3. The underwater spa – Huvafen Fushi, Maldives

Forget counting sheep – the best way to relax is by counting tropical fish. Huvafen Fushi on North Male Atoll in the Maldives has the world’s first underwater spa, with two treatment rooms below the surface of the Indian Ocean and another six overwater rooms with glass floors. Lime Spa is an ultra cool, all-white space that juxtaposes astonishing natural beauty with innovative modern technology. There’s a fibre-optic-lit pool and relaxation area, an aroma-infused steam room, an ice room, high-tech rain showers and an over-water yoga pavilion and gym. The treatment menu includes iridology, reiki, salt scrubs and energy rituals designed specifically for this aquatic environment. Gazing out at a kaleidoscope of parrotfish, manta rays and octopuses as you are expertly pummelled by coconut-oiled hands is one of the most sensual experiences imaginable. 

4. The sapphire dust spa – Sapphire Freycinet, Tasmania

Aside from magnificent scenery and gastronomy, what’s most exciting about Saffire Freycinet, an über-luxe coastal sanctuary in Tasmania, is the Saffire Spa. The spa’s signature treatment, The Sapphire Experience, uses pure blue sapphire dust, thought to increase the skin’s luminosity and balance the chakras. After an energising body brush and mask to stimulate lymphatic flow, you’re bathed in a warm balm and wrapped in silk sheets for a scalp massage, before a full body massage and a liberal smothering in sapphire dust body crème. The spa has a whole “Jewel Collection” of treatments to choose from (some use gold, others diamonds!), which combine the energy of precious stones and the purity of local minerals to soothe and restore. Using products by renowned Australian skincare specialists LaGaia, the treatments are a world first.