Embrace the evolution of wellness travel: top spa destinations for 2026

As we move towards 2026, the landscape of wellness travel is set to undergo a profound transformation.

Gone are the days when wellness was merely an add-on; the future embraces a holistic integration of health-focused experiences infused with science and personalisation.

Wellness travel is becoming a holistic approach to rejuvenation.

Expect a rise in concepts like "glowcations" for beauty and "cool-cations" for climate escapes, alongside data-driven retreats and community-focused healing spaces such as saunas and bathhouses.

This shift indicates that wellness is no longer an add-on but a core component of the travel experience.

Recently, spa booking site SpaSeekers.com released its annual Spa Trends Report for 2026, revealing the countries and cities that spa lovers will flock to for a relaxing break.

By analysing over 40 million spa-related Google searches made during 2025, SpaSeekers has identified top destinations for wellness travel. 

Here are the prime spots for those seeking a truly chilled vacation. 

A unique blend of adventure and relaxation: Tanzania 

Tanzania is rapidly becoming a top spa destination, uniquely combining world-class safari experiences with tranquil island getaways in Zanzibar.

This dual appeal offers wilderness wellness at luxury safari lodges alongside tropical rejuvenation with spice-infused treatments on stunning beaches.

It’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking both adventure and deep relaxation in culturally rich settings.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Unique settings: Spas are integrated into luxury safari camps in places like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, providing treatments with views of wildlife and the Great Migration.
• Maasai-inspired treatments: Experience rejuvenating therapies that incorporate local traditions and ingredients unique to the African bush.
• Seamless luxury: Enjoy post-safari relaxation with high-end amenities and personalised service right in the heart of the wilderness.
• Barefoot luxury: White-sand beaches and turquoise waters provide the perfect backdrop for serene spa days in Zanzibar.
• Spice Island aromatherapy: Spas utilise the island's rich spice heritage (cloves, cinnamon, vanilla) in treatments for a sensory escape.
• Cultural immersion: Spa experiences blend Swahili, Arabic, and Indian influences, reflected in design, decor, and traditional therapies.

Tranquillity and authentic healing: Rwanda 

Rwanda is emerging as a top spa destination due to its stunning natural tranquillity and luxurious lodges that integrate wellness with nature.

The country offers unique cultural experiences and a focus on restorative, authentic African healing, providing everything from volcano-view yoga to traditional botanical treatments for deep relaxation after gorilla treks or safaris.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Breathtaking natural settings: The "Land of a Thousand Hills" offers serene landscapes -misty volcanoes, lush forests, and peaceful shores of Lake Kivu - creating an ideal backdrop for wellness.
• Integrated luxury wellness: High-end lodges offer open-air spas, yoga pavilions, and infinity pools, blending world-class treatments with immersive nature.
• Post-adventure relaxation: Many lodges provide deeply relaxing massages using local botanicals to soothe tired muscles after activities like gorilla trekking.

Ancient Healing Meets Modern Luxury: Greece

Greece is a top spa destination, renowned for its deep historical roots in healing waters and abundant natural thermal springs.

The country blends ancient wellness philosophies with modern, luxurious facilities for holistic rejuvenation.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Ancient healing traditions: Greeks have recognised the curative power of thermal springs, sea salt, and herbs for millennia, with figures like Hippocrates documenting water's benefits.
• Natural resources: Over 850 locations boast therapeutic thermal and mineral springs, plus iodine-rich seawater for thalassotherapy.
• Holistic approach: Spas often combine classical Greek principles with modern science, using local elements like olive oil for signature treatments.

A legacy of wellness: France

France is celebrated for its long history of water-based healing, with unique mineral-rich springs and modern, high-quality facilities.

The integration of healthcare with wellness tourism makes it a standout destination.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Roman heritage: The tradition of thermalism dates back to Roman times in France, where mineral-rich spring water was used for health.
• Medical integration: French doctors can prescribe three-week thermal spa stays for chronic ailments, with treatments sometimes covered by social security.

A journey of inner peace: Bhutan

Bhutan offers a unique wellness journey, blending ancient healing traditions with pristine Himalayan nature.

Authentic experiences like medicinal hot stone baths and Ku Nye massage, alongside mindfulness practices, provide deep rejuvenation beyond typical luxury spa treatments.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Traditional hot stone baths: Heated river stones infused with herbs relieve muscle pain.
• Holistic approach: Treatments focus on revitalising the senses and integrating spiritual, mental, and physical health.

A cultural spa experience: The Philippines

The Philippines is a go-to spa destination, offering a unique blend of traditional healing and luxurious modern retreats.

Its stunning natural environments, such as rainforests and beaches, provide a serene backdrop for holistic wellness.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Authentic Filipino traditions: Hilot, a traditional massage using intuitive touch and local herbs, is a highlight.
• Nature-based wellness: Spas nestled in lush rainforests or on pristine beaches offer natural serenity for mental and physical healing.

Affordable wellness: Romania

Romania boasts vast reserves of mineral and thermal waters, making it a top choice for health and wellness tourism.

The country offers a unique combination of quality, history, and affordability.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Abundant natural resources: Romania has a wealth of mineral springs and therapeutic lakes.
• Affordability: Spa experiences are often significantly cheaper than in Western Europe, making luxury wellness accessible.

A fusion of tradition and modern luxury: China

China is becoming a prominent spa destination, offering a rich blend of traditional Eastern wellness practices and modern luxury facilities.

With its deep roots in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and abundant natural hot springs, China is attracting wellness tourists seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Rich tradition and TCM integration: Modern spas incorporate traditional wellness concepts, acupuncture, and herbal remedies for deep relaxation and stress relief.
• Abundant natural hot springs: Numerous natural hot spring resorts provide therapeutic mineral waters for bathing and relaxation.
• Unique 24-hour spa culture: Affordable, all-inclusive spa complexes offer unlimited food, entertainment, and wellness treatments, making them immersive destinations.

A diverse wellness experience: Vietnam 

Vietnam is rapidly gaining recognition as a top spa destination, thanks to its unique blend of ancient healing traditions and modern luxury.

With stunning natural backdrops like beaches and mountains, Vietnam offers premium treatments at great value.

Why it comes highly recommended:

• Authentic traditions: Incorporates local practices like herbal baths and traditional Vietnamese massages using local ingredients.
• Modern luxury and value: Offers world-class facilities and diverse treatments at significantly lower costs than many Western countries.
• Stunning scenery: Features diverse landscapes, enhancing relaxation and wellness experiences.