With its wild open spaces, mountains, lochs and rivers, Scotland has long been a great country for healthy, outdoor sports and pursuits. A century ago visitors would come to Scotland "to take the waters" in several Hydro hotels - the original Spas. In 1881 Peebles Hydro had a resident doctor who would prescribe such healing treatments as a Russian bath, a volcanic mud bath or a sun and air bath.

The world of the Spa has changed a great deal since then. 5 star country resorts and city hotels throughout Scotland are now offering far more than a golf course, a tennis court or a quiet game of croquet. Now these leading hotels offer the ultimate in gymnasium technology and health spas with every kind of treatment from aromatherapy facials to a Thai massage.

Luxury Scotland represents four of the very best Spa hotels around Scotland. Vivien Devlin, broadcaster, travel writer and a voluntary hedonist for Luxury Scotland has very much enjoyed the experience of discovering their benefits and delights. Read on, enjoy Vivien's observations, and if tempted, plan to give yourself - and your entire body, mind and spirit - a fabulous relaxing treat which will also benefit your health.

Footnote: from Vivien Devlin:

While the craze to keep fit, run marathons and "feel the burn" has been around for a decade or more, the 21st century has created an even deeper passion to keep slim, look younger and live longer. For many people a fitness regime is part of their daily routine and in our busy stress-filled lives, the revitalising world of the Spa has now become a valuable part of a holiday or weekend away.

If you can blend a luxurious environment where you can exercise, swim, relax and pamper your body, as well as sampling the very best of Scottish cuisine and fine wines, amongst natural landscape or a beautiful city, then that must be the perfect combination.

Vivien can be contacted via Luxury Scotland
email: vivien@luxuryscotland.co.uk