Four spas where you can rough it in style

Looking for a down-to-earth spa break without the swanky gold taps, marble floors and private butler? Suzanne Duckett selects four low-key properties where you can rough it in style.

The Om service

Helen Oldfield kicks off our spa special with an energising programme of Ayurvedic therapies at a former viceroys' palace in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Healthy options

Felice Hardy finds the best places to ease away the stresses and strains.

Gently does it

The easy life comes naturally to Imogen Tilden on a former coconut plantation.

Fresh Eire

Where can you go from crumpled crone to taut youngster - while also signing up for some bracing outdoor activities? Rachel Cooke finds the answer in windswept Ireland.

My own private paradise

Who did Mariella Frostrup meet in the Seychelles? Absolutely no one. Once upon a time we went on holiday to meet new people but now we do our best to avoid them. Having lapped up a week of luxury in splendid, pampered isolation, she did finally talk to her fellow holidaymakers... on the way home.

Go with the flow

Pikka Brassey learns how to harness energy levels on a weekend reiki course near Cherbourg.

No pain, plenty of gain

It's January again: time to clean up your act. Doesn't sound like fun? Don't worry, says Gwyn Topham, the detox package at myhotel Chelsea offers exercise, body scrubs - and an enormous bed and widescreen TV.

Body or soul?

We explore the best escapes from the rat race and talk to readers about the trips that changed them. Ian Belcher kicks off with a search for serenity. Are you more likely to find it at a luxury spa or a monastic retreat?

Body and soul

Suzanne Duckett, author of The Spa Directory, selects the best resorts to recover from the excesses of Christmas.

Cleaning up your act

After the annual descent into overindulgence that is the festive season, it will be time once again for us all to make promises we've no intention of keeping involving gym-buffed bodies and stress-free heads. Gavan Naden checks out 10 spas where the hard work's done for you.