Ten of the Best Weekend Spa Breaks in Spain and Portugal — From a Medieval Castle to a Thai Oasis in Benidorm

1. Posada Real Castillo del Buen Amor — Salamanca

An imposing 11th-century castle on the plains of Castilla y León, between Salamanca and Zamora. Once home to a bishop and his secret lover, it's now a luxury boutique hotel with rooms filled with antiques and views across the moat and ornamental gardens.

2. Blau Gran Hotel Las Caldas — Asturias

Founded in 1776, one of the oldest spas in Spain. An 800m² sanctuary of pools, hydrotherapy zones, outdoor eco-thermal areas and relaxation spaces set within landscaped gardens just outside Oviedo.

3. Akelarre — San Sebastián

Perched on the slopes of Monte Igueldo, this boutique hotel has its own three-Michelin-starred restaurant run by Pedro Subijana. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Bay of Biscay, plus a wellness area with hydrotherapy pool and hammam.

4. Finca Cortesín — Costa del Sol

Rent a private villa with your own pool and golf course, just a short drive from the Costa del Sol crowds. Six dining venues, a private beach club and a luxurious spa offering Thai treatments. Ultimate indulgence.

5. Brach Hotel — Madrid

Designed by Philippe Starck on Gran Vía, combining Belle Époque opulence with 1920s modernism. A high-tech Le Capsule wellness centre and private seventh-floor balconies above the bustle below.

6. Hotel César — Lanzarote

The former home of architect César Manrique, now an adults-only boutique hotel with just 20 rooms. Volcanic vineyard views, ocean panoramas and the feeling of having the place entirely to yourself.

7. Asia Gardens Hotel & Thai Spa — Benidorm

A portal to Thailand in the hills above Benidorm. Giant Buddha heads, infinity pools, exotic gardens, a Koh Samui restaurant and traditional Thai couples massages in cabins on stilts. All without the long-haul flight.

8. Carrossa Hotel & Spa — Mallorca

A 300-year-old manor house turned five-star hotel in the hills above Artà. Infinity pool views across olive groves to Alcúdia bay, yoga sessions, wine tasting in the bodega and an 800-acre estate.

9. Onyria Marinha — Cascais, Portugal

Set within pine forests just 30 minutes from Lisbon. Couples treatments, coastal cycling, forest walks and Atlantic Ocean sunsets. A world away from city life.

10. Euphoria Retreat — Mystras, Greece

A bonus pick beyond the Iberian Peninsula — a wellness destination built into a Byzantine hillside near ancient Mystras, combining holistic therapies with dramatic Greek mountain scenery.

This article is based on reporting from The Olive Press, published March 24, 2026. Prices and availability may vary — always check directly with the hotel. This article is for informational purposes only.