There is no better time to bond with a loved one than during spa time. The intimacy of it, the state of zen, the solace; just the all of it. Quite simply, spa time equates to bliss, and when with a partner, this state of bliss is multiplied. It’s together-time you don’t often get, and when you do (like at home), there are daily disruptors (kids, cooking, emails, etc) to battle with. Not within the deeply halcyon space of a spa. It’s just you, your partner and some very hushed healing hands.

Here, three couple-friendly spas to consider for your next date night or sexy sojourn out of town. A little romantic escapism, if you will.

The Byron at Byron spa, byron bay
The Byron at Byron is an institution. A little (or rather, quite large) slice of heaven on the southern fringe of Byron Bay, the resort sits in its own rainforest in Tallows Beach. Amongst the rocking ferns, a serene oasis awaits; its Spa, which as of late, had a makeover (a healthy nip and tuck). For the ultimate date day, choose The Elixir For Two; an intimate, full body immersion for two. First, you are hushed into a dual treatment room for a Full Body Relaxation Massage, which integrates both Swedish and Eastern therapies – heaven. Moving north, your visage is treated to an Organic Mukti Facial; ironing out any signs of fatigue and nourishing your skin with certified organic extracts. Then, the true pièce de résistance; a mineral salt bath and lunch in your very own, private retreat. Indulgent? Very. A beautiful little, Balinese-inspired haven to bliss out in together; unperturbed by the worries of the world, over chargrilled local market fish, or Cape Byron pasture-fed beef, and a herbal tea (or a wine, for the wicked). Soak as you please, feast when you like; a halcyon haven to lose yourself in. It truly feels like you’re somewhere far-flung and exotic, just birdsong and the sway of the rainforest in earshot. Then, the finishing touch; a Deluxe Foot Indulgence Treatment, which includes lower leg massage and pedicure, to carry you forth as you journey back into the world again, this time totally euphoric and happy.

R ‘n’ R: The private couple’s courtyard

SPAQ at QT Sydney, sydney cbd
Amidst the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s CBD, sits the QT Sydney. And underneath the QT Sydney, sits SPAQ; a hidden sanctuary which still maintains the quirks of the QT brand, but rendered with a kind of softness. Yet SPAQ is quite different to many spas of the same ilk; it is decidedly masculine in character – dark, graphic and brooding – and by no means fluffy nor airy. It’s tranquil, but in a different way; idiosyncratic and almost alchemist in tone with chance beakers and brass finishings – it’s arty and hip and very dude-friendly. So when you book in for the (Soul)Mate package, your dude will be most impressed (there’s not a rose petal or cliché in sight). You both enjoy a delicious hour-long massage with your choice of SPAQ ‘Accessory’ – a luxurious add-on (either a 30-minute facial, foot massage, hair treatment or tension massage), then conclude your spa journey in the moody relaxation lounge with the QT’s local brew (special herbal tea) staring into the eyes of your loved one (partner or tea).

Inside the quirky spa concept space

Osprey spa at elements of byron, byron bay
The latest luxury lodging to take up prized real estate in Byron Bay, Elements of Byron is a resort with everything. And with that everything, comes an exceptional spa. The Osprey Spa – wedged between one of the many pools and villa compound – is a minimalist haven for the weary traveller. Punctuated with palm fronds, raw linen and artful bamboo, the space itself is exquisite; as soon as you step afoot a state of sereneness ensues. Each one of the indulgent Rituals can be relished in the Double Treatment Suite – partner in tow. The suites themselves are unique in that they exist both inside and out – a simple roller-door reveals the warm Byron breeze and private, tropical courtyard – and the treatment room becomes an open plan space to enjoy your ritual with nature. Each ritual offers beautifully immersive head-to-toe experiences (their full-body massage is heavenly), and incorporates indulgent LaGaia products. Lie back and relax – just you, your partner and that beautiful hot Byron breeze.

The tranquil relaxation room