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Welcome to the second iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, an index of the 100 best spas in the world, built from the expertise of our global editors and trusted contributors. There is a lot to choose from in the world of wellness, and no matter how far you’re planning to travel—from a subway ride to a trans-Atlantic flight—we want to make sure it’s worth the journey. Whatever your path, let us be your guide.
Why go here?
Newly opened in London’s West End, the spa at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair is as sleek and stylish as one might expect from an urban city spa. The treatments on offer cater to the time-poor business-person and Mayfair dweller in need of a health boost. Integrating biohacking techniques—including IV infusions and binaural vibroacoustic therapy (which utilizes specific vibrations and frequencies to work on the body’s energy centers)—with relaxing methods, it’s the place to go for results-driven treatments that help recalibrate stressful lives.
What’s the vibe?
A subterranean spa that sits beneath Hanover Square, this is a calm yet contemporary space—an earthy palette of natural wood and stone, green Ming marble and mood lighting—that has been designed as an escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding Regent and Oxford streets. “We wanted to create an environment where guests can focus on their personal wellness,” explains Jamie Pagen, Mandarin Oriental’s director of spa wellness. “Whether the entry point is through personalized lifestyle programs, nutritional optimization support, or integrative therapies offering relaxing massage treatments based on the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, it’s a comprehensive approach to support physical and mental well-being.”
The history?
Since Vogue (and Condé Nast) was also previously based on Hanover Square, we were privy to the birth of Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, from the ground upwards—it is the first new-build luxury hotel in Mayfair in over a decade, but the wait was undoubtedly worth it. Inspired by the Georgian terraces on Hanover Square (the first square in Mayfair, and one of London’s most glamorous), the hotel is made from glass and steel and features a light-filled glass courtyard.
What should you try?
One of the standout treatments on offer is the—aptly named—Tranquillity of Mayfair, which typifies the spa’s approach of marrying biohacking practices with human touch, care of the aforementioned binaural vibroacoustic therapy, and a four-handed massage experience from a duo of practitioners. Beyond the excellent treatment menu, there are a multitude of experts on offer, whether nutrition, sleep, or fitness, so book in for a consultation to learn about your body’s unique diagnostics and make an aftercare plan with your chosen practitioner. Whether it’s how to practice good sleep hygiene or effective stress management techniques, you’ll feel relaxed and purposeful as you leave. Oh, and the pool and sauna are more than worthy of a dip too.
How environmentally friendly is it?
Sustainability is front of mind at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. As well as being 99% single-use-plastic-free, the hotel has a strong focus on limiting how much energy is used within the hotel; the aim is that at least 60% of all energy used is deemed efficient. They’re also working on water management and sourcing sustainable seafood to protect marine ecosystems.
What else do we need to know?
Head from the spa at the bottom of the hotel to the top, where the rooftop bar is in situ. It’s the perfect place to see panoramic views of the city.
Who can go?
Anyone is welcome to visit the spa.
Booking details for Mandarin Oriental
Address: 22 Hanover Square, London W1S 1JP, United Kingdom
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide. Read more about The Mandarin Oriental Mayfair at the Conde Nast Traveler Hot List.