Spa treatments: All that sparkles
We've located some spas that are real gems — so much so, they even use precious stones and metals in their treatments
Rose quartz & amethyst: Ulusaba, South Africa
Creature comforts take on a whole new meaning at Sir Richard Branson's reserve, set in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The two Aroma Boma spas have views of the unspoilt African bushveld and offer treatments such as the Shaman's Healing Journey, a warm rose quartz and amethyst crystal massage that's thought to release pent up energy.
Details: Treatment from ZAR1,500 (£96); rooms from £550 per person per night. Book with www.safari.co.uk
Sapphires: Four Seasons Toronto, Canada
This huge urban spa has 17 treatment rooms, 70 staff and spans a huge 30,000sq ft. Its Holistic Sapphire Gemstone Facial incorporates rose quartz, platinum, copper and nano-gold as well as sapphires, rubies, diamonds and pearls, used alongside Eastern healing techniques to promote lymphatic drainage, relaxation, balance and rejuvenation.
Details: The 90-minute treatment costs C$250 (£157); rooms from C$495 (£310) per night.
Gold: Hotel Monte Mulini, Croatia
It's said that Cleopatra slept in a gold mask every night, but if you really want the royal treatment, try having the precious metal smothered all over your body. The Ceremony of Gold Ritual includes a massage with oil made from 22-carat gold and essential plant oils, and a facial using tiny gold particles to reflect the light and reduce wrinkles.
Details: The 160-minute treatment costs £177; double rooms from £220, including breakfast and VAT.
Jade: Tschuggen Grand Hotel, Switzerland
Huge glass sail roofs channel light into its impressive underground spa, which spans four floors with an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness area and medical spa. If you're still finding it hard to relax, try the Tranquillity ritual, which uses jade stones to help you take time out and unwind.
Details: The 60-minute treatment costs CHF160 (£111); rooms from CHF202.50 (£141) per person, per night.
Diamonds: SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain
If this spa's macrobiotic diet, pilates, yoga and tai chi classes don't make you glow, try the diamond microdermabrasion facial, which uses a peel, diamond scrub and serum to polish your skin, eliminate dead cells and target blackheads and enlarged pores.
Details: The 45-minute facial costs €365 (£312); suites from €230 (£197) per night, based on two sharing.
Published in the National Geographic Traveller – Luxury 2013 special issue
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