If you're looking for a relaxing weekend break, a few nights at a spa hotel can really recharge your batteries. Discover a world of relaxation and indulgence at Europe's top luxury spa hotels, from award-winning afternoon teas to exotic treatments.

Here's the low-down on the best spots for a massage that the continent has to offer …

1. Berkeley Hotel, London, UK

Contemporary elegance is the best way to describe the beautiful Berkeley in Knightsbridge. Escape the pressures (and pollution) of the big smoke with a relaxing rooftop swim beneath the stars or one of the infamous Pret-a-Portea afternoon teas. What could be more relaxing than haute-design treats, such as Chanel lime cakes and Christian Dior pink chocolate biscuits? The legendary hotel is also top of the list for treatments; soothe yourself with a delicious LaStone massage or traditional Balinese therapies.

2. Canbonastre Wine Resort Hotel, Masquefa, Spain

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Whenever one sees a picture of a hut, one thinks of Africa. Indeed, huts have been the defining architectural hallmark of Africa, and throughout the continent, they have been the preferred building style.

Huts are a form of living space. Huts are usually round, with a peaked roof. They are usually made of mud or clay, with a wooden structure to support the building, and a single wooden pole in the centre, which supports the grass-thatched roof.

Many critics of Africa claim that Africa can boast no great cultures south of Egypt. By that, they often mean that there is no architectural evidence of greatness south of the Pyramids. Indeed, architecture or architectural remains are the accepted calling card of the so-called ‘great cultures’.

While most of Africa can boast no such fossil evidence, there is reason to believe that the architectural choices made by the Africans thus far are … Read More

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