What Is Wellness, Really?

Wellness is deeply personal. It's not about fitting into a trend, but about discovering what makes you feel whole. In my own travels, I’ve found that true wellness is a combination of:

• Physical vitality – Think sunrise hikes, morning yoga overlooking the sea, healing spa therapies, or simply long walks in nature.

• Mental clarity – Escaping the noise, slowing down, and creating space to think, breathe, and dream again.

• Emotional nourishment – Whether through creative experiences, meaningful connection, or a sense of awe - wellness is about feeling something again.

Whether your version of wellness is sunrise meditation on a clifftop, holistic treatments in the jungle, or silent mornings in a snowy mountain lodge - I’m here to help you discover it.

Your Journey, Designed Around You

No two travellers are the same, and wellness shouldn’t be either. When we work together, we co-create a bespoke itinerary that’s not just luxurious - but intentional. That might include:

• Luxury retreats with a purpose – From Ayurvedic escapes in Sri Lanka to digital detoxes in Costa Rica.

• Spa and healing sanctuaries – With cutting-edge cryotherapy, energy healing, or time-tested traditional therapies.

• Mind-body movement escapes – Where the daily rhythm is slow, soulful, and entirely your own.

You’ll also benefit from my personal insight, destination knowledge, and network of incredible hotels and wellness brands across the globe.

Why Book Through Me as a Fora Advisor?

When you book your wellness journey with me through Fora, you gain access to exclusive perks and elevated service you simply won’t find elsewhere. Here’s what that means in real terms:

• VIP benefits at luxury hotels and resorts – such as:

• Complimentary daily breakfast

• Room upgrades (subject to availability)

• $100 resort or spa credits

• Early check-in / late check-out

• Insider access and experiences – Think private wellness consultations, off-menu spa rituals, or guided forest bathing in remote locations.

• Stress-free planning – You’ll have someone who understands your travel style and can take care of every detail, so you can focus on showing up for yourself.

There’s no extra cost to you - just added value.

Discovering True Rejuvenation at Chenot Palace Weggis

One of the most transformative wellness experiences I’ve had - and one I regularly recommend to clients - is at Chenot Palace Weggis, nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. It’s more than a retreat—it’s a complete reset for body and mind, blending advanced medical science with holistic healing.

This is the kind of place where every detail, from the architecture to the diagnostics, has been designed to optimise your well-being. The Chenot Method® focuses on detoxification, energy rebalancing, and cellular repair. It’s intensive, but profoundly rewarding.

Why It Stands Out

Here’s what makes Chenot Palace Weggis so special:

• State-of-the-art diagnostics and medical care – You’ll undergo advanced tests and personalised consultations with wellness doctors who understand the science of longevity.

• Tailored nutrition – The meals may be low-calorie, but they are beautifully crafted to support detox and regeneration without feeling like deprivation.

• Cutting-edge spa therapies – Including hydro-aromatherapy, cryotherapy, and stress-relieving energy treatments - all backed by decades of research.

• Stunning lakeside location – With views that soothe the soul and support deep restoration, whether you're walking along the water or soaking in the silence.

I’ve written more about what to expect in this article and shared 19 standout reasons why it’s a must-visit here. But if you’re serious about deep wellness - not just pampering - this is the gold standard.

Ready to Begin?

If you're feeling the pull to reset, recharge, and reconnect, your journey starts here. Tell me a bit about what you’re craving, and I’ll help you design a wellness experience that’s as luxurious as it is transformative.

✨ Click here to start your wellness journey.

Do contact me if you are interested in visiting Chenot Palace, either here at Weggis or their other property (Gabala) in Azerbaijan. I hope to return to both the Swiss property at Weggis, but also try out Gabala as a compare and contrast stay.

Why Book Your Chenot Palace Wellness Retreat with The Private Traveller & Fora Travel?

Your journey to wellness should be as seamless and rewarding as possible. When you book your transformative retreat at Chenot Palace through The Private Traveller in partnership with Fora Travel, you gain access to exclusive VIP benefits that elevate your experience, including:

✔ Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
✔ $100 USD spa or resort credit (to use during your stay)
✔ Suite bookings receive an additional $100 credit (for a total of $200)
✔ Early check-in & late check-out (subject to availability)
✔ Complimentary Wi-Fi

Chenot Palace is renowned for its world-class wellness programmes, blending cutting-edge detox treatments with holistic therapies. Let me curate a personalised retreat to help you reset, rejuvenate, and embrace total well-being.

📩 Ready to begin your wellness journey? Contact me to book your Chenot Palace retreat with these exclusive perks.

Fast Facts for Chenot Palace Weggis

Address - Hertensteinstrasse 34, 6353 Weggis, Switzerland
Website - https://www.chenotpalaceweggis.com/
Group Website - https://www.chenot.com
Contact - info@chenotpalaceweggis.com
Instagram - @chenotpalaceweggis @chenot_official @chenotpalacegabala
Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 65km
Opened - 2020
Number of rooms / suites - 97
Programmes - Advanced Detox, Recover & Energise, Prevention & Ageing Well
Indicative Cost - 7 nights CHF 5,300 - 6,900 (£4,700 - £6,200, $6,000 - $7,800, €5,500 - €7,200) plus accommodation

(1) Stunning Location on Lake Lucerne

Chenot Palace Weggis is situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Lucerne, offering breathtaking views and a serene environment that enhances the wellness experience. I was there at the end of March/start of April, so lake swimming wasn’t for me, but the way the hotel has been connected to the lake shore by the under-road tunnel is exceptional. After dinner, at sunset, I loved to walk through the tunnel to the lake to enjoy some me-time.

(2) Comprehensive Wellness Programs

The Recover & Energise Programme I participated in was meticulously designed to rejuvenate both body and mind, with a combination of treatments and activities tailored to individual needs. It was perfectly blended between therapy and relaxation, and the timing was very carefully crafted to still allow me to do other things like yoga and stretch classes.

(3) Luxurious Accommodations

The rooms and suites are spacious, elegantly decorated, and equipped with all modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. They are located across four buildings (Le Petit Mansion, La Grand Mansion, La Grand Maison, & Le Petit Maison). My room (an Executive, 453) was on the top floor of La Grande Maison, built partly into the eaves of a modern extension, with a great front/lake facing terrace, as well as access to a huge rear facing (mountainside) shared terrace. Read all about it in my full hotel review, this was more than a room with a view, just exceptional!

(4) State-of-the-Art Spa Facilities

The spa at Chenot Palace Weggis features cutting-edge technology and a wide range of treatments, including hydrotherapy, cryotherapy, and various massage techniques. There was the indoor pool with an outside sunbathing terrace (which was being used in the last few days of my trip), and adjacent to the pool was a thermal suite, with another front-facing relaxation room. This had a sauna, steam room, ice bucket with chilled water, foot baths, and showers. In every spa area there was always water or tea, and lots of fluffy white towels.

(5) Personalized Treatment Plans

Each guest receives a customized treatment plan based on a thorough initial consultation, ensuring that the wellness journey is tailored to specific health goals. There are consultations at both the start of the week and again at the end to discuss all the results that came from the various tests. I added in molecular testing and some other therapies, for a wider view of my overall health. The results were transformational and insightful, so worth doing.

(6) The Chenot Diet

The hotel offers gourmet meals that are both delicious and nutritious, designed to complement the wellness programs and promote overall health. Other than a fast day, where you take only water, broth (lemongrass or mushroom), or tea across a 24 hour period, the daily diet was based on 650 calories across breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Food really was exceptional (all plant based, which was perfect for me as a vegetarian) and all dietary requirements (and also any dislikes) were fully taken into account. The main dining (with various rooms, but in particular the stunning lake view terrace room) was an option as well as room service. I only opted for room service on the night of my fast, but the service and presentation was completely on point. Food was delicious throughout the week, amazing in fact.

(7) The People: Expert Staff and Practitioners

The team at Chenot Palace Weggis includes highly trained and experienced professionals who provide exceptional care and guidance throughout the stay. From my welcome at reception, and the explanation of the process and facilities, throughout the week the staff made this such an exceptional experience from start to finish. Nothing was too much trouble, and they were a perfect blend of friendliness with professionalism and efficiency.

(8) Daily Activities and Things to Do Around Weggis

A variety of daily activities, such as yoga, meditation, and fitness classes, are available to enhance the wellness experience and keep guests engaged. As well as the spa facilities on site (all included as part of any standard package) there was of course an exceptionally well appointed gymnasium, with all the latest equipment including an altitude room for training too. Although I didn’t seem to have lots of free time, I liked to walk around the lake and the local area, as well as doing something I wanted from the off, which was to take the Rigi Kulm train to the top of the mountain facing the resort, then coming back by cable car. Such a nice environment, and the day I picked to visit the mountain (with reception assistance in booking train tickets and transport etc.) was just the perfect day.

(9) Beautifully Landscaped Grounds

The hotel’s grounds are meticulously maintained, offering peaceful gardens and walking paths that are perfect for relaxation and reflection. The only problem I had, which was quite a funny experience afterwards, was getting locked out of my room. As I said above, there was a rear terrace and I went out there on my first day to take in the views. I hadn’t realised that the door would blow closed behind me with a gust of wind, and so I was left out there without the key to get back in. Working my way down the fire escape and trying to get back to reception, I seemed to get trapped in a courtyard garden of the medical facility (with an amazing curved white staircase). I hadn’t realised it was meant to just be an ornamental garden only, but thankfully one of the spa attendants noticed me and was able to let me in. I think I was from then on known as the man who had got trapped in the garden!

(10) Exemplary Service

From the moment you arrive, the staff at Chenot Palace Weggis go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. The organisation before, during, and after my stay was impeccable; with service from everyone from reception, the spa, dining room, medical area, gym, yoga practitioners and gym staff were all exceptional and really made my stay.

(11) The ‘My Chenot’ App

I wasn’t sure how treatment and spa planning would work, but on my arrival (having already download the Chenot app on my iPhone) I was able to scan a personalised QR code with them gave me access to my week’s treatment plan on my phone, as well as being able to get all general information including meal times here too. There were various ways you could view the calendar, and optional extras (supplementary treatments) were highlighted separately so you could track extra spending. There was also a very handy (to begin with anyway) resort map, but after a day or so I began to know where everything was, and how this labyrinth of buildings all connected up so well. What looked liked separate buildings connected by walkways on the ground level, was also supplemented by a huge underground expanse too to connect everything together.

(12) Holistic Approach to Wellness

The holistic approach at Chenot Palace Weggis addresses physical, mental, and emotional well-being, providing a comprehensive wellness experience. I loved the fact that this was a detox and review week rather than just weight-loss, and it was so cohesive in terms of how everything was instrinctly linked to my overall wellness, whether this was through diet, exercise, supplements, or spa therapies; as well as focussing on my mental health and wellbeing through relaxation and meditation.

