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Welcome to Vogue’s first-ever spa guide—a compendium of the 100 best spas worldwide, pulling from the expertise of our global editors. There is a lot out there in the world of wellness, and we are here to sort the cryo from the cold plunge, the infrared light treatment from the IV infusion. Or if your path is a more holistic one—there’s something for you here as well.
Why go here?
The Scarlet is an adult-only hotel and eco spa on the west coast of the UK, which takes full advantage of the rugged Atlantic coastline. If you’re looking for a peaceful break, this is the place to go.
What’s the vibe?
Laid-back and cool, the spa overlooks the ocean on the cliff tops of the Cornish coast, giving it the unique feeling of being in the middle of nature. In tented, lantern-lit treatment rooms, each treatment ends with a moment of stillness in a suspended cocoon pod for a truly cosseting effect. Hotel guests can also take advantage of the complimentary wellness classes (like Tai Chi in the sea-view studio) and book in with one of the resident expert therapists or practitioners.
The history?
The hotel and spa have been designed to make the most of the location, with floor-to-ceiling windows to show off the Cornish beach. Leaning into the beachy, surf culture of the town of Mawgan Porth, the walls are decorated with work from local artists (all for sale) and natural beach art made from driftwood.
What should you try?
Specializing in bespoke wellness, the latest offering is an Ayurvedic “journey” inspired by the Cornish coast and the natural landscape. They offer a number of different package that include ancient practices of relaxation and healing. The four-night package includes a four-hour program that incorporates a tension-releasing bathing treatment and a massage in one of the tented treatment rooms, where the sound of Atlantic waves is the soundtrack.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Labeled as an eco-sanctuary, sustainability is at the root of the Scarlet. They ask that guests bring their own footwear to minimize single-use slippers, and there is no air-conditioning on site (they rely on the Atlantic breeze for cooling). A pool filtered with algae and reeds provides a natural cleanse, and a roof linked with sea thrift gives local insects a habitat of native plants. Construction of the spa incorporated reclaimed materials from the surrounding area, and all other materials can be easily recycled. Biomass boilers, a solar-heated pool, and renewable energy electricity suppliers are all part of the considered eco choices here.
What else do we need to know?
If you sign up for one of the new Ayurvedic journeys, you can choose to experience it solo or synchronized with a friend or partner.
Who can go?
This is a destination open to all. You can book for a day or half-day experience, and if you’re staying at the Scarlet, you can book specific spa breaks or access it as a staying guest.
Booking details for The Scarlet Hotel
Address: Tredragon Rd, Mawgan Porth, Newquay TR8 4DQ, United Kingdom