The ultimate list of spas in the stars

By MiNDFOOD

The ultimate list of spas in the stars
Bespoke treatments, custom formulas and dreamy locations come together to up the luxe quotient in the Queenstown region.

The Spa at Millbrook

There’s something cathartic about taking to Queenstown’s lake-fringed roads, and the 20-minute drive to Millbrook Resort sets the scene for what’s to come.

our destination, it’s easy to see why The Spa at Millbrook has acquired impressive accolades over the years – the spa won the 2016 Luxury Spa Hotel award and was named New Zealand’s Best Resort Spa at the World Luxury Spa Awards 2016. Nestled away in a tranquil corner of the resort’s sprawling 200-or-so hectares, the award-winning spa boasts a handful of treatment rooms and a spa menu that features everything from luxury manicures to indulgent pampering packages. There’s even a menu that caters for men – think full body massages. The Spa at Millbrook also offers a complimentary shuttle service from Queenstown and Arrowtown.

Try: With an extensive treatment menu, the best place to start is the Signature massage ($140 for 60 minutes). Your therapist will talk you through the treatment which will be customised to meet your concerns, and a number of extras can be added onto the massage. The pampering experience doesn’t finish when your massage concludes: a fruit platter and a glass of champagne is the perfect ending. The Spa at Millbrook, Malaghans Rd, Arrowtown, (03) 441 7017, Millbrook.co.nz.

Onsen Hot Pools

Whether you want to end an action-packed day or pampering session the perfect way, no Queenstown getaway is complete without a soak in one of Onsen’s Japanese-inspired cedar hot pools. Perched above the Shotover Canyon, the pools take relaxation to the next level. Pure natural water fills and refreshes each of the hot tubs.

Try: Opt for The Onsen by Lantern Light. You’ll be surrounded by Japanese lanterns and, on a clear night, a sky full of stars. Onsen Hot Pools, 160 Arthurs Point Rd, Arthurs Point, Queenstown, ( 03 ) 442 5707, onsen.co.nz.

 

so-spa

So Spa

Sofitel’s So Spa takes a unique approach to pampering. With treatments inspired by dining menus – pick from starters, mains or desserts – you can build your personalised pampering session. Combine one of each for a serious day of relaxation and indulgence or opt for one treatment if you’re short on time. So Spa offers quality local and international products and treatments. Indulge in a Greenstone massage, which uses warmed greenstone to melt away tension, or be whisked away to Japan with a Hanakasumi massage.

Try: The Manuka Honey Facial uses an antioxidant-rich ingredient that boosts skin hydration, repairs damaged skin and will leave you with a radiant complexion. Sofitel So Spa, 8 Duke St, Queenstown, (03) 450 0045,  sofitel-queenstown.com.

 

matakauri

Matakauri

Slip into an infinity pool with a spectacular view, then indulge in a blissful spa treatment.

A seven-minute drive from Queenstown, Matakauri Spa is perched on the edge of jaw-dropping Lake Wakatipu. It features two treatment rooms designed to make unwinding an other-worldly experience. From full body massages to targeted facials, each treatment can be customised for your skin type. The only problem with Matakauri is falling head over heels in love with the place and then finding the willpower you need to depart and return to reality.

Try: We can vouch for the Matakauri facial ($185), and facial and back massage. Suitable for all skin types, the facial uses homegrown skincare from Evolu. Add on a massage – you can talk to your therapist about whether relaxation or remedial is your focus – to take the experience to the next level. Matakauri Spa, Farrycroft Row, 569 Glenorchy Rd, (03) 441

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