With many of us having broken our New Year's resolutions by now and the trainers firmly back in the cupboard for another year, perhaps a far more relaxing way to start the year is with a spa break.
And it seems that some European travellers agree as just under a quarter are planning to take a rejuvenation trip early 2013 and a third hope to visit a spa over the course of this year, according to a TripAdvisor survey.
TripAdvisor spokesperson, Emma Shaw, said: "With January over don't beat yourself up if you've already broken your New Year's resolution.
"Instead of painful gym sessions, embrace the new you with a spa trip, where you can do as much – or as little – as you wish."
For those looking to book themselves a spa break, TripAdvisor can reveal the top 10 hotel spas in Europe according to TripAdvisor traveller ratings, with a London hotel proudly taking the number one spot.
Top 10 European Hotel Spas
1. Corinthia Hotel London — London, UK
Located a few minutes from 10 Downing Street, ESPA Life at Corinthia London offers fitness and nutrition as well as luxury spa treatments from some of the world's top professionals. Max Tomlinson offers complimentary health, the gym is managed by personal trainer to the athletic elite, Stephen Price and hairdresser to the A-list, Daniel Galvin takes care of hair. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "The spa is probably the best I've been to in London."
2. Seafield Golf & Spa Hotel — Gorey, Ireland
Less than an hour drive from Dublin, this hotel is nestled among 160 acres of wooded parklands with an 18-hole championship golf course. Oceo Spa at Seafield houses 14 treatment rooms including a couples suite. Also on offer is a thermal suite, hammam suite, rasul chamber, aromatherapy suites, monsoon showers, ice grotto, relaxation area, outdoor vitality pool and a 16 metre hydrotherapy pool. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "What a fantastic hotel and spa. The spa was a wonderful experience, well laid out, spacious rooms and the outdoor hot tub was terrific on a December night!!"
3. Grand Hotel Kronenhof — Pontresina, Switzerland
The heritage protected Grand Hotel Kronenhof is located in the centre of Pontresina, at 1,800m above sea level and just 6 miles from St. Moritz. The Kronenhof Spa offers visitors stunning views of the valley, pine forests and Roseg and Bernina glaciers. Facilities include a pool with counter current system and underwater music, a paddling pool, steam room, relaxation floating grotto and relaxation area with roaring fire. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "A first-class spa and wellness facility in a historic, quaint town… a dream."
4. Rockliffe Hall — Hurworth-on-Tees, UK
Nestled within 375 acres on the banks of the River Tees, Rockcliffe Hall is a golf and spa resort set on a restored 18th century estate. The spa at Rockliffe is 50,000 square feet and offers many treatments as well as a 20-metre pool where spa butlers offer refreshments of champagne and freshly squeezed juices. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "Words fail me to express just how sumptuous this spa is."
5. Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden — Puerto de la Cruz, Spain
Located on the Orotava Valley coastline, Hotel Botanico is situated at the foot of Tenerife´s Mount Teide. The Oriental Spa Garden at Hotel Botanico offers treatments that are inspired by Asian hospitality and facilities include a Japanese sauna and oriental laconium. As one TripAdvisor traveller commented, "The spa was spectacular and included everything I could have thought of."
There's more… read the complete article "Top 10 Spa Hotels in Europe for 2013" on the Female First website