(13) Advanced Medical Consultations

Guests have access to advanced medical consultations and diagnostics, which help to create a deeper understanding of their health and wellness needs. There are a number of these included in each of the wellness programmes, but you are of course able to add in additional tests (like I did with the excellent molecular testing) and all costs are clearly explained up front and shown on your app, so you’re aware of your overall spending. I found that with the package already including 43 diagnostics and treatments, all the key things were already covered and included as standard.

(14) Serene and Tranquil Environment

The tranquil environment at Chenot Palace Weggis is ideal for unwinding and disconnecting from the stresses of everyday life, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the wellness journey. For me this was enjoying all of the inclusive therapies, but also taking part in stretching and yoga classes (all complimentary) and enjoying time outdoors and the stunning lake views. There were so many areas in the resort to relax and perhaps read, listen to music, or as I often do, listen to audiobooks.

(15) Hydrotherapy Treatments

Rejuvenating water therapies to soothe and revitalize. One of (the many) best treatments was the daily hydrotherapy trilogy. First off was the Hydro-Aromatherapy, a warm jacuzzi bath with water jets for you to focus on one particular area (for me I did the stomach) to which would be added aromatherapy oils at both the start of the treatment, then again half way through. Next you would move to a room next door for the Phyto-Mud, where you were covered in a combination of warm and cold marine muds, before being cocooned and wrapped, then submerged into another bath type machine for water massage. After that, moving to another room you would get the warm and cold Hydro-Jet, both to clean off the mud, but also to stimulate the body. Last up, in a different area of the facility, was the signature Chenot Energetic Massage, balancing Chinese medicine with a suction cup machine and an aromatherapy oil deep-tissue massage.

(16) Spa Indulgences

Luxurious spa treatments that pamper and relax. As well as all the hydrotherapy experiences included as part of your package, or indeed just using the thermal and hydrotherapy facilities at your leisure, there was a whole array of supplementary massage and spa experiences for you to book.

(17) Sustainable Practices

Eco-friendly initiatives that enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings. The hotel part of the resort was indeed luxurious and indulgent, but it was also really good to see that there was a focus on sustainability throughout. Chenot Palace was recently featured in Vogue.

Vogue recently started a spa guide, which is a compendium of 100 worldwide best spas and wellness retreats, pulling the information from the expertise of their global editors.

(18) The Organisation & Efficiency

Although Chenot Palace in Weggis has only been in operation since 2020, it runs like a very well oiled machine, and with so many staff in all specific areas of the resort, everyone works together so the whole experience is seamless. It wasn’t at capacity when I was there, albeit I think over 50% occupancy, but it’s clear that this will run with routine Swiss efficiency regardless of numbers, albeit (and I loved this about it) the staff base was from across the globe.

(19) E-Bikes

Actually, having never used an electronic bike before, when I saw the collection at the front of the Chenot Palace reception area, I knew it was something I had to try. They are provided on a complimentary basis for daily use, and after indicating at breakfast time that I would like to try one, when I came back at 10am I was provided with a helmet and given some basic instructions as to how to use them. They were incredibly easy to use, and going up some of the steep hills around the resort I found them effortless. There are all the flat roads around the lake, but I really enjoyed the climb behind Chenot Palace and having a closer look at some of the spectacular mix of houses, from classic Swiss chocolate box wooden chalets to slick modernist concrete minimalism.

A Tailor-Made Wellness Escape with VIP Perks

Your stay at Chenot Palace is designed to be a life-enhancing experience, and when you book through The Private Traveller, you’ll enjoy added luxury and convenience at no extra cost. Whether you're embarking on a deep detox or a rejuvenating wellness programme, these VIP benefits ensure an elevated experience.

Beyond the perks, I’ll personally assist in customising your retreat, offering expert guidance on the best programme for your needs and ensuring a seamless booking process.

💌 Let’s plan your ideal wellness escape—get in touch to secure your exclusive Chenot Palace privileges!

My final thoughts on Chenot Palace Weggis, Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Stay tuned for a more detailed blog and a general hotel review coming soon on my website. Whether you're looking to recover, energize, or simply relax, Chenot Palace Weggis is the perfect destination for a transformative wellness retreat.

What spa or wellness retreat would you like me to review next?

One of the main reasons for my renewed focus on booking a trip like this was my experience of sudden sensory hearing loss at the end of one of our last vacations over Christmas and New Year. What I initially thought was a temporary ear blockage (wax build up, hence the reason for hearing impairment and the constant feeling of a blocked ear/being under water) turned out to be quite a severe medical impact, resulting in a significant hearing impairment and permanent tinnitus. The first few months of 2024 were therefore heavily consumed with various tests and treatments, MRI’s etc. but now I’m at the point of having to learn with this loss and adjust accordingly. Being advised by my consultant that this should not impact on our predilection for travel nor be affected by flying, I took the opportunity to add in a few trips with ‘Mrs’ TPT to Finland/Estonia (Helsinki, Tallinn, & Finnish Lapland), Morocco (Marrakech and Fes), and Spain (Mallorca) over March through May. As much as I am loving the idea of joint trips away again, knowing that something like Chenot Palace would be a step too far for a couple’s trip, I’ve been able to squeeze in this wellness week between Finland and Morocco!

And for those looking to elevate their experience even further, booking through The Private Traveller unlocks exclusive VIP perks, including complimentary upgrades, spa credits, and flexible check-in/out options. These added luxuries ensure that your wellness retreat is as seamless and indulgent as possible.

All photos here are courtesy of Chenot Palace - when I’m away, I’ll be taking my own, obviously honouring the phone-free zones which are the Restaurant & Spa and Medical Areas, Hammam, Sauna, and Pool.

Summary - what is Chenot Palace all about?

In this wellness journey to Chenot Palace at Weggis Switzerland, I’ll detail my research and booking experience of the spa, health, and wellness facilities. Read below to find out everything you need to know before your next trip to Chenot Palace.

Fast Facts for Chenot Palace Weggis

• Address - Hertensteinstrasse 34, 6353 Weggis, Switzerland

• Website - https://www.chenotpalaceweggis.com/

• Group Website - https://www.chenot.com

• Contact - info@chenotpalaceweggis.com

• Instagram - @chenot_official @chenotpalaceweggis

• Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 45-60 minute drive away, traffic dependent

• Opened - 2020

• Number of rooms / suites - 97

• Programmes - Advanced Detox, Recover & Energise, Prevention & Ageing Well

• Indicative Cost - 7 nights CHF 5,300 - 6,900 (7 nights) [£4,700 - £6,200, $6,000 - $7,800, €5,500 - €7,200] plus accommodation

• Visiting - March 2024

Overview of Chenot Palace

There are two primary locations, the original being in Weggis Switzerland, and a second full facility at Gabala in Azerbaijan. There are then three additional locations in third party hotels - Chenot Espace at L’Albereta (Italy)  and the One&Only Portonovi (Montenegro), with a Chenot Spa at Selman Marrakech, Morocco. 

I’ve broken down the key facilities and services and shared my opinion on them below:

The Booking Process

It was such an easy process - on the website I was able to select my preferred arrival date and for how many guests, then I had to choose one of the three health programmes. Next I was given a choice of the accommodations available for those dates, and by completing a few extra personal details I was then able to submit my enquiry. The following morning I was sent a personalised quote by email (Reservation Offer) which detailed all of my programme benefits, arrival and departure, and accommodation specifics. All I had to do was click a button and the reservation was confirmed, then I was subsequently sent an online payment link. Once this was confirmed too, I was sent my final booking and link for my Preference Planner where I would select my size of bathrobe, slippers, arrival details, allergies etc. and my choice of programme timings which run from 8am to 6pm daily.

The Different Chenot Programmes

There are three different options, all designed for a minimum of a 7-night stay, with the  programmes being based on the Chenot Method signature treatments and protocols, including the Chenot Diet. The signature Chenot programme is Advanced Detox, this includes 36 diagnostics and treatments, as well as the standard 850 Kcal a day food plan. I was particularly keen on trying (in layperson terms, the red LED full-body sunbed) photobiomodulation which uses a combination of red and near-infrared light to relieve pain, relax muscles and joints and increase blood circulation, and 6 sessions were included within the next-level Recover & Energise programme (57 diagnostics and treatments). The most expensive option, Prevention & Ageing Well (53 diagnostics and treatments) has similar core therapies but is more fitness and training orientated, including three personal training sessions. What it does have (of real interest to me), is a course of Cryotherapy courses - this was something I missed out on at Bürgenstock and their Waldhotel Spa, the machine needing a part to be operational. I’ve already asked if I can add on some cryotherapy sessions, this just needs to be confirmed after my medical assessment once I’m at the facility..

What’s included within my Recover & Energise Programme?

• 2 Medical Consultations

• 2 Nutritional Consultations

• Detoxifying Diet

• Diagnostics with Chenot Lifestyle Biomarkers®

• 1 Body Composition Analysis

• 1 Bio-Energetic Check-up 

• 2 Chenot Bio-Energetic Treatments

• 6 Chenot Energetic Massages

• 6 Hydro-Aromatherapy Treatments

• 6 Phyto-Mud Treatments

• 6 Hydro-Jet Treatments

• 1 Stress Test + HRV Biofeedback Training

• 1 Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging

• 6 Whole-Body Photo-biomodulation Treatments

• 6 Neuro-Acoustic Deep Relaxation Treatments 

• Daily HRV Biofeedback Self-training

Where is Chenot Palace Weggis located?

Situated right on the lake (Lucerne) on the northern side (William Tell country apparently), this seems to be between a 45 minute to an hour’s drive from Zurich airport, albeit it does say 1.5 hours on the Chenot website. As much as I love Swiss trains (not least because of their efficiency), getting from Zurich airport would have meant both a change in Zurich itself, as well as Lucerne, before the final stop of the journey to Weggis where there could have been a complimentary Chenot car pick me up. Instead I’ve opted for the more direct door to door option, a limousine pick up from the airport straight to Chenot Palace, and the same for my return flight.

Travelling before to Bürgenstock, direct flights from and to Edinburgh with SWISS Air / Edelweiss Air worked really well for their daily schedule and timing, but this time the flights to Zurich would have meant a late night arrival for my timings. I’ve opted instead to fly out with British Airways (not direct, but I have a stop over in Heathrow and I’ll stay at the Sofitel London Heathrow) before my onward early morning flight to Zurich. While no treatments or any activities are scheduled for your arrival day, this should allow me to get there mid-afternoon (check in time is 3pm) and get oriented before my programme starts in earnest the following day. With a check out time of 12 noon, this works out really well for one of the SWISS / Edelweiss direct flights back late afternoon.

Accommodation at Chenot Palace Weggis

As well as choosing from one of the three Chenot programmes, your other choice is the accommodation. There is everything from the smaller Nest, Superior or Executive rooms designed for 1 guest only, or you have a Classic or Deluxe room, Junior Suite, or Suite all designed for 2 guests. While different in size and outlook (some are in the historic buildings and some in the newer wings), they are all consistent in style and standard, all with full en-suite marble bathrooms.

