South Australia’s wellness scene is shining on the global stage, with West Lakes’ IONE Spa & Wellness earning a coveted finalist spot in the 2026 World Spa Awards for Australia’s Best Day Spa.
The luxury waterfront retreat is the only South Australian spa to be recognised in this year’s awards, which are widely regarded as one of the highest honours in the international spa and wellness tourism industry.
The World Spa Awards celebrate leading wellness destinations from around the globe that are excelling in quality, innovation and guest experience. This places IONE alongside some of the world’s most respected luxury spas and wellness retreats.
Since opening its purpose-built sanctuary at West Lakes in 2021, IONE Spa & Wellness has established itself as one of Adelaide’s premier wellness destinations. The spa has become known for its immersive treatment experiences, signature bathhouse rituals and holistic approach to relaxation, attracting guests from across South Australia and beyond.
Every aspect of the space has been carefully designed to create a sense of calm and restoration, from chromotherapy lighting and natural finishes to luxurious treatment rooms and thoughtfully curated wellness experiences.
For owner and founder Anna Burden, the international recognition is a huge milestone.
“To be recognised on a global stage alongside some of the world’s most respected spa and wellness destinations is incredibly humbling,” shared Anna. “We have always believed South Australians deserve access to wellness experiences that rival the very best in the world, and this nomination validates the vision, passion and dedication our team brings to every guest experience.”
The nomination adds to a growing list of accolades for IONE, which has previously been recognised at the Australasian Spa & Wellness Awards for its excellence in design, innovation and guest experience.
For an independently owned South Australian business to stand alongside internationally renowned luxury resorts and destination spas is a huge achievement. And IONE was the only South Australian finalist in the Day Spa category.
“Being the only South Australian finalist makes this achievement even more special,” said Anna. “It shines a spotlight not only on our team and what we’ve created at IONE, but on South Australia as a destination capable of delivering world-class wellness experiences.”
Another South Australian spa, Southern Spa at Southern Ocean Lodge, has also been nominated in the Best Resort Spa category.
For IONE Spa & Wellness, the nomination is already a significant achievement. Public voting for the World Spa Awards 2026 is now open and will close on August 4th, with winners to be announced on September 22nd.
Australia’s Best Day Spa Nominees
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa
Eléme Day Spa at Crystalbrook Riley
Elysia Day Spa
Gillian Adams Day Spa
IONE spa and wellness
Nature’s Energy Day Spa & Bathhouse – Glebe
The Day Spa by Chuan at The Langham, Sydney
IONE Spa & Wellness
Where: Unit 74/155 Brebner Dr, West Lakes SA 5021
For more information, click here.
To vote for the World Spa Awards 2026, click here.
