Welcome to the third iteration of Vogue’s global spa guide, a compendium of the 100 best spas in the world, compiled based on first-person reviews and careful editing. This year, we’ve renewed our focus on establishments that have established a reputation for exceptional care of body and mind, though there is a great variety in the list. Whatever you are seeking when it comes to wellness, there is something here for you.
Why go here?
An Ayurvedic retreat in the Maldives? Hear us out. Sure, the picturesque archipelago is often primarily thought of as a picture-postcard honeymoon destination, but this remote corner of the world is much more than white sand, clear water, and romance. Parents and multigenerational families also call this their vacation spot. Solo travelers seeking a restorative trip come here for seclusion. And over the past years, a select few resorts have ramped up their spas with unique offerings for wellness-minded travelers. But one that has long excelled, and continues to make improvements, is Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru.
What’s the vibe?
Remnants of the island’s past as a coconut plantation linger, most notably the runway-like entrance flanked by soaring palms. As you make your way through the island—best done on your monogrammed bike—the lush vegetation has a grounding effect, particularly powerful when you pull up to AyurMa. (The spa’s name means “Mother of Life.”) The spa is split into two sides: On one half you’ll find your typical Maldives spa, with overwater treatment villas where you can unwind with a massage, facial, or body therapy of your choosing; the other, though, is where things get really special.
Designated as a “well-being haven” rather than a spa, AyurMa is the kind of place where Buddhist prayer flags wave in the wind and an ambient om sound, set at 432 hertz, a frequency believed to have a harmonizing effect on the body, emanates from speakers. Amid the vine-trimmed arches, frangipani trees, and a herb garden, there are three spacious alfresco pavilions where treatments are held. Each one has a pair of stone bathtubs used for detox therapies, indoor and outdoor showers, a steam room, and Ayurveda-style treatment beds made from strychnine wood, a medicinal tree that’s believed to lower uric acid, thereby reducing inflammation. Bar none, they’re some of the most thoughtfully conceived treatment spaces I’ve ever seen and have left an impression since my first visit to the island nearly a decade ago.
The history?
While Ayurveda has played a role at the spa since the resort’s opening in 2006, AyurMa launched in 2022. With the revamped concept came an even greater emphasis on physician-led Ayurvedic healing, along with the introduction of advanced health assessments and data-driven diagnostics that provide insights into biomarkers, gut health, nutritional preferences, posture, and joint mobility. But what has most strongly resonated with AyurMa’s loyal guests is the center’s ability to help them connect with nature, fostering self-love by caring for the planet.
What should you try?
AyurMa is best known for its extensive Panchakarma programs. Lasting between two to three weeks, the first few days are dedicated to detoxification and kick-starting your digestive system through the consumption of varying amounts of ghee. (You start with a tablespoon or so and work your way up as the days progress.) This is then followed by a nourishment phase, with a dietary program tailored to your dosha—a term used to identify three energies (Vata, Pitta, and Kappha) believed to govern physical, mental, and emotional health in Ayurveda—paired with ancient healing practices to purify the body and restore balance.
However, if you’re not quite ready to commit to a lengthy immersion, there are several Ayurvedic treatments to sample, all of which are administered by two therapists who work together to maximize energy flow and lymphatic drainage. While it’s best to choose a treatment based on your dosha, make sure to also voice any concerns you might have. When I expressed that I’ve had trouble sleeping since my teens and have recently noticed increased hair loss, they immediately suggested Shirodhara, which happens to specifically target insomnia and scalp nourishment. While warm oils—all customized with herbs according to my Pitta-Kapha dosha, of course—were slowly poured over me from head to toe during a full-body massage, I found myself wavering in and out of consciousness. The treatment ended with using thali podi powder to wash my hair, and while hair growth doesn’t magically happen overnight, I did notice in the following weeks that I had less breakage and my scalp felt healthier than usual.
How environmentally friendly is it?
No single-use plastic, one of the largest resort-based solar installations in the region, and a garden complete with herbs, fruit, a mushroom house, and cage-free eggs are just a few of the ways in which the resort has set itself up to minimize its impact. The property also takes marine conservation seriously, spanning coral regeneration programs, sea turtle rehabilitation, and collaborative manta ray research with non-profit organization Manta Trust. Both Landaa Giraavaru and sister property Kuda Huraa offer a hands-on hospitality apprenticeship program for young Maldivians who are looking to break into the industry.
What else do you need to know?
Devoted yogis should sign up for one of the eight multiday yoga therapy courses that have been designed to address different ailments ranging from spinal concerns to addiction management. Separately, for those who want a chance at swimming with mantas, nearby Hanifaru Bay is regarded for hosting the largest congregation of these elusive creatures between May and November, so time your trip accordingly.
Who can go?
The spa is typically only available to hotel guests, but on some occasions will welcome non-staying visitors with advance appointments.
Booking details for AyurMa at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru
Address: 20097, Maldives
Read more from Vogue’s Global Spa Guide.