Additional Spa Facilities

As well as all the included therapies and treatments, or additional treatments which you can add on (split across six departments - medical, aesthetic, human performance, hydrotherapy, medical aesthetic, and sports & fitness) you have unlimited use of the gym, indoor pool, sauna, and steam bath with colour therapy.

Other things to do at or near Chenot Palace Weggis

There is apparently year-round swimming in the lake, which I’m not sure I’ll be doing in March/April and it’s not far to get to the amazing lakeside city of Lucerne, literally across the water. Having been there quite recently as part of my trip to Bürgenstock, I’m not planning on really doing anything other than spending most of my time in Chenot Palace itself with my myriad of treatments and therapies, relaxing in the spa facilities, reading in the Tea Lounge, or availing of some of the complimentary activities like circuit training, stretching classes, aquagym, basic or advanced yoga, or mobility classes.

Why Book Your Chenot Palace Wellness Retreat with The Private Traveller & Fora Travel?

Enhance your Chenot Palace Weggis experience with exclusive VIP benefits when you book through The Private Traveller in partnership with Fora Travel. These perks are designed to make your wellness journey even more luxurious and seamless, at no extra cost to you:

✔ Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)
✔ $100 USD spa or resort credit (to use during your stay)
✔ Suite bookings receive an additional $100 credit (for a total of $200)
✔ Early check-in & late check-out (subject to availability)
✔ Complimentary Wi-Fi

From detox and longevity treatments to breathtaking Alpine views, Chenot Palace offers an unparalleled wellness experience. Booking with me ensures VIP access, personalised support, and insider knowledge to help you create the perfect retreat.

📩 Let’s plan your luxury wellness journey—contact me to secure your exclusive perks!

My final thoughts on Chenot Palace, Weggis, Switzerland

As I said at the outset, this has always been on my to-do list and I’m so pleased to have finally taken the leap to organise. When I’m away, I will write about my experiences and what it’s like to be there for a week, how I’m feeling with the restricted diet, all about the treatments and therapies, and whether I took the right clothing! The Dress Code has been described as follows:

“The dress code for most of the treatments is a Chenot bathrobe and slippers, provided in your room, which can be worn in the daytime (including breakfast and lunch). Some treatments require sportswear. For dinner, the dress code is sport/smart casual.”

Have you visited Chenot Palace Weggis or Gabala or maybe another of the Chenot spa or wellness facilities elsewhere? I’d love to hear your own thoughts and opinions on it as well as your impression of wellness resorts in general.

Comment below to share your thoughts and opinions. 

Let me know which spa or wellness retreat I should review next!

From rainforest sanctuaries to minimalist mountain escapes, these holistic retreats go beyond the superficial, helping you unwind, reflect, and re-centre. And if you’re ready to turn inspiration into a real journey, I can help you book these retreats with exclusive perks — including complimentary breakfast, spa or resort credits, room upgrades, and early check-in or late check-out, where available.

As a luxury travel advisor with Fora, I handle every detail — so your focus stays on wellness.

If you have visited any of them, please reach out and let me know your thoughts, or equally let me know which one you would like to find out about in detail from my review.

Embarking on a journey to prioritize well-being amidst opulence and tranquility leads us to the serene sanctuaries of luxury wellness spas around the globe. Nestled in breathtaking locations and designed with meticulous attention to detail, these havens redefine rejuvenation, offering a fusion of indulgence and holistic health experiences. From the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps to the lush tropical paradises of Southeast Asia, join us on an immersive exploration of nine handpicked luxury wellness spas that transcend the ordinary, inviting you to immerse yourself in unparalleled relaxation and revitalization.

(10) The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Iceland is a country I’ve never been to, even en route to the US as a stopover. The Blue Lagoon has always fascinated me, now designated (since 2012) as one of National Geographic’s 25 wonders of the world. There are two hotels on site, the original Silica Hotel and the newer (Retreat) more upscale property. The Retreat Hotel is all suite, with the premium suite being the Blue Lagoon Suite with its own private lagoon, steam room and sauna. There are various restaurants on site, with a whole array of experiences you can add on outwith (I have always wanted to see the Northern Lights) as well in-water massage, spa treatments, float therapy, and private wellness experiences too.

Fast Facts for the The Retreat Hotel at The Blue Lagoon Iceland

Address - The Retreat - Blue Lagoon Norðurljósavegur 11 240 Grindavík Iceland
Website - https://www.bluelagoon.com/accommodation/retreat-hotel
Group Website - https://www.bluelagoon.com
Contact - https://www.bluelagoon.com/contact
Instagram - @bluelagoonis
Nearest airport - Keflavík International Airport (KEF) 40km
Opened - 1992 for the Blue Lagoon itself, the Retreat Hotel opened in 2018
Number of rooms / suites - 60 suites (Lava Junior, Moss Junior, Lagoon View Junior, Moss Suite, Lagoon Suite & The Blue Lagoon Suite)
Programmes - No specific programmes but Included with your hotel stay unlimited access to the Retreat Spa and the Retreat Lagoon. Gourmet breakfast, Icelandic coffee time, morning yoga, and Blue Lagoon skincare also included.
Indicative Cost - Treaments and therapies variously priced, plus accommodation

(11) Joali Being, The Maldives

This is described as the first wellbeing island of its kind in the Maldives. A sister property to Joali Maldives, just a short boat ride away. There are Four Pillars of JOALI BEING – Mind, Skin, Microbiome and Energy. Various architecturally stunning buildings on the island help your transformational journey - like the Ocean Sala, Areka, Core, Aktar, Kaashi (the hydrotherapy hall), Seda (the sound therapy hall), as well as the Discovery Sound Path.

Fast Facts for Joali Being

Address - Bodufushi Island, Raa Atoll, Maldives
Website - https://www.joali.com/joali-being/
Group Website - https://www.joali.com
Contact - reservations.being@joali.com
Instagram - @joalibeing @joalimaldives
Nearest airport - Malé International (MLE) 40 minutes by seaplane
Opened - 2021
Number of villas / residences - 68
Programmes - Unwind & Relax, De-Stress, Gut Reset, Weight Rebalance, Reverse Ageing, Preventive Care, Movement, Motion, Mother-To-Be, Women’s Health, or Men’s Health
Indicative Cost - 7 nights $2,303 (£1,820 or €2,100) plus accommodation

(12) The Ranch Italy - Palazzo Fiuggi

Here the Palazzo Fiuggi method fuses the deepest holistic traditions with advanced traditional Western medicine. Their integrative approach elevates therapy beyond the treatment of symptoms to fully rejuvenate body, mind, and soul. Expect a personalized program with precisely tailored treatments that deliver measurable results. There are various programmes that can be offered with everything from longevity to detox, weight loss to re nourish, or an Ayurveda focus.

Fast Facts for Palazzo Fiuggi

Address - Via Dei Villini, 34, 03014 Fiuggi Fr, Italy
Website - https://www.palazzofiuggi.com
Group website - https://www.fortevillageresort.com
Contact - reservations@palazzofiuggi.com
Instagram - @palazzofiuggi
Nearest airport - Rome (FCO or CIA) 102km from Ficmicimo or 75km Ciampino
Opened - 2021
Number of rooms / suites - 102
Programmes - Longevity, Detox & Weight, Restore & Balance, Medical & Diagnostic, The Ranch at Palazzo Fiuggi, and various Retreats
Indicative Cost - 7 day programmes (fully inclusive) from €9,450 (£8,000 or $10,000)

(13) Aro Hā Wellness Retreat, New Zealand

The furthest by far from the UK of all wellness resorts featured here, but none the less interesting. In a very dramatic landscape, the philosophy here is designed to regenerate your body and mind, Aro Ha’s wellness programs are based on research that suggests they can fundamentally transform our physical and emotional health through our daily habits. Waking to the beautiful chimes of a Tibetan bowl, you’ll begin your day watching the sunrise over the New Zealand mountains from the yoga studio. After a perfectly balanced and nourishing breakfast, you’ll explore the subalpine trails, immersing yourself in the transformative power of nature. Mindfulness practices will be interweaved throughout your day as you partake in carefully curated activities; from cooking classes to functional strength training. Take time to unwind in the infrared sauna before you are called into your daily massage.

Fast Facts for Aro Hā Wellness Retreat

Address - 33 Station Valley Rd, Wyuna Rise, Glenorchy 9372, New Zealand
Website - https://aro-ha.com
Contact - retreat@aro-ha.com
Instagram - @aroharetreats
Nearest airport - Queenstown (ZQN) 48km
Opened - 2014
Number of accommodation units - 8
Retreats - Revive & Thrive, Reconnect and Nurture, Reconnet & Reset
Indicative Cost - 6 day/5 night (Revive & Thrive) from $6,950 NZD (£3,600 or $4,500 US) including accommodation

(14) Ananda in the Himalayas, India

I guess for me India has always seen as a place I would go one day ‘to find myself’, and I love the spiritual feelings I’ve had when I’ve been to India twice before already. Both these trips, though extensive, were never particularly wellness focused, nor have I been as far north as to the Himalayas. Ananda is described as the world’s most renowned holistic wellness retreat, a tranquil haven amidst the majestic Himalayan foothills of North India. Residing in the former Palace Estate of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal, it sprawls across the 100-acre grounds, gardens and surrounding forests, boasting world-class wellness facilities and a chance to return to the peaceful solitude of nature. 

This spiritual location, the birthplace of Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation, has attracted wellness seekers from around the world to Ananda on an annual pilgrimage. Ananda integrates traditional Ayurveda and holistic wellbeing with yoga and meditation, emotional healing, spiritual awareness, and healthy organic cuisine to restore balance and harmonize energy.

Fast Facts for Ananda in the Himalayas

Address - Palace Estate Narendra Na, Tehri Garhwal, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India, 249175
Website - https://www.anandaspa.com
Contact - reservations@anandaspa.com
Instagram - @anandainthehimalayas
Nearest airport - Jolly Grant Airport - Dehradun (DED) 24km; Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi Airport - DEL) 270km
Opened - 2000
Number of rooms / suites - 70 guest rooms, 5 suites, and 3 villas
Programmes - Three Foundation Wellness programmes (from 5 nights) or a customised plan; three different Comprehensive Wellness programmes (from 7 nights) under each category - Detox & Cleansing, Rejuvenation & Immunity, and Mental Health & Spiritual Balance
Indicative Cost - 5 night Yoga Foundation Wellness $9,145 (£7,200 or €8,300) Deluxe Garden View (including meals and accommodation too)

(15) MAYRLIFE Resort Altaussee, Austria

The MAYRLIFE Medical Health Resort lies directly on the shores of Lake Altaussee, one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. Surrounded by breathtaking countryside with a fabulous mountain backdrop, anyone searching for recovery, relaxation and health will find the perfect conditions to activate both body and spirit here in Altaussee.

