Au Naturale: The Lodge At Woodloch, Hawley, Pennsylvania
- Average nightly rate: $1,076
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. Relax in the private
men's and women's quarters or chat softly next to the fireplace in the
coed Whisper Lounge featuring a covered porch. As one TripAdvisor traveler
said, "After our three night stay, it's my opinion that Woodloch sets a
new standard for destination spas." |
4. Spa Connoisseur: Les Sources de Caudalie, Aquitaine,
France - Average nightly rate: $1,036
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 aRed Vine
Bath, Merlot Wrap or Grape Marc Bath, which uniquely combines warm spring
water with grape extracts. As one TripAdvisor traveler said, "If you like
good wine, nature, good food, world-renowned spa pampering, professional
and friendly service, peace and quiet, and few people, this is the place
to go." |
5. Spa Awakening: Como Shambhala, Bali, Indonesia - Average
nightly rate: $275
Situated on a riverbank in Bali, Como Shambhala, or "sacred place of
bliss," encourages exploring the body, mind and spirit to find inner peace.
Feel like a new person -- at least on the outside -- by trying the Como
Shambhala bath, which includes an exfoliating scrub followed by a rejuvenating
massage. As one TripAdvisor traveler said, "The resort offers so many pleasant
activities and the ambiance -- at one with nature and luxury -- is sublime!" |
6. Grand Canyon: Canyon Ranch Lenox, Lenox, Massachusetts
- Average nightly rate: $1,664
.
Canyon Ranch Lenox
165 Kemble Street
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.
As one TripAdvisor traveler said, "A little piece of heaven! I go there
annually for a week of pampering and relaxation." |
7. Set in Stone: Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach, Pebble
Beach, California - Average nightly rate: $843
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. As one TripAdvisor traveler
said, "Everything is luxurious and immaculate! Service is outstanding!
The grounds are beautifully landscaped with vibrant colors, yet it's peaceful
and relaxing." |
8. Spa-tacular Scenery: Lausanne Palace & Spa, Vaud,
Switzerland - Average nightly rate: $445
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
8,200 square foot spa. After indulging in an ancient spa therapy treatment,
continue the relaxation by unwinding on the veranda or sundeck. As one
TripAdvisor traveler said, "The spa was top notch and the common areas
and restaurants were beautiful." |
9. Country House: Hotel Le Mirador Kempinski Genfer See,
Vaud, Switzerland - Average nightly rate: $320
Breathe in crisp country 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. As one TripAdvisor
traveler said, "Inside the spa you can also relax with a book overlooking
the magnificent views." |
10. Spa-tharsis: Schlosshotel Buehlerhoehe, Buhl, Baden-Wurttemberg,
Germany - Average nightly rate: $396
Fifteen kilometers from Baden-Baden in the north Black Forest, Schlosshotel
Buehlerhoehe combines self-indulgence with unbeatable scenery. Spoil yourself
with the Manager's Stress Busting Day -- an all-day pampering extravaganza
-- sure to extinguish even the worst of worries. As one TripAdvisor traveler
said, "Full marks on the spa. It was lovely to swim in the pool and sit
in the whirlpool with the sleet and snow lashing against the full-length
windows around us." |
"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, director of communications
for TripAdvisor. "From relaxing massages to complete detoxification, these
spas offer a variety of treatments to suit all needs."
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