Fantastic Four: Small spas to soak in

Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa

Where: Wiltshire, England

Why: This award-winning spa is tucked into the courtyard of a picturesque manor house hotel, where ivy climbs honeyed stone walls. You'll find an extensive array of thermal rooms, including a Chamomile Steam Grotto and hydrotherapy pool which overlooks the gardens and woodlands. As well as luxurious La Prairie treatments utilising gold and caviar extracts, there are numerous packages for couples.

How: Room rates start at £315/€402. Fly to Bristol with Ryanair (ryanair.com).

See: whatleymanor.com

Font Santa Hotel

Where: Mallorca, Spain

Why: Blessed with a location near the unique beach of Es Salobrar, the Font Santa Hotel is the only naturally thermal spa in the Balearic Islands. What does this mean for you? Aside from the cracking views, you're also privy to the therapeutic powers of the mineral rich waters, which you'll soak up from the range of thermal baths, pool and Jacuzzi. There are only 25 rooms on site, all with a chic, minimalist feel.

How: Room rates start at €175, including breakfast. You can fly to Mallorca with Ryanair (ryanair.com) from March to October.

See: fontsantahotel.com

Font Santa Hotel, Majorca

Aquapetra Resort & Spa

Where: Campania, Italy

Why: At this delectable Italian spa, the surroundings are as relaxing as the therapies. Olive groves enfold the beautifully restored stone buildings, and the spa itself is located in an ancient barn. Inside, you'll find a Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath, and there's both an indoor and outdoor pool. Treatments are complimented by rare essential oils and therapeutic muds.

How: Double rooms start at €160 with Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Fly to Naples with Aer Lingus (aerlingus.com).

See: slh.com

The Purist Villas & Spa

Where: Ubud, Bali

Why: There are only seven villas at this luscious Balinese resort, positioned next to one of Ubud's holy rivers and surrounded with bamboo and palms. Each of the villas are unique, finished with Indonesian touches and antique wooden floorboards. Thick jungle surrounds the infinity pool, and there's a yoga pavilion and Ayurvedic treatments on offer.

How: Rates start at €303 with Mr & Mrs Smith. Fly to Denpasar with Etihad (etihad.com), via Abu Dhabi and Kuala Lumpur.

See: mrandmrssmith.com

Book the best value packages at travel.independent.ie.

NB: All rates subject to change.

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