Outstanding medical expertise, cutting-edge technology and a broad range of therapies bring the traditional treatment approach of Dr. F. X. Mayr to life. At the heart of the regeneration process are detoxification and purification programs that reactivate the body’s self-healing powers and lead to newfound health.

It came onto my radar (used to be known as Vivamayr Altaussee) when apparently Rebel Wilson started her ‘year of health’ here in 2020.

Fast Facts for MAYRLIFE Resort Altaussee

Address - Fischerndorf 222, Altaussee
Website - http://www.mayrlife.com/en
Contact - reservations@mayrlife.com
Instagram - @mayrlife_official
Nearest airport - Salzburg airport: 1 hr, Linz airport: 1 hr. 45 min, Munich airport: 3 hrs, Vienna airport: 3 hrs
Opened - TBC
Number of rooms / suites - 70 (Rooms, Suites, Penthouse, or Park Residence)
Programmes - Classic, Healthy Aging, Weight Control, Active Detox, Stress Control, Anti-inflammatory Skin, Diabetes, and Sports Performance Boost
Indicative Cost - Classic (one week) from €2,510 / Weight Care (one week) €3,920 ($4,300 or £3,400) plus accommodation from c. €300 pppn

(16) VIVAMAYR Medical Health Resort Maria Wörth

As well as the medical Health Resort Maria Wörth, Austria, there is also a day clinic in London and VIVAMAYR at BIOGENA Plaza Vienna. The VIVAMAYR Medical Health Resort by Lake Wörthersee is the cradle of Modern Mayr Medicine. In this unique location with its own generous lakeside plot and the breathtaking backdrop, relaxation is impossible to resist. You are supported by our doctors and therapists with treatments that are individually adapted to your needs. The invigorating VIVAMAYR Health Concept, based on the diagnostics and therapy of Dr. F. X. Mayr, marks the start of your journey to greater health and well-being.

Fast Facts for VIVAMAYR

Address - Seepromenade 11, Maria Wörth, Austria
Website - http://www.vivamayr.com/en/welcome
Contact - office@vivamayr.com
Instagram - @vivamayrmariawoerth @viviamayr
Nearest airport - Klagenfurt Austria (KLU) only 20km, or Ljubljana airport (LJU) in Slovenia 70km
Opened - 2005
Number of rooms / suites - 46 (Comfort Lake/Mountain View, Standard, Deluxe, Junior Suite, Suite, Apartments or Villa)
Programmes - Classic, Weight Care, Body & Mind Detox, Post Covid, Immune Boost, Anti-inflammatory Skin, Diabetes, and Active Breath) 1 to 2 weeks
Indicative Cost - Example, Body & Mind Detox 7 nights $TBC

(17) Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, Italy

Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti is set in the splendid scenery of the Dolomites, declared by UNESCO a “World Heritage Site”. This is more akin to Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa where it’s a luxury hotel with an incredible spa, and in such an incredible location but you wouldn’t say was perhaps a residential wellness spa only. There are of course lots of treatments and therapies, some packaged together, but with a choice of a couple of restaurants and bars during your stay.

Fast Facts for Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti

Address - Via Alpe di Grual 16, 38086 Pinzolo TN, Italy
Website - https://dolomiti.lefayresorts.com/en
Group Website - https://www.lefayresorts.com/en
Contact - res.dolomiti@lefayresorts.com
Instagram - @lefayresorts
Nearest airport - Verona Villafranca (53 miles south)
Opened - 2019
Number of suites - 88
Programmes - Mainly just accommodation and treatments, but some mini beauty & wellness packages are available. Beauty for Men or Women, Purifying, Osteopathy, Ayurveda, The Scents of the Forest, Cardio Fitness, Strength & Sport, Mind & Body, or Intensive Fitness.
Indicative Cost - Purifying €780 plus accommodation

(18) Euphoria Retreat, Greece

Described as “A world first and the vision of Marina Efraimoglou – our warm, vivacious and loving founder – Euphoria Retreat is widely regarded as Europe’s leading wellbeing destination spa hotel. Offering a unique combination of interconnected philosophies, scientific innovation and healing modalities, Euphoria evolved organically from a passion born out of Marina’s personal path. Overcoming cancer in her late 20s, Marina was driven to success but ultimately exhaustion in the world of investment banking. Close to the brink, she sought to bring back some much-needed balance to her life through an exploration and study of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Five Elements and other alternative health methods. Inspired by her own recovery, Marina then decided to create a place of healing where people could be gently guided and motivated to live a more holistic, balanced and spiritually satisfying way of life.”

Fast Facts for Euphoria Retreat

Address - Euphoria Retreat, Mystras, Sparta, Greece
Website - https://www.euphoriaretreat.com
Contact - reservations@euphoriaretreat.com
Instagram - @euphoriaretreat
Nearest airport - Only 2.5hrs from Athens and less than an hour from Kalamata airport
Opened - 2018
Number of rooms / suites - 45
Programmes & Retreats - Various programmes include Emotional Harmony (5/7 days), Wellbeing Detox (3/5/7 days), Weight Metabolic Management (7/10/14/21 days), Yoga & Mindfulness (3/5/7 days), Fitness Boost (5/7 days), Signature Nutrigenomics (7/14/21 days), Relax & De-Stress (3/5/7 days), Balance & Recover (5/7 days), and more
Indicative Cost - Example Relax & De-Stress (7 days) €3,478 (£3,000 or $3,800) plus accommodation

Book With Exclusive Benefits

Ready to Plan Your Wellness Escape?

Each of these retreats offers a beautiful space to recharge — and when you book through The Private Traveller, you’ll unlock exclusive benefits at many of them. Think complimentary breakfast, $100+ resort or spa credit, room upgrades on arrival, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability).

Whether you’re dreaming of a solo reset or a curated wellness escape with friends, I’d love to help you plan your perfect retreat.

📧 Email: dave.gillan@fora.travel
📝 Request your trip: theprivatetraveller.com/travel-request-form
🌍 Explore more: theprivatetraveller.com

I love to travel the world, with a particular focus on wellness which can encompass everything from relaxation to fitness, therapeutic or pampering spa treatments, hydrotherapy and thermal experiences, yoga, pilates and more. I tend to pick hotels with great spas, and although I have stayed at The Londoner before it is definitely somewhere I have wanted to return to. I’m combining it this trip with another favourite group, Four Seasons, but I’ve never been to their Ten Trinity property in London before.

The full detailed itinerary for the trip is below. All photos credit @fstentrinity & @thelondoner.

Book Your London Wellness Break with VIP Perks

If you’re inspired by this two-centre London spa escape, I’d love to help you book your own getaway — complete with exclusive VIP benefits through The Private Traveller and my affiliation with Fora Travel.

Enjoy elevated service and added value when you stay at:

🏨 Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge

• Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

• Daily breakfast for two

• $100 hotel credit to use during your stay

• Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

🏨 The Londoner

• Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

• Daily breakfast for two

• $100 resort credit

• Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

✨ These perks are available only when booking with a Fora Travel Advisor — and they come at no extra cost to you.

📩 Ready to plan your London wellness break? Submit a travel request or email me at dave.gillan@fora.travel.

Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge

Thanks to my booking through The Private Traveller as a Fora Travel Advisor, I was able to enjoy a number of exclusive Virtuoso perks during my stay at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge, including:

• 🛏️ Upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

• 🥐 Daily continental breakfast for two, served in The Rotunda or via in-room dining

• 💳 $100 USD hotel credit

• 📶 Complimentary Wi-Fi

As a long-time fan of Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, I’ve stayed at their properties in Lisbon, Mexico City, and Las Vegas — with Johannesburg next on my list. London is fortunate to have two properties: the elegant Park Lane location, and this beautifully restored building near the Tower of London.

A highlight for me is always the spa. The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge offers a standout Autograph Experience called Prestigious Cocooning — a two-hour sensorial hammam ritual. It combines a deep black soap scrub, exfoliation with a kessa glove, Miel d’Ambre polish, bathing, gentle stretching, and finishes with an argan oil massage using marocMaroc products — pure wellness indulgence.

I’ll also be visiting the striking Rotunda Bar for pre-dinner drinks before dining at Mei Ume, the hotel’s beautifully executed Japanese and Chinese fusion restaurant.

Fast Facts for Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge

Address - 10 Trinity Square, London EC3N 4AJ
Website - https://www.fourseasons.com/tentrinity/
Group website - https://www.fourseasons.com
TripAdvisor ranking - #90 of 1142 hotels in London
Contact - Four Seasons App or Web page above
Instagram - @fstentrinity
Nearest airport - London City (LCY) 10 km or 6 miles (about a 25 min drive, traffic dependent), or Heathrow (LHR) 39 km or 25 miles (about a 70 min drive, traffic dependent)
Opened - 2017
Number of rooms / suites - 100 including 11 suites
Number of floors - 4
Bars - 2 (Rotunda Bar, Bloom Cocktails)
Restaurants - 3 (La Dame De Pic London [French], Mei Ume [Chinese & Japanese], Rotunda Lounge)
Wellbeing - Spa (swimming pool, vitality pool, hammam), Fitness Centre, Gielly Green Salon (hairdressing & male grooming)
Visiting - September 2023

The Londoner: Super Boutique Hotel, Leicester Square

Booking through Classic Travel and their Preferred Platinum rate got me extra benefits here at The Londoner, like

• Daily breakfast for two for duration of the stay 

• $100 USD Resort Credit to be used during stay

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

• Room Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Priority Check in and Check out, subject to availability

We’ve stayed here before and really loved the experience. The hotel is in such an amazing location, right in the heart of London just off Leicester Square. The building is so impressive, the eight levels that are visible above ground are matched by another eight below. You could be forgiven for thinking these basement levels would be oppressive and dark, but they are anything but. There is the incredible hotel spa, The Retreat, with a choice of hydrotherapy and thermal experiences, along with spa treatments and therapies, beauty, hair and men’s grooming facilities.

Although there is a huge choice of restaurants, bars, and cafés on the hotel’s doorstop, within the hotel itself you can choose from The Residence (a guest only bar/lounge/restaurant), Whitcomb’s French Mediterranean, Joshua’s Traditional Tavern, The Stage (great for a champagne afternoon tea), Refuel (in the spa facility) and the rooftop 8 At The Londoner, the Izakaya Japanese bar and restaurant. We have tried them all, and plan to do so again on this trip. They’re all so different, but great in their own right; from sitting poolside in the spa to the outdoor terrace on the roof.

Why Stay at The Londoner with The Private Traveller

For the second part of this London wellness escape, I stayed at The Londoner — a sleek, stylish city hotel located in the heart of Leicester Square. With its design-led interiors, subterranean wellness space, and understated luxury, it’s a fantastic option for those looking for a more contemporary city break.

