The Gainsborough Bath Spa

You wouldn't expect it, but right in the centre of the English town of Bath, opposite the main shopping street, a huge Romanesque spa awaits those seeking relaxation. Those who stop in and soak can look forward to exclusivity: The Gainsborough Hotel, a magnificent 18th-century Georgian mansion, is the only hotel spa in Bath with access to the city's natural, underground thermal springs. The old-world charm is discharged in pompous elegance: the facility, with columns and wall mosaics, consists of three large pools - one of them under a glass atrium. The combination of aromatherapy with the healing traditions of the region as well as Asian-influenced treatments in turn gives the spa a modern, holistic touch. You should start with the spa circuit, which takes you along various stations through hot, warm and cold pools. Stops in the saunas and steam baths open the pores and give the body the opportunity to absorb all the beneficial effects of the over 42 minerals in the water. Even more deeply relaxing is the 45-minute water massage, during which an expert relaxes muscles in the warm water. Afterwards, just floating in the thermal water is like a time-out for the soul.