Haute Hammam in Türkiye

The location and history of the landmark buildings housing the new Peninsula Istanbul (from $1,010; peninsula.com) are just two of the many features that make this hotel iconic. Set in four classically inspired architectural wonders along the Bosphorus strait, the property’s 18,000-square-foot spa (one of the largest in the city) features a dramatically lit, 25-meter pool with submerged speakers for underwater music, a state-of-the-art fitness center, saunas, steam rooms, and two hammams that link mosque-like marble curves with traditional bath culture in a modern, understated way.

Communal bathhouses can be found throughout this historic city, but for a truly private experience, a session with a seasoned practitioner at The Peninsula Spa & Wellness Centre cannot be beat. Choose from three rituals with the 45-minute Turkish Hammam Bath being the most traditional. A kese glove is used to remove dead skin and improve circulation, followed by a sudsy soap-bubble massage. Bath foam is a Turkish tradition, using oil-based Castile soap as opposed to the authentic black soap made from olive oil and crushed olives in a Moroccan treatment. Another 45-minute experience, Serene Hammam, features Australian skincare brand Subtle Energies, known for its results-oriented aromatherapy treatments founded on Ayurvedic principles. For 120 minutes, the Oriental Encounter, which also incorporates Subtle Energies products, combines traditional Turkish hammam rituals with a relaxing custom massage to balance emotions, release stress, and reduce anxiety.

The word “SPA” derives from the Latin “Salus Per Aquam,” which means “health through water,” and a visit to the serene tea lounge before or after the bath tops off this wellness journey with additional antioxidants.