When you book The Londoner through The Private Traveller as a Fora Travel Advisor, you’ll unlock exclusive VIP benefits, including:

• 🛏️ Room upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

• 🥐 Daily breakfast for two

• 💳 $100 resort credit to use during your stay

• 🕰️ Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)

• 📶 Complimentary Wi-Fi

During my stay, I took full advantage of The Retreat — The Londoner’s wellness floor, complete with a hydropool, sauna, and a private gym. The space feels effortlessly tranquil despite being steps from London’s busiest neighbourhoods. It’s ideal for winding down after a busy day exploring the city or as part of a full-on spa break.

📩 To book your stay with these exclusive perks, submit a travel request or email me at dave.gillan@fora.travel.

Fast Facts for The Londoner: Super Boutique Hotel

Address - 38 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7DX, United Kingdom
Website - https://www.thelondoner.com/
Group website - https://www.edwardian.com/
TripAdvisor ranking - #200 of 1142 hotels in London
Contact - reservations@thelondoner.com
Instagram - @thelondoner
Nearest airport - Heathrow (LHR) 24 km or 15 miles (about a 1 hour drive, traffic dependent)
Opened - 2021
Number of rooms / suites - 350 total
Number of floors - 16
Bars - 3 (Joshua’s Tavern, Whitcomb’s, & 8 At The Londoner)
Eateries - 6 (Whitcomb’s, Joshua’s Tavern, 8 At The Londoner, The Stage, Refuel, & The Residence for guests only)
Wellbeing - The Retreat Spa (swimming pool, hydropool, sauna, steam room and secluded poolside cabanas), Treatments (Omorovicza, Ila, Ishga & Gentlemen’s Tonic), The Gym, Hair and Beauty (AMA Nails, Joe Vipond Gentleman’s Grooming & Hiro Miyoshi Hair & Beauty)
Re-visiting - September 2023

Actual Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1 Fly with British Airways from Edinburgh to London City

  • Car service arranged with Blacklane direct to the hotel

  • Treatment booked Prestigious Cocooning

  • Pre-dinner drinks at the Rotunda Bar

  • Dinner at Mei Ume

• Day 2 Transfer to The Londoner

  • Treatments booked include:

    • Out of Office 90 mins

    • Beard trim and shave at Joe Vipond

  • Early dinner at The Residence

  • Sunset Boulevard at the Savoy Theatre

• Day 3 The Londoner

• Champagne afternoon tea at The Stage

• Steven Sondheim Concert at the Gielgud Theatre

• Post-theatre late supper at the rooftop 8 At The Londoner

• Day 4 LNER train back to Edinburgh

  • Leisurely breakfast

  • Late morning return train

Final Thoughts on Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge & The Londoner

Whenever I travel, I love sharing not just the full itinerary (as detailed above), but also in-depth hotel reviews, spa experiences, and personal reflections on what makes each destination unique. You’ll find even more insights over on my Instagram and YouTube channel, where I feature behind-the-scenes content, visual hotel tours, and moments from the journey.

If either of these London properties — or this two-centre city wellness break — has inspired your own travel plans, I’d be delighted to help you book with exclusive perks through The Private Traveller and my affiliation with Fora Travel.

👇 Explore more travel stories below — and when you’re ready, submit your travel request here to start planning your next escape.

I love to travel the world, with a particular focus on wellness which can encompass everything from relaxation to fitness, therapeutic or pampering spa treatments, hydrotherapy and thermal experiences, yoga, pilates and more. I would tend to pick hotels with great spas, and although I have stayed at Cameron House on Loch Lomond in Scotland a couple of times, it was many, many years ago before their Cameron/Carrick Spa opened which is now their prime spa.

With this mini break being opportunistic (we have been invited to a wedding at the Gleddoch), we first thought we would stay nearby at Mar Hall for a couple of nights, which is only about 5 miles (say a 10 min drive) to the Gleddoch, before then going onto Cameron House, which is a just about a 30 minute from either hotel. As it turns out, having stayed for work at Mar Hall recently, I’m so glad we’re not going back there. It was abundantly clear that this resort needed extensive renovations and refurbishment, and ironically it’s been announced recently that it has gone into administration. As Renfrewshire’s only five-star hotel, and being such a magnificent historic building in such an incredibly scenic location, it’s a real shame that it had fallen into such a state of disrepair. I understand the administrators are currently looking for a new buyer, who will have to have very deep pockets, but this is a resort (with significant investment) that could rival Gleneagles or indeed Cameron House.

The full detailed itinerary for the trip is below. All photos credit @cameronhouselochlomond & @gleddoch and thank you to The Dovetail Agency for their assistance.

Book Cameron House with VIP Perks

If you're considering a luxury escape to Cameron House on Loch Lomond, I’d be delighted to help you book your stay with exclusive VIP benefits through The Private Traveller and my affiliation with Fora Travel.

As part of the Virtuoso programme, Cameron House offers valuable extras when booked through a recognised travel advisor — at no additional cost to you.

✨ VIP Perks at Cameron House Include:

• 🛏️ Room upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• 🥐 Daily full Scottish breakfast for two guests

• 💳 $100 USD equivalent hotel credit per stay (to use on spa, dining, or activities)

• 🕰️ Early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability

• 📶 Complimentary Wi-Fi

Whether you're drawn by the indulgent Cameron Spa, the fine dining at Tamburrini & Wishart, or the natural beauty of Loch Lomond, booking with me ensures you receive added value, seamless service, and personalised care from the moment you enquire.

📩 Start planning your spa break or Scottish getaway — submit a travel request or email me at dave.gillan@fora.travel.

Cameron House Hotel, Loch Lomond

Booking through Virtuoso and Classic Travel got me extra benefits here at Cameron House, like

• Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

• Daily full breakfast, for up to two guests per bedroom

• Cruise on Loch Lomond on Celtic Warrior, once during stay

• Nip of Whisky from the Virtuoso Whisky Locker

• Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

• Complimentary Wi-Fi

There was such a choice of accommodations, but I opted for a Loch View Studio Suite in the ‘Auld House’ which, following an extraordinary restoration to the historical 17th century Baronial mansion, is home to a collection of 14 exquisitely restored suites, each named after one of Loch Lomond’s islands’. Inspired by Loch Lomond and with design influence from Glasgow’s very own Timorous Beasties, they celebrate the history and heritage of the original building. Guests residing in the Auld House Suites also receive enhanced amenities. We have dinner booked one night in the Cameron Grill and the other in the fine-dining tasting menu restaurant, Tamburrini & Wishart.

In terms of spa, I’m looking forward to going back to use the Leisure Club, which is the pool and gym facility in the hotel itself, but what I’m looking forward to most is our planned visit to the Cameron Spa, at The Carrick. I understand a new spa facility was built on their golf course, and there are regular shuttles that go between the sites, which seems to be just 3 miles and takes less than 10 minutes. With ESPA (a favourite of mine for spa treatments) being one of their key brands, they offer a whole array of treatments like facials, massages, add-ons like scrubs, foot treatments, hot stones etc. and “final flourishes” like manicures and pedicures. What particularly interested me was the option to have the private couples suite upgrade, which (for only an add-on of £60) you have an hour’s access to a private hammam jacuzzi bath with your treatments then following in the same room. I’ve booked a Deep Muscle Massage with Hot Stones for me, ‘Mrs’ The Private Traveller is having Men’s Hero - Back, Face & Scalp Treatment with Hot Stones.

It was easy to book online, the only thing that couldn’t be done online was the couples suite upgrade. I was able to phone and do this, albeit it seemed to take a while to get organised, and full payment had to be made which seemed odd when you can reserve a suite in advance without paying, but they make you pay for any spa treatments in full in advance.

In terms of other things, we also have a cruise booked on the loch in their Celtic Warrior, which seems to be just an hour and takes in some of the loch’s islands, including Inchmurrin and some hidden coves only visible by boat. 

Let Me Curate Your Stay at Cameron House

Thinking of booking Cameron House on Loch Lomond? As a Fora Travel Advisor, I can help you make the most of your experience — not only by securing your stay, but by enhancing it with thoughtful touches and exclusive VIP perks.

From the moment you check in, you’ll feel the difference: possible room upgrades, daily breakfast, a $100 hotel credit, and flexible check-in/out — all included when you book through The Private Traveller.

More than just a reservation, I’ll tailor your entire visit — whether you're planning a romantic retreat, a spa weekend, or a full Scotland itinerary that includes private transfers, whisky tastings, and more.

📩 Let’s start crafting your Loch Lomond escape — submit a travel request or email me directly at dave.gillan@fora.travel.

Fast Facts for Cameron House Hotel on Loch Lomond

Address - Loch Lomond, West Dunbartonshire, G83 8QZ, Scotland, United Kingdom
Website - https://www.cameronhouse.co.uk/
TripAdvisor ranking - #6 of 22 hotels in Alexandria
Contact - reservations@cameronhouse.co.uk
Instagram - @cameronhouselochlomond
Nearest airport - Glasgow International (GLA) 26 km or 17 miles (less than a 30 min drive), Edinburgh (EDI) 64 miles
Opened - 1990 (re-opened 2021 after refurbishment)
Number of rooms / suites - 208
Number of floors - 3
Bars - 4 (Great Scots’, Tavern, Lobby & Boat House)
Restaurants - 5 (Tamburrini & Wishart, Cameron Grill, Boat House, Club House, and Spa Café)
Wellbeing - Leisure Club (in hotel) with 18m pool, sauna & steam room, bubble pool and gym/studios/classes, Carrick Spa nearby (rooftop infinity pool, hydrotherapy pool, ice fountain, experience showers, relaxation pool, Tepidarium, Caldarium, Sauna, Infrared Sauna, Hammam, Aromatherapy Room, treatments etc.), Golf, Cinema, Watersports on the Loch etc.
Visiting - September 2023

Gleddoch Hotel & Spa

Staying for a couple of nights, we arrive before the wedding day itself and I took the opportunity to book some treatments at the Gleddoch Imperia Spa. What I liked about the (very) easy online booking system was that you pick your treatment, then add an extra treatment if you want, select which guest this was for, and your preferred day and time. If the treatment had options, the booking engine would allow you to select your preferred treatments in advance. Then the best part, where you could add enhancements like a bottle of Prosecco, a bucket of beers, chocolate dipped strawberries etc. 

As well as treatments, there’s a large indoor pool, sauna, steam room, experience shower and a heated outdoor spa pool, which hopefully we’ll be able to find time to take advantage of them all. We have dinner booked at their Vista Restaurant, and we’ll definitely try out their gin bar. There is a good choice of rooms and suites with everything from Classic, Executive, Junior Suite to a Premier room before you go into the choice of The Four Poster, Heritage Junior, Clyde or Royal Suites. The Royal Suite being reserved for the bride and groom, we opted for the next best which is the Clyde Suite. This has its own hot tub in the bedroom, a separate lounge, bedroom and bathroom, views of the Clyde Estuary and features Penhaligon’s toiletries, one of my favourite brands.

