Paris is renowned for its fashion, food, and fine wine, but did you know it’s also a haven for luxurious spas? Whether you’re looking for a soothing massage, a revitalizing body scrub, or a youth-enhancing facial, the French capital offers a wide array of indulgent experiences for your mind and body.
The history of spas in France is as rich as the city itself. The word “spa” originates from the Latin phrase “sanitus per aqua,” meaning “health through water.” In the 19th century, hydrotherapy became popular in France, inspired by the ancient Roman baths. These treatments, primarily used to prevent or treat ailments like rheumatism, paved the way for the sophisticated spa experiences we know today.
Here’s a look at some of the most luxurious spas in Paris and its surrounding areas:
A Parisian Playground for the Senses
The Ritz Paris is an icon of luxury and a haven for discerning travelers. Its newly revamped Ritz Club & Spa transports you into the world of Art Deco glamour. Imagine yourself swimming in the mosaic-covered pool while listening to music, followed by a heat-inducing sauna or hammam. The signature massages, named after flowers, are designed to alleviate tension from head to toe. Biologique Recherche facials will leave your skin glowing and re-energized. And, for the ultimate Parisian experience, get your hair styled at David Mallet’s in-house salon before indulging in afternoon tea at Salon Proust.
The Shangri-La Paris boasts a spa that would have delighted its former resident, Prince Roland Bonaparte. Chi, The Spa, offers a tranquil escape, complete with a 17-meter swimming pool overlooking a verdant terrace. Immerse yourself in a holistic tension-releasing treatment that blends CBD and massage, leaving you in a state of blissful zen.
Kupala is Paris’ first Banya spa, a unique experience inspired by Slavic wellbeing rituals. Immerse yourself in the warm wooden atmosphere created by Maison Alchemy, and let the soothing scents of meadow and mountain herbs envelop you. The ritual involves a body sweeping with oak, birch, or eucalyptus branches, followed by a freshwater bath, promoting deep muscle relaxation, improved breathing, and a strengthened immune system. For an even deeper sense of tranquility, indulge in a gentle honey scrub, a customized facial treatment, or a full-body massage.
Luxury Meets Skincare Expertise
The Dior Spa Plaza Athénée embodies the essence of Parisian luxury. Experience haute-couture skincare with Dior’s signature treatments. Choose from the Dior D-Tox Therapy, Dior D-Stress Therapy, Dior D-Vibe Therapy, or Dior D-Fit Therapy, and emerge with a radiant glow. The Dior Light Suite, a cabin designed to synchronize circadian rhythms, helps combat jet lag and sleep issues.
Spa Charme d’Orient offers a glimpse into the ancient rituals and customs of the Middle East. The hammam, adorned with stones and tiles, is filled with the soothing scent of orange blossom. The sacred three- or four-hour ritual includes a body scrub using black soap, a skin exfoliation with rhassoul clay, and a gentle head massage. The experience concludes with an argan oil body massage and a refreshing cup of mint tea.
Le Spa at the iconic Four Seasons George V is a haven for skincare enthusiasts. Skincare expert Olivier Claire delivers impeccable facial and massage treatments, utilizing his signature products composed of locally-sourced plants. For an invigorating experience, try the Kobido facial massage, a Japanese ancestral tradition that tones the face and adds radiance.
Royal Relaxation
The Waldorf Astoria Versailles is a regal escape, and its Guerlain Spa lives up to the royal theme. Every treatment is tailor-made to your needs, with expert facialists and masseuses. The Radiance Facial Treatment uses products from the historic Maison Guerlain, leaving your skin glowing. For a detoxifying experience, the Imperial Relaxing Massage is the perfect choice.
Spa Valmont at the Auberge du Jeu de Paume in Chantilly offers a unique blend of luxury and tranquility. Indulge in the Majestic Treatment, a facial and neck massage using three massage protocols and four masks exclusive to Valmont. The Le Cavalier ritual starts with a detoxifying sauna overlooking the Moroccan-style swimming pool and ends with complete inner calm. Maison Caulières natural oil treatments are also available.
From the traditional hammam to the latest skincare innovations, Paris offers a world of spa experiences to suit every taste and need. So, indulge yourself, and discover the ultimate Parisian pampering.
