This is how your stay at a spa hotel becomes truly relaxing
Relax and recharge
Whether you are taking a weekend to unwind and recharge your energy or looking for a longer period of relaxation, a spa hotel allows you to do exactly that. To ensure you return to everyday life feeling truly refreshed, we have put together a few helpful tips. We show you how to prepare for your trip and make the most of your stay.
Choosing the right hotel
When planning a spa break, choosing the right hotel is essential. Look for a hotel that does not just offer wellness as an extra, but specialises in relaxation and wellbeing. The size of the spa area alone is not the deciding factor—focus instead on the overall concept and level of expertise.
First, decide whether you would prefer to spend most of your time within the hotel and its grounds, or whether the surrounding area is important to you if you are staying longer. Do you need a nearby town? Would you like to go skiing in the mountains or spend an afternoon at the beach? Or do you prefer to completely switch off from the outside world? In that case, even a nearby hotel may be perfectly sufficient.
In addition to the spa facilities, also consider whether the hotel offers classes such as yoga or Pilates, whether it caters to your dietary preferences, and what the rooms themselves provide. Perhaps a freestanding bathtub, an in-room whirlpool or even a private sauna is important to you?
Book treatments in advance
Good spa hotels are very popular. Facilities such as the gym, pool and sauna can usually be used without prior booking during opening hours. However, treatments such as massages, baths or body wraps are not always included in the price and are often limited in availability. It is therefore advisable to book these in advance.
Some hotels also offer manicures, pedicures or style consultations. In these cases, it is best to ask at the time of booking how and when you should arrange your appointment—especially if treatments are included in your package.
Packing list for a spa hotel
A stay at a spa hotel differs from a standard hotel stay. Even though there are often areas where you do not need to bring much (for example, textile-free zones), there are still a few essentials you should pack:
- Bathrobe
- Large sauna towel
- Swimwear
- Slippers, flip-flops or pool shoes
- Comfortable clothing (sportswear, tracksuit, etc.)
- Books, magazines or an e-reader
- Eye mask and earplugs
Many spa hotels provide bathrobes or slippers for guests, but it is often more comfortable to bring your own. A well-fitting sauna sarong or a cosy hooded bathrobe offers a greater sense of comfort than a one-size-fits-all robe or standard slippers that may not fit perfectly.
Also remember to pack a smarter outfit for dinner. In many hotels, evening wear is expected to be a little more elegant—your bathrobe will no longer be appropriate at this point.
Depending on the season, you may need to adjust your packing list. For summer, a sun hat for relaxing by the outdoor pool; for winter, boots, a hat and gloves for walks in the snow—simply consider what you might need.
Short break: day spa
If you do not want to travel far or do not have time for a longer spa stay, you can opt for a visit to a thermal spa or a day spa instead. This is perfect for those with limited time and for anyone who prefers not to stay overnight.