Healthy holidays, because looking after yourself is important

It’s the star of the Mediterranean diet, and you probably already know how healthy it is as a culinary ingredient. But this liquid gold is also a valuable ally for your skin. Olive oil therapy techniques, such as relaxing massages, face masks and body treatments, moisturise and protect the skin. The main difference between olive oil and other oils is its high concentration of antioxidants, which enhances its relaxing effect and improves skin elasticity. You can enjoy this therapy with extra virgin olive oil in many spas and wellness centres in Spain. There are more to choose from in the main olive-growing areas, like Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha and Cataluña. For example, in Jaén (Andalusia) you can complete the experience with visits to almazaras (the mills where oil is pressed from the olive), tastings and workshops.

As a soap, as a gel, as a cream, or even as a juice… aloe vera is one of the most fashionable natural therapy discoveries of recent years, and the Canary Islands are among the main producers. The reasons? The permanent spring-like temperatures, the many hours of sunshine, and the volcanic landscape that encourages it to grow. These qualities make the destination the perfect place to find the calm you’re looking for. Did you know all the Canary Islands have spas and wellness centres? There are more than 20 in total. Can you imagine lying in the sunshine, with views of the sea, enjoying a comfortable 21 degrees centigrade, and discovering the benefits of aloe vera? Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria are the islands growing the most aloe vera, and it’s easy to visit an organic farm and learn about its calming, healing and regenerating properties.