Fast Facts for Gleddoch Hotel & Spa

Address - Old Greenock Road, Langbank PA14 6YE, Scotland, United Kingdom
Website - https://www.gleddoch.com/
TripAdvisor ranking - #1 of 2 hotels in Langbank
Contact - reservations@gleddoch.com
Instagram - @gleddoch
Nearest airport - Glasgow International (GLA) 15 km or 9 miles (about a 15 min drive)
Opened - 1974
Number of rooms / suites - 70 total
Number of floors - 3
Bars - 2 (Dram Whisky & Gin Bar, The Nineteenth Bar)
Restaurants - 1 (Vista)
Wellbeing - 17 metre indoor heated pool, Sauna, Steam room, Experience shower, Heated outdoor spa pool, Conservatory, Heated loungers, Outdoor terrace with panoramic Clyde views, Nail salon, Relaxation room, Six treatment rooms including a couples treatment room, Fully equipped gym, Golf
Visiting - September 2023

Actual Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1 Drive from Edinburgh to Gleddoch Hotel

  • Treatments booked include:

    • Ishga Men’s Bespoke Facial

    • Ishga Invigorating Full Body Massage

    • Mini Manicures

  • Dinner at Vista Restaurant

• Day 2 Gleddoch Hotel & Spa

  • Morning relaxation

  • Afternoon and evening Wedding

• Day 3 Drive from Gleddoch to Cameron House

• Relaxation at the Leisure Club or Cameron Spa

• Dinner at the Cameron Grill

• Day 4 Cameron House on Loch Lomond

  • Treatments booked include:

    • Private Couples Suite

    • Deep Muscle Massage with Hot Stones

    • Men’s Hero - Back, Face & Scalp Treatment with Hot Stones

  • Celtic Warrior Loch Cruise

  • Dinner Tamburrini & Wishart

• Day 5 Cameron House on Loch Lomond

  • Drive back after a leisurely breakfast

Final Thoughts

Every time I travel, I aim to share the full story — from curated travel itineraries to detailed hotel and spa reviews, offering an honest and personal look at each experience. You’ll also find exclusive content on my Instagram and YouTube channel, including behind-the-scenes moments, video tours, and more.

👇 Explore the links below for more destination inspiration, and don’t forget to follow along or leave a comment — I’d love to hear your thoughts!

With my having such an interest in spa treatments, I did recently take the opportunity when he was working over a weekend to get myself to Switzerland to visit the iconic Bürgenstock Resort. I really enjoyed the spa focus and my four days away - endless treatments and therapies without having to put up with the sighs and frustration by not doing more things other than wellness related. The idea of a calorie-restricted/focussed diet plan would not be seen as acceptable either, so definitely something I will need to do solo! I love writing about these experiences, and you can read all about the exceptional experience I had at Bürgenstock on my website.

(1) Bürgenstock Resort, Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Even though I have already visited Bürgenstock, I couldn’t not include it within this exceptional list. The facilities were amazing and whilst not a dedicated health resort per se, the extensive list of treatments and therapies available at their Alpine Spa, in conjunction with the Waldhotel (more medical focussed) spa, makes this resort more than eligible here in my book. I definitely want to return, and having been there in summer, I think it would be good to trial a different experience in winter.

Fast Facts for the Bürgenstock Resort

Address - Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, CH-6363 Obbürgen, Switzerland
Website - https://burgenstockresort.com/en
Group Website - https://burgenstockresort.com/en/spa/buergenstock-alpine-spa
Contact - alpine.spa@burgenstockresort.com
Instagram - @burgenstockresort @burgenstockcollection
Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 84km
Opened - 1873 (of the original Grand Hotel) refurbished/redeveloped 2017
Number of rooms / suites - 211 total (135 rooms, 76 suites) - Burgenstock Hotel (Contemporary & Heritage Wings)
Programmes - No specific programmes but a wonderful choice of treatments and therapies at both Alpline and the Walhotel Spa
Indicative Cost - Treaments and therapies variously priced, plus accommodation

(2) Chenot Palace Weggis, Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Chenot Palace Weggis first came onto my radar, being only a few km away from where I was staying at the Bürgenstock Resort recently, across the lake near Lucerne in Switzerland. As much as I enjoyed Bürgenstock it did remind me that I have always wanted to experience a dedicated health and wellness resort. Bürgenstock was definitely an amazing hotel (well, two hotels actually) with two incredible spa facilities, but it was also indulgent in terms of food and drink options.

There seems to be three main programmes at Chenot Palace Weggis, all of which are based on a selection of treatments and therapies across 6 days, for a plan where you stay 7 nights. As well as the location in Weggis, there is also another (Chenot Palace Gabala) in Azerbaijan. Chenot Palace is the umbrella for the full experience wellbeing facilities, Chenot Espace where you can have the same detox and reset transformation journey but in a hotel setting (Italy & Montenegro) then Chenot Spa in hotels in both Malaysia and Morocco.

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Fast Facts for the Chenot Palace Weggis

Address - Hertensteinstrasse 34, 6353 Weggis, Switzerland
Website - https://www.chenotpalaceweggis.com/
Group Website - https://www.chenot.com
Contact - info@chenotpalaceweggis.com
Instagram - @chenotpalaceweggis @chenot_official @chenotpalacegabala
Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 65km
Opened - 2020
Number of rooms / suites - 97
Programmes - Advanced Detox, Recover & Energise, Prevention & Ageing Well
Indicative Cost - 7 nights CHF 5,300 - 6,900 (£4,700 - £6,200, $6,000 - $7,800, €5,500 - €7,200) plus accommodation

(3) Villa Stéphanie at Brenners Park, Baden-Baden, Germany

Baden-Baden in Germany, meaning ‘The Baths in Baden’ , is a spa town in South West Germany, and one of the 11”Great Spa Towns of Europe” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s somewhere I’ve had on my radar for such a long time, but haven’t yet been.

Brenners Park Hotel & Spa, part of the Oetker Collection, has been their flagship hotel for over 150 years. Their Villa Stéphanie Spa and Wellbeing destination is where you can experience recuperative, preventative and luxurious treatment in spectacular surroundings. There is a whole range of accommodation types in this hotel resort, but there are also dedicated Villa Stéphanie spa rooms (Superior & Deluxe) along with three exclusive corner suites with a private spa. The Medical Care facility focuses more on integrative holistic medicine, aesthetic dentistry, physiotherapy & medical fitness, aesthetic medicine, and nutrition consultations.

Fast Facts for Villa Stéphanie at Brenners Park

Address - Schillerstraße 4/6, 76530 Baden-Baden, Germany
Website - https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/brenners-park-hotel-spa/villa-stephanie-spa-wellbeing/
Group Website - https://www.oetkercollection.com
Contact - information.brenners@oetkercollection.com 
Instagram - @villastephaniebadenbaden @brennersparkhotel @oetkercollection
Nearest airport - Frankfurt International (FRA) 168km
Opened - 2014
Number of rooms / suites - 15 (105 guestrooms Brenners Park)
Programmes - Integrative holistic medicine, aesthetic dentistry, physiotherapy & medical fitness, aesthetic medicine, and nutrition consultations
Indicative Cost - e.g. 7 days Detox & Weight Loss CHF 5,070 (£4,500; $5,700; €5,300) plus accommodation

(4) SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain

SHA Wellness will have three locations, the one featured here in Spain (near Alicante) but also in both Mexico (due to open in Costa Mujeres, Quintana Roo in December 2023) and Emirates due to open in 2024-25 at AlJurf, the Riviera of the Emirates. The Spanish location has been there for 25 years, and benefits from 300 days of sunshine (on average) every year.

There are suites and residences, with a focus on their wellness clinic offering a wide range of treatments, nutrition in their SHAmadi Restaurant, fitness (state-of-the-art machinery and outdoor space to improve performance and flexibility), relaxation (Zen gardens) and leisure/learning with activities for lasting wellness like talks, healthy cooking classes and mind-body sessions.

The Health programmes are varied with specific focus areas like Rejuvenation, Stress Relief & Corporate, Weight-Control and Detox, or Wellness. Programme lengths vary from 4 to 21 days and they have a great comparison tool on their website to be able to compare and contrast what different programmes offer in their specific goals. The programme cost includes full board but accommodation is additional where you can choose your preference (a choice of suite - Deluxe/Superior/Grand/Presidential or Penthouse/Premier/Garden residence). I really liked the detail of the website, when drilling into an individual programme you will see what each of the days looks like and all the medical services, healthy nutrition, natural therapies, wellness and mind/body inclusions are.

Fast Facts for SHA Wellness Clinic

Address - Carrer del Verderol, 5, 03581 L'Albir, Alicante, Spain
Website - https://shawellness.com/en/locations/sha-spain/
Group website - https://shawellness.com/en/
Contact - info@shawellness.com
Instagram - @shawellness
Nearest airport - Alicante (ALC) 83km
Opened - 2008
Number of rooms / suites - 92
Programmes - Leader’s Performance, Rebalance, Healthy Ageing, Intensive | Optimal Weight and Advanced Detox, Advanced Detox, and Optimal Weight
Indicative Cost - e.g. Leader’s Performance 7 days from €6,800 (£5,800 or $7,400) plus accommodation

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(5) Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

Bad Ragaz in Switzerland, which seems to have more than its fair share of exclusive and incredible spas (as I found out recently with my visit to the Bürgenstock Resort on Lake Lucerne, has always been on my radar too since really developing a love of spa and wellness. Being a huge fan of the BBC TV programme, Amazing Hotels - Life Beyond the Lobby (more so with the Monica Galetti and Giles Coren dynamic), I only discovered recently that we had missed an episode back in Series 3 (episode 3) featuring the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz. The resort is part of Leading Hotels of the World (always a favourite of mine) as well as being part of Virtuoso too. There are two key spas here - the hotel’s Thermal Spa (such an incredible looking facility) but there is also the Tamina Therme (a public thermal spa) featured in the TV programme with Monica.

This is such a classic resort with their thermal waters, and it was so interesting seeing the programme where they showed where the waters came from; how they used to get to the resort and how this has evolved over the years with science and technology. Their ‘NEWYOU Method’ has six pillars of healthy living - being Harmony, Wellbeing, Exercise, Food, Nature & Beauty. Packages range from 3 to 7 days, or you can create your own bespoke (tailored to you) package if nothing fits your requirements. Again here the standard packages are very well explained on the website with a detailed PDF brochure for each along with an example of the daily itinerary too. Accommodation again is over and above here.

