If you’re planning some serious time out on your vacation and need to fully rejuvenate, a stay at a spa may be just the thing. A gentle regimen of daily massage, healthy eating, moderate exercise and magnificent scenery will leave you feeling great after a few days. You will find that the complementary health facilities are among the worlds finest and the exchange rate makes the whole experience a totally stress-free and budget friendly one. Most spas have very flexible offerings so you can stay for as long or as short as you like.

Cradle Health Spa Hydro & Wellness Retreat

: Nestled into the foothills of the majestic Magaliesburg Mountains, in the picturesque village of Hartbeespoort Dam, the Cradle Health Spa is the ideal oasis for a holistic healing experience . Only 45 minutes from Sandton, they combine the natural tranquillity of nature with the comfort of luxury and bring you a Hydro Medical Spa that caters to your every whim and brings your body and spirit back into harmony. www.cradlehealthspa.co.za/home

Hoogland Health Hydro

Whether you need to experience complete rest and relaxation, improve fitness, focus on weight management, and/or just need some decadent pampering, we are at your service. With the benefit of varied hydro therapies, an adjustable diet programme, exercise, health lectures, and a whole range of body and face therapies, you will be mentally, emotionally & physically recharged. Hoogland Health Hydro is nestled in the Shurveberg Mountains, in Gauteng’s largest private game reserve. Fresh air and natural beauty abound. Hoogland is less than an hours drive from Johannesburg. www.hoogland.co.za

Abloom Bush Lodge and Spa Retreat:

In the beauty of an undiscovered bush valley you can find the 5 star equivalent Abloom Bush Lodge & Spa Retreat. Just outside of the world famous but small historical town of Cullinan, two hours from Johannesburg, Carmen and Lowie run their unique and exclusive boutique hotel. Abloom specialises in all inclusive packages where lodging and unlimited spa are included in the price. www.abloom.co.za

Valley Lodge & Spa

Valley Lodge & Spa was awarded the prestigious Gold Award for providing the best Overall Accommodation, best Spa Experience and best Tourism Establishment throughout the West Rand by the Westrand Tourism authority. Valley Lodge is located in Magaliesberg, on lush grounds crossed by a pristine river and streams which provide a home to much indigenous vegetation and prolific bird life. Valley Lodge is renowned for its delicious cuisine and myriad hospitality. This 4 – star country retreat nestles in the Magaliesburg on the private banks of the Magalies River less than an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. Surrounded by a nature reserve on extensive grounds, this exclusive country hideaway offers 75 individually furnished rooms ranging from superior elegance and luxury to country-cozy, ensuring the ultimate in comfort. Famed for its professional, welcoming staff and world-class Valley Lodge Spa, Valley Lodge is the perfect de-stressing destination for a break away. www.valleylodge.co.za

Askari Spa

Askari Spa at Askari Game Lodge reflects the environment that surrounds it – African veldt and wildlife rise up to meet the African sky and majestic Magaliesberg mountain range. This Big 5 Game lodge is scenically set between Hekpoort and Magalieburg, just over an hour’s drive from Johannesburg. The lodge offers guests a memorable Big 5 wildlife experience within a malaria free environment. www.askarilodge.co.za/spa.php

Hakunamatata Spa

Recharge your body & mind, and enjoy the wide selection of relaxation therapies at Hakunamatata Spa, or in covered lapas in the tranquility of the gardens. Choose from the seasonal, group, stay-over or customised packages. Hakunamatata Spa is less than a 30 minute drive from Johannesburg. www.hakunamatata.co.za/spa/

Kievits Kroon Country Estate

Escape to Kievits Kroon, a beautiful, tranquil country estate, known for its luxury accommodation, superb facilities, immaculate gardens, gourmet dining and wellness spa. Acknowledged as “the Winelands in Gauteng” because of its Cape Dutch-style architecture, award-winning Kievits Kroon Country Estate offers pampering and luxury for couples looking for a romantic weekend or mid-week getaway. Less than an hours drive from Johannesburg, and set along a Jacaranda-lined lane on a 16 hectare estate, Kievits Kroon is a sought-after destination. www.kievitskroon.co.za