With summer wedding season around the corner, brides-to-be seeking to reject the typical bacchanalian break can opt for a new trend: the ‘zen do’. Characterised by absolute relaxation and conviviality between friends, the zen do is a great alternative to soothe any pre-wedding jitters, hone the physique for the big day, and even learn something new along the way. 

Holistic Wellbeing Programs at Pine Cliffs, Portugal

With a range of two- to seven-night holistic wellbeing retreats that fuse fitness, nutrition and spa, Pine Cliffs, a Luxury Collection Resort in Portugal’s Algarve region offers the perfect oasis for a stylish zen-do.

Bridal parties keen to hone the bod for the big day can have a consultation with the resident nutritionist (with a take-home diet plan), complemented with healthful dishes at the dedicated Zest Restaurant, juice boosts and inspiring personal training sessions. Whilst those seeking to calm nerves can enjoy a range of meditative therapies, from yoga and Pilates to sound healing, within tranquil clifftop gardens overlooking the Atlantic.

Alongside a host of spa treatments, ladies can luxuriate at the renowned Serenity – The Art of Well Being spa complete with hydrotherapy pool, Himalayan salt sauna, experience showers, ice fountains and al fresco Jacuzzi. Or those keen to add a little glamour to proceedings can book the private Aurum Suite: a gilded ‘spa within a spa’ perfect for intimate groups, with private jacuzzi and a Swarovski crystal chandelier.

Guests can further elevate the experience with the new Luxe Wellness Cookery Class at the Mimo Algarve culinary school. Participants learn nifty tips to transform local seasonal produce into healthful Portuguese dishes with luxurious touches such as caviar, truffle, gold leaf and aromatic vanilla beans. The gang can enjoy the fruits of their labour with a four-course gourmet meal paired with expertly-chosen organic wine, and finish with teas made with locally-grown herbs.

Pine Cliffs Resort’s seven Wellbeing Programs are available from a two- to seven-night stay basis.

Prices start from €770 per person for a two-night Digital Detox retreat, staying in a Junior Ocean Suite with Resort View. Add the Luxe Wellness Cookery Class from €85 per person. Aurum Suite bookings subject to additional fee.

For more information or to book, visit www.serenity-spa.com.

Tropical Tranquillity at The Crane, Barbados

Set on Barbados’ secluded east coast, The Crane Resort is the ultimate haven for bridal parties looking to truly glow on the big day.

Bridal parties can embrace the wonders of nature with a spot of sunrise clifftop yoga at the Caribbean’s most easterly point. Led by local yogi Kristy Gittens, these unforgettable sessions include stretching, lengthening and meditation combined with panoramic Atlantic views and cool island breezes.

The zen experience doesn’t have to end after the spa rituals; bridal parties can indulge in a variety of delicious and healthy delicacies, from Thai / Japanese fusion cuisine at the aptly named ZEN, to authentic Italian at D’Onofrios Trattoria, to traditional Caribbean and fresh seafood at L’Azure.

Group yoga classes take place Thursdays 8am – 9am and costs from $20 per person.Private classes available on request at a price of $45 for an individual session.Stay at The Crane in a Junior Suite from $237 on a room only basis.

For more information or to book, visit www.thecrane.com

Spectacular and Idyllic Spa Treatment at Spice Island Beach Resort, Grenada

Located in the “Spice Isle” of the Caribbean, Spice Island Beach Resort is an experience to be treasured. The hotel’s sprawling eight-acre property is located on the world-famous Grand Anse Beach and offers bridal parties the opportunity to be pampered by a gracious family with a long history of excellence in hospitality.

Designed by top sustainable architect and interior designer Kobi Karp, Janissa’s Spa ranks amongst the finest spas in the Caribbean. Featuring a welcoming outdoor relaxation lounge with a reflection pool, Janissa’s spa allows bridal parties to fully submerge themselves in the soothing calm of the ocean seaweed. Guests can refresh with the “Spice Classic Chocolate Body Wrap”: a truly unique experience made from local Grenadian Chocolate that revitalizes and nourishes the skin.

With an idyllic oceanfront setting and unforgettable views, the beach pavilion offers bridal parties the chance to have a private yoga class to truly focus on themselves in a tranquil environment.

Following an incredible spa day, bridal parties are able to indulge in mouth-watering food, including classic Caribbean cuisine at Oliver’s as well as the toes-in-the-sand vibe of the Sea and Surf Terrace & Bar.

Jannissa’s Spa packages start at $125 (£95) with individual services starting at $35 (£26).Stay at Spice Island Beach Resort in a Oleander Garden View Suite from $1,387 on a room only basis.

For more information or to book, visitwww.spiceislandbeachresort.com

A Tranquil and Holistic Experience at Vakkaru Maldives

Nestled between swaying coconut trees and foliage, Vakkaru Maldives is perfect for guests who want to feel the soft white sand between their toes and plunge into the turquoise waters of the lagoon.

Bridal parties can find inner serenity at the luxurious overwater Merana Spa. Using the finest natural ingredients, guests can be pampered, hydrated and improve their skin just in time for the big day.

A signature staple on the island, bridal parties can indulge in the “Vakkaru Signature Journey”, which consists of various hair, body and facial massages all made from locally produced coconuts on the island. This unique ritual includes a heated coconut shell massage, leaving bridal guests feeling relaxed, balanced and rejuvenated.

If bridal parties prefer privacy, Vakkaru provides an “In Villa Indulgence”: a selection of massages and treatments performed exclusively in their own villa. Guests can practise the gentle art and techniques of massage that they can then take away with them to create the experience at home – perfect for the honeymoon!

Bridal parties can remain tranquil and relaxed throughout the evening with a collection of delectable restaurants: Vakku, a holistic gastronomic experience, Onu, an authentic Asian chic and Isoletta, food inspired by the seaside.

Vakkaru’s “Vakkaru Signature Journey” starts at $338 / £258. Stay at Vakkaru in a Beach Bungalow from $990 / £757 on a room only basis.

For more information or to book, visit, www.vakkarumaldives.com

Authentic Moroccan Serenity at La Mamounia, Marrakech

Boasting incredible views of the Atlas Mountains and the hotel gardens, La Mamounia, Marrakech asserts all the elegance of a 5-star palace hotel, making it the ultimate place for relaxation and tranquillity ahead of the big day.

Set in an authentic Moroccan interior, La Mamounia’s majestic spa provides a gentle and peaceful atmosphere. Featuring beautiful windows, arcades and alcoves, the spa décor creates the ideal balance of modernity and tradition – perfect for a girly catch up and a full body massage.

The hotel provides an unforgettable journey into the senses and uses 100% natural products, leaving bridal parties feeling nourished, cleansed, and hydrated. From a facial to a pedicure, the spa menu is extensive, ensuring that the bridal party leaves feeling calm and ready to walk down the aisle.

After a dreamy day relaxing by the spa and pool, bridal parties can get the dream blowout from the iconic hairdressing salon before indulging in some incredible local Moroccan delicacies, courtesy of La Marocian. Guests can also enjoy the Italian Restaurant Marrakech and Le Pavilion de la Piscine, which is built around a pool – the ultimate heaven.

La Mamounia’s famous Hammam spa experience starts at 1200 MAD / £94. Stay at La Mamounia in a Hivernage Classic Room from MAD 6900 / £542 on a room only basis.

For more information or to book, visit, www.mamounia.com/en/