Fast Facts for Grand Resort Bad Ragaz

Address - Bernhard-Simon-Strasse 20, 7310 Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
Website - https://www.resortragaz.ch/en/
Group website - https://www.resortragaz-gruppe.ch/en/
Contact - reservation@resortragaz.ch
Instagram - @resortragaz
Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 87km
Opened - 1868 (Hotel Quellenhof is built in Ragaz)
Number of rooms / suites - 233
Programmes - Various NEWYOU packages, or a package can be bespoke
Indicative Cost - e.g. 7 nights Detox & Health Cleansing CHF 7,650 (£6,800; $8,700; €8,000) plus accommodation

(6) Chiva-Som, Hua Hin, Thailand

Probably the one which has peaked my interest for the longest time, also having such a love of long-haul travel and Thailand as such an amazing unique country, is Chiva-Som. This has been on the go for almost thirty years, tying in with the age at which I really started to travel more to longer haul destinations, as well as my discovery of spa treatments and more of a focus on my own personal health and wellbeing. Located in Hua Hin, actually not an island but on the Thai mainland, about a two-hour drive south from the capital Bangkok. Although there is a Hua HIn airport, this doesn’t seem to be particularly well serviced so a likely route would be to fly into Bangkok before going by road to Chiva-Som.

As well as the original resort in Thailand, as of March last year (2022) they opened a second property, Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, in Qatar. North of the capital, Doha, which would be exceptionally well serviced by Qatar Airways (a OneWorld alliance and one of my top airlines of anywhere in the world - QSuites are phenomenal!), less than a 90-minute drive (about 116km) the Zulal Wellness Resort I could see would be a great starting point for a two-centre wellness experience. I’ll focus here in this post on Thailand, but with very regular flights from the UK (various airports, including at least one daily flight from Edinburgh) and Bangkok being an easy-connection onward flight, I would love to compare and contrast on the same trip the two facilities, and see how cultural and geographical influences shape the experiences.

In terms of Chiva-Som Hua Hin, there are a selection of different retreats, and the website is really good for being explanatory about what they include and online booking too. Unlike many wellness resorts, the retreats seem to be fully inclusive with all the treatments and therapies that each entail, but also accommodation (and three daily wellness cruising meals, laundry, etc.), health/wellness consultations, complimentary (optional) physical and skin analyses, daily fitness and leisure activities, unlimited use of water therapy suites (steam, sauna and Jacuzzi) as well as a complimentary daily spa treatment and post-stay wellness follow-up.

Fast Facts for Chiva-Som Hua Hin

Address - 73/4-6 Soi Moo Baan Nong Kae, Phet Kasem Road, Nong Kaw, Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Website - https://www.chivasom.com/en/chiva-som-hua-hin/
Group Website - https://www.chivasom.com/en/
Contact - reservations@chivasom.com
Instagram - @chivasominternational @chivasonhuahin @zulalwellnessresort
Nearest airport - Hua Hin (HHQ) 18km, Bangkok International (BKK) 229km
Opened - 1995
Number of rooms / suites - 54
Retreats - Many to choose including Spa Wellbeing, Optimal Performance, Nature’s Embrace, Immune Resilience and more
Indicative Cost - e.g. 7 nights A Taste of Chiva-Som from THB 247,170 (£5,600; $7,000; €6,500) including accommodation

(7) Lanserhof Tegernesee, Germany

In complete contrast to Chiva-Som, which as I said had been on my (spa/wellness) radar for such a long time, Lanserhof was made aware to me much more recently. With having interaction with Pepper & Seed, a boutique brand and communications agency in London; initially over one of their Sri Lankan hotel clients (Teardrop Hotels) but then on realising they also represent The Arts Club London, that was where I first found Lanserhof, who have their private wellness clinic in the building.

On further investigation and research, Lanserhof was firmly ensconced in my desired go-to spa and wellness list. With three properties across two countries, Resort Lans in Tyrol since 1984 (Austria) and their newest location at Sylt which has only recently opened in Germany (summer 2022); I’ve focused here on the original German location at Tegernsee, which opened in 2014.

In terms of programmes, Lanserhof seem to have the most distilled option, the Lanserhof Concept. With two options, the Lanserhof Cure Classic (7 days) or Advanced Cure (14 days) plus extra diagnostics and therapies available on both plans, these aren’t resorts which offer the flexibility of some others for shorter programmes. I’d be very keen to try a minimum of a week to start with, but wouldn’t be adverse (if time allowed) for a longer plan either.

Fast Facts for Lanserhof Tegernsee, Germany

Address - Gut Steinberg 1-4, 83666 Waakirchen, Germany
Website - https://lanserhof.com/en/lanserhof-tegernsee/
Group Website - https://lanserhof.com/en/
Contact - info.tegernsee@lanserhof.com
Instagram - @lanserhof
Nearest airport - Innsbruck (INN) 59km or Munich (MUC) 72km
Opened - 2014
Number of rooms / suites - 70
Programmes - Lanserhof Cure Classic or Advanced plus extra diagnostics and therapies available
Indicative Cost - 7-8 nights Lanserhof Cure Classic €2,918 (£2,500 or $3,200) or 14 nights Lanserhof Cure Advanced €6,476 (£5,500 or $7,000) plus accommodation

(8) Clinique La Prairie. Montreux, Switzerland

We visited Montreux in Switzerland (Hotel Fairmont Le Montreux Palace) a number of years ago, which then put Clinique La Prairie onto my list. Undoubtedly the most expensive wellness resort in the list, but it does look amazing. The programmes are Revitalisation (or Revitalisation Premium), Detox, or Healthy Weight ranging from five to fourteen days plus there are  Aesthetics, Epi/Genetics and Medical options too. The four pillars of the Clinique La Prairie philosophy are medical insight and care, nutrition, movement, and wellbeing.

One difference here is that the prices do fully include accommodation, full board and a limousine transfer. The website again is very clear showing the difference in programmes, what’s included and you’re able to download brochures upon registering. There are of course different accommodation options, which would be an upgrade cost.

Fast Facts for Clinque La Prairie

Address - Rue du Lac 142, 1815 Clarens-Montreux, Switzerland
Website - https://cliniquelaprairie.com/clp/index.php
Contact - reservation@laprairie.ch
Instagram - @cliniquelaprairie
Nearest airport - Geneva (GVA) 90km
Opened - 1931
Number of rooms / suites - 50
Programmes - Revitalisation (or Revitalisation Premium), Detox, or Healthy Weight (ranging 5-14 days) plus Aesthetics, Epi/Genetics and Medical options
Indicative Cost - e.g. Revitalisation 7 days (6 nights) from CHF 29,200 (£26,200; $33,200; €30,500) including accommodation, full board and limousine transfer

(9) ATMOSPHERE by Krallerhof, Austria

Hotel Krallerhof in Leogang in the Salzburger Land, is one of the most renowned hotels in the heart of the Austrian Alps. This is more like Bürgenstock, which is a five star luxury hotel with an incredible spa where you can book treatments and therapies, as opposed to a dedicated wellness resort. Again, like Bürgenstock, it looks an amazing place and definitely somewhere I would like to visit.  

ATMOSPHERE is a new full-service spa which includes an alpine Zen garden and an extraordinary water staircase, Infinity 50 which is a 50-metre long pool which is seamlessly integrated into the lake, sun deck and circular walk, cold-dipping pool, saunas, the blue grotto, whirlpool, yoga room, and a café. ATMOSPHERE by Krallerhof is an adults only area from the age of 15 years. In the designated family area at the natural bathing lake, younger guests are also welcomed.

Fast Facts for Hotel Krallerhof

Address - Rain 6, 5771 Leogang, Austria
Website - https://www.krallerhof.com/en/
Contact - office@krallerhof.com
Instagram - @krallerhof
Nearest airport - Salzburg (SZG) 69km, Innsbruck (INN) 126km or Munich (MUC) 172km
Opened - 1956 original hotel (state of the art ATMOSPHERE was added 2023)
Number of rooms / suites - 30
Programmes - Various water therapies, saunas and heat treatments, 17 treatment rooms for beauty and body treatments, massage and Ayurveda
Indicative Cost - Like Bürgenstock, hotel accommodation plus treatments.

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Final thoughts on these top destination spa and wellness resorts

I’d love to hear what you think of this selection - have you been to any of them, or are there others that you think I should look at too. My original intention had been to post a collection of 19, but I’ve decided to post the first 9 then I will follow up with a second part for the remainder.

Please comment below to share your thoughts and opinions.

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Whether you’re new to wellness travel or looking to return to a favourite retreat, I’d love to help you find the perfect destination for your next journey to recharge, reset and renew.

Spa treatments or therapies, alternate or otherwise, along with a focus on diet, fitness and wellbeing has always been a big interest for me, and I’ve loved visiting some of the world’s best hotel spas as part of a vacation. Other than a few trips to Champneys in the UK, I haven’t really ventured on any spa specific journeys as ‘Mrs’ The Private Traveller isn’t overly a spa fan, albeit he will have the (very occasional) treatment. As well as loving the planning of a trip, and all the associated research, I love the booking process and writing about this afterwards. For any trip I will generally publish a Travel Itinerary blog, a Hotel Review, a Spa Review and then sometimes, depending on location, a Travel Diaries series featuring (say) the best things to do, see and where to eat like 72 Hours in XXXX.

I’m looking to make more trips to dedicated spa locations, so rather than shoehorn writing about these trips in advance into my existing portfolio, I’ve created a new series of Wellness Journeys, and this is my inaugural post, to somewhere I’ve wanted to visit for some time, the Bürgenstock Resort on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland. Here I will write all about the hotel I’ve chosen (there are two options at Bürgenstock), how I plan to get these, what I plan to do when there, where to eat etc.

The full detailed itinerary for the trip is below. All photos credit @burgenstockresort and thanks to The Dovetail Agency for facilitating.

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Getting to Bürgenstock Resort Switzerland

I booked direct flights from Edinburgh to Zurich with Swissair, albeit the flights are being operated by Edelweiss Air. There was one direct flight each way every day, with a choice of other connections too. Economy and business class were offered, and it was really easy to get my flights booked. Not only that, once booked it was easy to select seats in the front row, where although a 3-3 configuration the middle seats are blocked in each of the business class rows. Although Swissair don’t have a dedicated lounge at Edinburgh airport, use of the Aspire lounge is an option. Isn’t my favourite though by any means.

Although on my return to the airport, I’ve booked a car direct from the resort to take me back to the airport, I wanted to try out the full Bürgenstock arrival experience with the funicular, so thought the best option was to get a train direct from Zurich airport to Lucerne, and from there the hotel catamaran across the lake to then take the final step on my journey, the famous Bürgenstock funicular. Not quite planes, trains and automobiles; but this time plane, train, catamaran and funicular.

