Luxurious spa breaks in Monaco

If you have often been curious about the principality of Monaco, famed for its tax haven status, then a spa break is a fun way to experience this glamorous Mediterranean destination.

At springtime, temperatures in Monaco reach 16 degrees, ideal for relaxing at Easter and soaking up some sun by the coast.

Among the spas in Monte Carlo - the wealthiest of Monaco's four quarters - is Les Thermes Marins de Monte Carlo, a thalassotheraphy spa that harnesses the healing properties of salt water and seaweed to ease stress.

The spa has around 40 treatment rooms, as well as facilities including a beauty and hairdressing salon, an indoor swimming pool, jet pool, cardio-fitness room and a Moroccan-style hammam.

For more information on Les Thermes Marins de Monte Carlo see www.montecarlospa.com

Also in Monte-Carlo is the Metropole ESPA, considered to be one of the most luxurious spas in the world. Located in the centre of Monte Carlo features include a crystal steam room, an ice fountain, and scented therapeutic showers.

And to really blow the budget you could opt for the private spa suite which has steam showers and whirlpool baths.

All the spa's thirteen treatment rooms are individually decorated so as to give guests a unique luxury spa experience.

Other facilities at the Metropole ESPA include a fitness studio and a seawater pool with swim-up bar.

For more information on the Metropole ESPA see www.metropole.com

The newest spa in Monte Carlo is Le Cinq Mondes at the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort.

As the name suggests, the spa's treatments are inspired by techniques used across the world, including Japan, China, Indonesia, North Africa and Brazil.

Additionally, the spa has a policy of not using any products made from silicone, mineral oils, artificial colouring and animal-based ingredients.

As well as its 11 treatment rooms the spa has a yoga room, a Turkish bath, a fitness room, a sauna and a salon.

For more information on the Cinq Mondes spa see www.cinqmondes.com

Monaco can be reached from Nice by car and is around 15 miles from the airport.

Return flights in April with British Airways from London Gatwick airport start from £68 (www.ba.com)

For more information on visiting Monaco see www.visitmonaco.com