Four standout spas in Portugal have made the prestigious World Spa Awards list — a global initiative that aims to “celebrate and reward excellence in spa and wellness tourism”.
The Laurea Spa at the Savoy Palace (Madeira), the Vila Vita Spa by Sisley at Vila Vita Parc (Porches), the Pine Cliffs Resort (Albufeira) and The Spa at Corinthia Lisbon all earned a place among the world’s spa elite, being named Portugal’s top spas.
In the Algarve, Vila Vita Spa by Sisley was crowned Portugal’s Best Resort Spa, beating out rivals such as Anantara Vilamoura, Conrad Algarve and Tivoli Carvoeiro. Spa manager Judith Gerls said: “This recognition validates our team’s vision of uniting state-of-the-art wellness technology with personalised care, and acknowledges our pioneering treatments — such as our world-renowned Golden Quartz experience — as well as the dedication our therapists bring to every journey. It is extremely gratifying to know this recognition comes from our guests’ experiences — their relaxation, renewal and joy are what motivate us to keep innovating and raising our standards.”
Also in the Algarve, the Pine Cliffs Resort was named Portugal’s Best Wellness Retreat, thanks to its partnership with Serenity – The Art of Well Being, which offers a wide range of tailored programmes. From weight-loss plans to Ayurvedic therapies, intensive fitness regimens and burnout prevention, the resort outshone competitors including Saccharum in Madeira, Quinta da Comporta and Quinta do Rabaçal in Tábua.
Portugal’s Best Day Spa went to The Spa at Corinthia Lisbon, recognised for its luxurious full-day retreat. The programme begins with breakfast at the Sky Lounge before a hydrotherapy circuit, followed by a 30-minute salt-and-oil scrub, a 50-minute serenity massage, and a 50-minute “inner beauty” facial, finishing with a three-course meal at the Soul Garden Restaurant & Bar. Other nominees included Monchique’s Sensorial Spa at Monchique Resort & Spa and Serenity Spa Algarve.
Lastly, the Laurea Spa in Funchal was crowned the country’s Best Hotel Spa. At over 3,000 square metres with 11 treatment rooms, it is the largest spa in Europe. Designed by renowned Madeiran architect Nini Andrade Silva, the spa draws inspiration from the island’s Laurissilva Forest, reinterpreting its ancient tunnels in spiral form leading to heated pools and sensory showers. It triumphed over 11 other nominees, including Palácio Estoril, Sana Lisboa, Six Senses Douro and Tivoli Kopke.
