Pamper yourself with an indulgent luxury break

A holiday could be almost anything these days. The classic sun, sea and sand formula was long ago joined by a host of less traditional possibilities like extreme sports adventures or holidays more reminiscent of an army boot camp than a break, if you’ve got the odd £20 million burning a hole in your pocket you could even embark on a spot of space tourism!

For those of us who still prefer the idea of a holiday being a chance to relax, get away from the stresses of the daily grind and recharge the batteries though, the appeal of a break that offers a bit of pampering and luxury will always have an enduring appeal.

So for those in search of a five star indulgence we’ve come up with three holidays that might not come cheap but should offer visitors the ultimate in sophisticated luxury.

Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai

There are few more visually dazzling hotels in the world than the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower. Since it was built in 1903 this magnificent hotel, situated on the waterfront in Colaba has justifiably claimed to be the most luxurious in India. Not only do visitors get to revel in an opulent grandeur that recalls the height of lavish Raj-era style, the hotel has also done a good job of keeping up with the latest trends in contemporary luxury without sacrificing any of old-world character.

Hayman Island Resort, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Probably Australia’s most prestigious resort Hayman is located in the Whitsunday island group in the Great Barrier Reef and offers visitors an experience as close to a perfect island paradise as they might hope to find anywhere in the world. The resort incorporates its luxurious facilities sympathetically into the idyllic island surroundings and, as you’d expect, ticks all the boxes when it comes to activities, spa and leisure facilities and gourmet dinning options.

Convento do Espinheiro, Heritage Hotel & Spa, Évora, Portugal

Voted Portugal’s best spa resort; if its indulgent pampering you’re after then this is the place for you. Located amongst rolling hills in the picturesque countryside around the historic city of Evora, the beautiful setting is certainly amongst this attractive former convent’s most appealing features.
Beyond this however the resort offers visitors a comprehensive range of opportunities to indulge themselves and achieve a state of total relaxation and inner tranquility

Find out more about Taj Mahal Palace and Tower on their website (Taj Hotels)

You can find competitively priced air tickets on flights to Australia at Dialaflight or Cheapflights.com

The Convento do Espinheiro spa resort is part of the Starwood Spa Collection