EXPLORING REJUVENATION "SPA" TRAIL

Asia has long been associated with mysticism and healing - no wonder then that the continent is full of retreats. There are few, however, that stand out from the crowd.

Six Senses Hideaway, Ninh Van Bay, Vietnam

If you like your spiritual replenishment to take place in a dramatic setting, the Six Senses' Ninh Van Bay retreat is the ideal location. With the spectacular rock formations of Ninh Van Bay in the background, you can take your pick of traditional Vietnamese and Swedish treatments as well as yoga and meditation retreats, the Six Senses is the ultimate in retreat wellbeing.

Evian Spa, Shanghai, China

Giorgio Armani dubbed Shanghai the most exciting city on Earth. We don't disagree, and if you are looking for a downtown refuge from the city's urban maelstrom, head to the Evian Spa at they at the luxurious Three on the Bund. While most Chinese spas focus on Chinese treatments, Evian Spa combines these traditional techniques with more modern European ones. This is reflected in the design: subtle Chinese touches are complemented by a start European design.

Villa 32, Taipei

With only five rooms, Villa 32 is the ultimate venue for bespoke rejuvenation. Each of the rooms has its own geothermic bath, connected to the Beitou hot springs. The converted private house mixes Japanese and western styles flawlessly and the sense of peace is only matched by the level of service. In a world of faceless, brand name spas, Villa 32 takes opulent solitude to a new level.

Fujia Ginzan, Yamagata, Japan

Located three and half hours outside Tokyo, the Fujiya Ginzan combines a resolutely modern design aesthetic with traditional Japanese materials. Samushiko bamboo screens reveal hidden rooms and hot and cold plunge pools. Ginzan is renowned for its hot springs, which provide water for the five private baths and the huge top-floor pool, which affords wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. With only eight rooms, the Inn marries discreet organic luxury with a sense of tradition few Asian spas can match.

The Hidden Place, Singapore

Singapore is not a city known for its spas, which makes the Hidden Place all the more special. It's also a men-only spa, so if you are overwhelmed by the world of manicures, wraps and wellness, the spa's staff will make tailor-made packages for you. If you need a nudge in the right direction, try the THP Signature Body Deluxe III, a four-hour treatment that includes a full body massage, a foot masque and a body buff and wash.