Fast Facts for the Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland (The Contemporary)

Address - Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne, CH-6363 Obbürgen, Switzerland
Website - https://burgenstockresort.com/en
TripAdvisor ranking - #1/3 (Obbuergen)
Contact - information@burgenstockresort.com
Nearest airport - Zurich International (ZRH) 84 km or 52 miles (about a 90 min drive)
Opened - 1873 (of the original Grand Hotel) 
Number of rooms / suites - 211 total (135 rooms, 76 suites) 
Number of floors - 7
Bars -2 (Lakeview Bar & Cigar Lounge; Verbena Bar Waldhotel)
Restaurants - 8
Wellbeing - 2 full-service spas (Alpine, Walhotel plus private Alpine spa suites), golf, wellness therapies and fitness classes, yoga, hair salon, tennis, ice rink
Visiting - August 2023

Hotel Accommodation: Choice of two hotels and styles

When you have a resort as big as this with multiple choices, it can be hard to home in on what to book. First is your choice of either the Bürgenstock Hotel or the Waldhotel, then even within the Bürgenstock is a choice of either the Contemporary or Heritage wing.

Facilities & Services at Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland

As I mentioned above, you have the choice of two hotels (only the Bürgenstock itself is part of the Leading Hotels of the World chain), the Waldhotel doesn’t seem to be rated as highly but then does have the more ‘medical’ spa. All facilities and services are available throughout the resort, whether you’re staying in either hotel, or in the Bürgenstock Residences.

I’ve broken down the key facilities and services and shared my thoughts on them below:

Rooms/suites

I opted to book through Leading Hotels of the World, with all the extra benefits that can bring like a free upgrade subject to availability, complimentary breakfast and wifi etc. and I also realised early on that the Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa (probably why it’s part of LHW) was the better rated property. There was the choice of the Contemporary or Heritage wing, I went for the Contemporary. In terms of choice of rooms or suites, there was everything from entry-level Deluxe rooms to Lake View Bay Suites, Premium Suites to Panorama, Penthouse and Royal Suites too. There was a simpler choice in the Heritage part of the hotel and also the Waldhotel which is facing in the other direction.

Restaurant & Bars

There is a huge choice of restaurants and bars across the resort, with each hotel having their own which again are available to all residents, and a shuttle service to take you between them, albeit I don’t think it’s a big distance. With staying for 3 nights, I’ve already booked three of the eight restaurants (Verbena, Parisa & Spices), which was so easy to do online myself.

Design & Architecture

There is obviously so much history here, as you will see below in some of their vintage photos. Spread across 60 hectares is a vast resort high up in the Swiss mountains overlooking the majestic scenery of Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the Swiss Alps. There is a whole mix of different designs and styles, with contemporary meeting heritage, so a location I’ve very much looking forward to visiting and exploring more.

Treatments & Therapies at the Spas (Alpine & Waldhotel)

Booking through Leading Hotels of the World, there were a number of package options. I opted for the Regeneration Retreat which includes the choice of either an IceLab or Vital Dome Experience at the Waldhotel Spa, and then a choice of either a facial by Dr. Barbara Sturm or 111SKIN, or a KOS full body massage. I went initially for the IceLab, though as much as I’ve been looking forward to trying this cryotherapy experience somewhere for such a long time, they advised that unfortunately it had a fault and I would need to change to the Vital Dome Experience instead.

I’ve broken down the key facilities and services and shared my opinion on them below:

Cryotherapy IceLab

This was something I was really looking forward to, but apparently isn’t going to be available during my stay. As I understood this, it a cryotherapy chamber where you would remain for (I think only) 3 minutes at sub-zero temperatures. Anywhere I have seen this before, but never tried, you normally wear some sort of hat, gloves and booties to protect your extremeities and experience the chamber to lower your body temperature. This is meant to boost your metabolism and give a new radiance to your skin. If I’m not lucky enough to experience this at Bürgenstock it is something that I will definitely try elsewhere.

Vital Dome Experience “Japanese Sauna”

I’ve had a treatment like this before, I think, at Cartesiano 360 in Puebla Mexico, where it uses infra-red technology to benefit the body. They told me this has similar benefits like to improve circulation and releases muscular tensions. The machines there were Gharieni and one was the iDome which its infra-red heat so it was like a body sauna lying down.

AMRA Meteorite Men’s Treatment

AMRA Skincare isn’t a brand I’ve heard of before, but understand them to be a British company focussing at the luxury end of the market, combining some of the world’s most precious actives like Pearl, Caviar, Gold, Diamond and Platinum in either facials or body treatments. I’ve opted for the 120 minute Meteorite Body Ritual.

Dr. Barbra Sturm Men’s Facial

Being an avid fan of Environ products from South Africa, I normally go for Environ facials only. However, I do like trying other things and Dr. Barbara Sturm has come onto my radar in a few spa locations, but this will be first time I’ve experienced one.

KOS Paris Full Body Invigorating Massage

I always like to incorporate a fully body massage and always go for the longest treatment option possible. This has stretching movements to release stress and tension, ideal for revitalising the body and mind with eucalyptus, citrus-verbena or island flowers. KOS Paris isn’t a brand I’ve used before, but I do always like to experience new treatments and new product ranges, so looking forward to this 90 minute treatment.

Dining at the Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland

Other than an initial overwhelming disappointment at the initial room allocated, then the way an alternative was handled, service throughout the rest of the stay was phenomenal. The facilities of the resort were amazing, absolutely everything you could need or want on your doorstep in such spectacular surroundings.

I’ve broken down the key facilities and services and shared my opinion on them below:

Spices Kitchen & Terrace

One of the three restaurants I’ve booked during my stay, this Asian cuisines also brings authentic flavours of Japan, China, Thailand and India. One of the highlights here is the spectacular view, on the overhanging platform within the Bürgenstock Hotel.

Oak Grill & Pool Patio

Not one that I have booked, but the Oak Grill restaurant celebrates ‘Farm to Table from Nose to Grill’. This is part of the Alpine Spa at the Bürgenstock Hotel, where from the terrace you can get a great view of the outside Hollywood pool and the Swiss mountains as a backdrop.

Brasserie Ritzcoffier

Here contemporary French cuisine takes centre stage, with again those majestic Lake Lucerne views from panoramic windows.

Parisa Persian Cuisine

This menu particularly appealed, as does the views (yet again). Apparently this restaurant format has its roots in Qatar, with three similar restaurants there already, but this one is located next to the Bürgenstock Heritage with lake and mountain views.

Verbena Restaurant & Bar

Booked for my first night at the resort, as I have treatments already scheduled for the Waldhotel Spa. The focus here is on ‘Eat Well’ Mediterranean food, but equally there are lots of tempting dishes pasta, risotto and gourmet pizzas, not to mention a full cheese and dessert menu.

Lakeview Bar & Cigar Lounge

Although not in the cantilevered section out from the building, this is another area with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows to take advantage of the Lake Lucerne views. Open all day for drinks, all-day dining or afternoon tea or their Signature Cocktails, this is located near the reception of the Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa. I won’t be popping in for a cigar, but if there is a no smoking section I think a nice G&T would be called for here. Whenever I travel, as much as I like my usual favourites of Tanqueray, Aviation or Monkey 47 gins, I do also like to try local alternatives. I see they have The Seventh Sense Petit Genevrier Dry Gin, a Swiss classic gin, as well as some flavours under ‘New Age’.

Osteria Alpina Terazza

This restaurant is located directly on the golf course, with views of the Swiss Alps and the surrounding countryside. This restaurant has history when it was a favourite of two celebrity former residents, Sophia Lauren and Audrey Hepburn.

Taverne 1879

Rustic charm where you can expect hearty food served from this outdoors (so weather permitting) terrace - named after the restaurant’s initial opening year.

Activities & Experiences at Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland

Other than an initial overwhelming disappointment at the initial room allocated, then the way an alternative was handled, service throughout the rest of the stay was phenomenal. The facilities of the resort were amazing, absolutely everything you could need or want on your doorstep in such spectacular surroundings.

I’ve broken down the key facilities and services and shared my opinion on them below:

Bürgenstock Funicular

Since the hotel opened in 1873 it has had a funicular to get you up from the lakeside. This has obviously been replaced over time, but I always think there is something quite magical about cable cars and funiculars in particular, especially when they are private to a hotel or house.

Bürgenstock Catamaran

In order to get to and from Lucerne, the hotel has its own private catamaran. This operates throughout the day and twice every hour, linking into the funicular to take you up to the resort itself.

Bürgenstock Cinema

I believe there is an in-hotel private cinema, where films are shown on some nights of the week. I’ll check out what’s being shown, as always think it’s a great concept when a hotel has its own cinema.

Hammetschwand Lift

The Hammetschwand Lift is apparently the highest outdoor lift in Europe. It’s only open part of the year, but the views look stunning from the top, and definitely an experience taking such a panoramic lift.

Visiting nearby Lucerne

Although I take the train from Zurich to Lucerne, I plan on just passing through and catch the next available hotel catamaran across the lake. I’ll definitely go back down and have a look around this city.

Other Activities

There are lots of walks, hikes, golf, cycling, as well as the myriad of fitness or mindfulness classes.

Actual Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1   Fly direct to Zurich (ZRH) with Swissair (actually operated by Edelweiss Air)

• Not too early a start from Edinburgh, with this scheduled 2hr 15min journey.

• Business class was available, with 5 rows at the front of this Airbus A320 in a 2:2 configuration, albeit the aircraft is all standard 3:3 with the middle seats blocked in Business.

• On arrival in Zurich, I’ve got a Swiss Train booked direct from the airport to Lucerne Station, a journey that’s meant to take only 1hr 10mins.

• At Lucerne, the hotel has a shuttle boat (the Burgenstock Catamaran: Kehrsiten-Burgenstock) to take you across the lake (twice every hour).

• Those boat arrivals then tie in with the hotel’s funicular which goes straight up into the Burgenstock Hotel .

• Check in for 3 nights at the Bürgenstock Contemporary Hotel.

• First treatment booked was meant to be the IceLab cryotherapy at the Waldhotel, but now the Japanese Sauna.

• Dinner booked Verbena Restaurant & Bar.

• Day 2   Bürgenstock Resort

• Treatments booked include a facial and hammam experience.

• Dinner booked Parisa - Persian Cuisine.

• Day 3   Bürgenstock Resort

• I do want to go back down on the funicular and across the lake again back to Lucerne, so plan to do this one morning of my stay.

• Treatments booked include a full body massage and I’ll try out all the various Alpine spa experiences again.

• I also want to experience the Hammetschwand Lift - if I don’t do it later today, it will definitely be something I do on my last morning.

• Dinner booked Spices Kitchen & Terrace.

• Day 4  Travel back from the Bürgenstock Resort

• If I haven’t visited the

• There’s another direct flight with Swissair to Edinburgh, but actually operated by Edelweiss Air taking just the same 2hr 15mins.

• Rather than doing planes, trains, catamaran and funicular as I did when getting to the resort, this times it’s just automobile and plane. I have a BlackLane limo transfer booked from the hotel at lunchtime, which should get me back to Zurich airport in about

Final Thoughts

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