A day spa in Majorca?

My daughter and I are seeking a decent day spa in Majorca (Mallorca). Have you any suggestions?
21 November 2007

Miranda responds: There are now more than 50 spas of one sort or another in Majorca but still very few really good ones. Majorca suffers from the hoteliers' “we have to have a spa” syndrome and often the spas are small, cramped and run badly while ticking boxes on the facility front.

Even larger destination spas often lack atmosphere and efficiency. So more than ever do your homework and try to book somewhere recommended by someone you trust.

There are two very different spas I would recommend for a special day out with your daughter and both belong to 5-star hotels. If possible go out of high season and take advantage of special day spa packages while enjoying the facilities with fewer guests around. Many spas offer specific mother-and-daughter packages but look at the spa menu and book well in advance - make sure your treatments are booked at the same time, if not in the same room.

The Spa at La Residencia is unique and will appeal to those who enjoy stunning views and true sophistication. One of the first things the Orient Express Group did when it took over the hotel from Richard Branson four years ago was to relocate and enhance the spa facilities.

This spa is for those looking for an intimate experience. The drive to Deia is one of the prettiest in Mallorca and the setting is truly magnificent. The spa manager has remained in post since the Virgin era and recruits only the best therapists who take the VIP status of many of their guests in their stride.

The facilities are fairly simple with the usual sauna and steam rooms and guests can relax pre and post treatment by the quiet indoor pool if the weather is too cold for one of the secluded terraces. However, the treatment rooms are large and stylish and in keeping with the rustic setting.

The beds are huge and comfortable and once the treatment is over the therapist opens the shutters so the guest can sip a cup of tea while taking in the amazing view. Lunch can be enjoyed on the terrace of one of the hotel restaurants and I suggest returning to the spa for the citrus siesta signature treatment for a gentle soothing massage.

The two-hour Rainy Day Spa Ritual costs €136 (£89) each and includes a Thalgo Peel and Polish Body Exfoliation and Moisturising Treatment; Aromatherapy Associates Face and Scalp Massage and an Opi Manicure.

The Holistic Lifestyle Spa at the Marriott Son Antem is another of my favourites. It is probably more accessible for most day spa visitors being only 20 minutes east from Palma. Set in a golf, tennis and family resort environment it might come as a surprise that this large spa is a true retreat.

For maximum benefit you really should arrive early and spend a couple of hours in the holistic area unwinding in the seven different sauna, steam and meditation rooms while chilling down between each session from the ice fountain.

The spa treatment area is calm and Asian in concept and the well travelled and experienced Treatments Manager has a passion for high standards from therapists. He recruits and offers rigorous in house training and has produced an interesting and varied spa menu. They have a couples’ suite and offer a mother and daughter package with a facial and nail file and polish for €170 (£120).

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