Couples spa getaways, weekends and bliss holidays

The room, dimly lit with candles and infused with lavender, soothes my soul. My partner reaches across from his massage table and our fingers touch. All vestiges of our busy lives slip away as the sound of trickling water and lilting flutes fill the room.

This is the beginning of a couple's weekend package getaway. It's time we've devoted to help reawaken our connection and commitment to each other. After our massage, we'll enjoy infused waters, fresh fruit and something bready from the chef. Whether it's poolside lounging, side-by-side facials or a workout on the elliptical machines, the rest of our weekend is just for us.

We're not alone when it comes to romancing the spa for health, wellness and a little bit of marriage therapy thrown in for good measure. Whether you want to be coddled or get sweaty, most offer stress management strategies, mind and body detoxifying treatments and all-out relaxation.

To help you get healthy now and rediscover your natural aphrodisiacs, the spas we visited make "well-being" more than just a philosophy. Your hot tub awaits...

Millcroft Inn & Spa, Alton, Ontario, Canada

Nestled beneath an elaborate canopy of willows and maples, this rustic resort is an hour's drive from Toronto's International Airport. Flanked by the twisting Credit River in Caledon Hills, the century-old converted mill stands guard over picturesque falls. Come in the summer and stroll through lush gardens or visit in the fall and let your eyes drink in the colors of the changing landscape. If you visit in the winter enjoy your days on the slopes and evenings in the hot tub.

Millcroft accommodations

Personal attention is the hallmark here. We chose a room in the Manor House for the double Jacuzzi tub and charming antique furnishings. Rooms in the Main Mill overlook Shaw's Creek Falls while the Croft rooms are pet-friendly and most have a 2-person, outdoor hot tub.

Millcroft spa

We dove into our spa bliss with their signature "Deluxe Health Kur." It begins with a body polish, followed by the "Blitz Guss" - a strong stream of water pressure applied from the feet to the back and shoulders to rev up circulation. Warning, this strong stream can better be described as high-pressure - it's intense but so worth the relaxation it brings afterward.

For more poetic stress relief, try the "Couple's Orufu," a traditional Japanese bath ritual that will leave you feeling soft as a noodle. A relaxing soak (together) followed by an aromatic massage may even inspire you to write your own haiku.

If you go

Seasonal Spa Specials packages will tempt you with varying offers (seasonally) from credits and additional discounts when accomodations and services are combined. Want more information, visit the Millcroft online or call: 800.383.3976.

Willowstream Spa, Scottsdale Princess Fairmont, Scottsdale, AZ

Set against a backdrop of terra cotta mountains, the rugged Sonoran desert rises up to meet the ever-cloudless sky. Infused with the spirit of the Havasu Falls in the Grand Canyon, the Willow Stream Spa is the ultimate desert oasis. "The word SPA comes from the Latin phrase Salus Per Aquam, which means Health By Water," says a representative from the spa. "Health is measured by the degree of "Life" present, and our spas have always been places that encourage or increase Life or energy. Our ‘Moor Mud Wrap' not only removes toxins but also replaces trace nutrients."

Scottsdale Fairmont Princess accommodations

We stayed in the ultra-lux spa casita with a private balcony overlooking tropical gardens punctuated with palm trees - the perfect setting for late night cocktails or an early morning coffee in a chenille robe from the spa boutique. Each casita comes with an all-season fireplace, double-Jacuzzi ensuite, air conditioning and all the amenities you expect from a five star resort.

Willowstream spa

The spa's 25 treatment rooms spread over three levels and are linked by a flowing waterfall. Couple's rooms offer a large bathtub and an outdoor patio so you can order lunch with your massage. We opted for the "Willow Stream Relaxation Massage" followed by the "Marine Energy Facial."

If you go

For more information, visit the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess online or call: 866.540.4495.

Westin Maui Resort & Spa

From the moment you arrive, you'll agree this resort lives up to its motto: "The Place Where Heaven and Aloha Meet." Perched on Maui's Ka'anapali Beach, it's the perfect environment to rediscover your hidden passions. While you wait for your treatments, sip on lavender lemonade and watch the cobalt blue ocean washing against powdery white beaches.

Westin Maui Accommodation

All guest rooms are furnished with luxurious all-white plush beds with 10 layers of heaven: a custom-designed pillow-top mattress set, cozy down blankets, crisp sheets, a comforter, duvet and five fluffy pillows. Can you say aahh?

Spa Menu

Choose your path to heaven from the "Helani Cabana Poolside Massage," "Westin Heavenly Facial" and a myriad of body therapies in 25 treatment rooms. All treatments incorporate your choice of island fragrances, like the Maui-grown lavender.

If you go

For more information, visit the Westin Maui Resort & Spa online or call: 866.500.831. The Westin also offers package deals for families, so if you're taking keikis (children) with you, make sure to ask about what's available.

The Grand Marriott, Point Clear, Alabama

An immersion in gracious hospitality and renewed inspiration, The Grand is inspired by the rich and vivid tapestry of antebellum life. Since 1874 it's kept watch over the shimmering waters of Mobile Bay, and served as a sanctuary from the frenzy of everyday life.

Read more about GG's trip to the Grand Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa.

The Villas of Amelia Island Plantation, Florida

Perched on the northernmost point of Amelia Island, Florida and just north of Jacksonville International Airport, Amelia Island Plantation overlooks the rippling blue waves of the Atlantic on one side and mossy green marshlands on the other. Minutes from the shore, but miles from stress is the mantra here. Before your first coffee (or herbal tea), enjoy a stroll along the 3-mile beach. From hot tubs to hammocks, prepare to be transported to a world where time moves slowly and profound relaxation is all that matters.

Read more on GG's experiences at The Villas of Amelia Island Plantation.

Planning to follow your bliss to a spa this summer? Share your favorite spa with us in a comment below or  follow us on Twitter or like us on Facebook and let's start talking!