Another drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside to San Casciano dei Bagni and we arrive at Fonteverde – one of the most famous Italian spas and a consistent award winner, including ‘Best Spa in Italy’ in last year’s SpaFinder Readers’ Choice Awards!

This hot spot had to be on our itinerary.

Spread over 5 acres and featuring seven thermal pools, Fonteverde is an unforgettable place. The hotel is 5-star luxury, the facilities at poolside are elegant and understated. There is a choice of hot and cool thermal water to laze in. The outdoor dining was exceptional. And the range of spa treatments extensive and tailored to you as an individual.

I experienced a full body massage – all that driving! – and had a microdermabrasion facial over our two-night stay. I was relaxed and positively glowed during the time spent chilling out around the pool. Sadly, I wasn’t able to get an appointment with Fonteverde’s star therapist, Dipu. His unique massages are much sought after and need to be booked up to two months in advance! A tip for any visit to Fonteverde is to book ahead!

Another exclusive feature is their Bioaquam circuit – an indoor/outdoor thermal pool experience with surprising hydromassages from geysers, beds and armchairs. And as this is a bookable ‘treatment’ the pools are never crowded – a real bonus.

Overall this was one of the best spas I have ever been to – and if and when I need a getaway-from-it-all relaxing spa (not too far from the UK) this would be high on the list.