The Best Hotel For Relaxing

Covid transmission is possible in communal bathhouses, as with any other indoor gathering space, but whether higher humidity changes the risk profile is uncertain. “No specific research with Covid-19 has determined whether this makes a significant difference when compared with other environments,” Masaka says.

Both Dyson and Minas say they have extensive hygiene protocols. As for finicky wart-fearing folk like me, we can either wear our own footwear (Soak) or slip on a provided pair of slides (Sense of Self). “It’s just to keep everyone safe,” Minas says, adding that changing shoes is also “part of the ritual”.

Minas cautions that high temperatures make bathhouses unsuitable for pregnant people, but most others can partake. As for the reason to do so, she says: “Even if it gets you to stop thinking for a few moments … that’s a win.”

This article was amended on 25 April 2022. An earlier version said a study that found tub bathing has preventative effects against cardiovascular disease was published in 2020 in the BMJ. It was published in a different journal (Link Journal), Heart..

Naturhotel Chesa Valisa, Hirschegg, Austria

The first certified bio-organic hotel in the Vorarlberg region, this 500-year-old building is now home to a soothing mountain retreat, combining a programme of outdoor hikes, indoor yoga and spa treatments with plenty of cosy spaces for relaxing with a book or just drinking in the glorious views. The nightly rate includes all of the above, along with free use of the local bus network, making it easy to get out and explore the local countryside. The restaurant offers excellent vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside the best organic local produce.

Tauern Spa, Kaprun, Austria

A destination in its own right, the Tauern offers a sprawling 20,000 sq metres of spa facilities, including 12 indoor and outdoor pools, a huge thermal complex with 13 saunas and the Kidstein children’s spa, with its own pools, climbing wall and adventure grotto. Treatments range from Thai and Swedish massages to body peels, wraps and organic Thalgo therapies, with the opportunity to try snowshoe hiking in the surrounding mountains. In the evening, guests can choose from traditional Austrian dishes in the Lichtblick restaurant or a 10-course tasting menu in Finessen.

Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa, Dolomites, Italy

Gardena Grödnerhof is a classic Tirolean-style family-run hotel in the pretty town of Ortesei. Summer or winter, it’s location is spectacular, just moments away from the cable car that runs up to the Alpe di Siusi, the largest Alpine plateau in Europe. After a day’s skiing or hiking, it’s time to relax in the hotel’s marvellous new spa. It’s hung with chandeliers and boasts numerous steam rooms, saunas, a hamman and pools with mountain views. The hay bath and deep tissue massage are must-tries. There’s also yoga and a well-equipped gym.