Armchair travel: by the water

Whilst the idea of travelling currently feels like a far-flung fantasy, we are dreaming of beautiful honeymoon destinations and planning future trips. Studies have shown that being close to water is good for our mental health as minerals in the air can reduce stress. Negative ions, which are found by natural waterfalls, help with the flow of oxygen to our brains, which makes us more alert and provides us with a boost of energy. Salt water is helpful in warding off depression by elevating tryptamine, serotonin, and melatonin. These also improve sleep quality, as well as contributing to general wellbeing.

Moreover, listening to water can be a meditative, soothing experience as the water's rhythm and natural sounds impact our own internal rhythms, creating a sense of inner peace.Today we are transporting ourselves to these properties located on or nearby natural water - the perfect way to ease the mind and heal the soul...

San Luis, South Tyrol 

Just short of the Austrian border and high on the Avelengo plateau is San Luis – an unbeatable combination of stunning views, delicious food and a wow-factor spa. Guests can stay in private chalets located around the hotel's own lake or treehouses perched high in the canopy of the forest – all equipped with saunas, soft down bedding and hot tubs. Take a swim or simply soak up the peacefulness that this property offers. 

San Luis offers chalets and treehouses from 305 (approx. £285) per person on a half board basis. For more information please visit www.sanluis-hotel.com.

Hotel Eden Roc, Ascona, Switzerland 

Hotel Eden Roc is perched on the Swiss shores of Lake Maggiore with its own beach and swimming pool fringed by palms, reflecting its Mediterranean climate. Sheltered by the surrounding mountains, the area's balmy micro-climate makes it the ideal setting to spend a day relaxing by the pool and enjoy boundless water sports on the lake. For the perfect finish to the day dine on fresh fish and Italian-Swiss delicacies in one of the hotel's four excellent restaurants. 

Hotel Eden Roc offers double rooms from CHF 661 (approx. £586) per night based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis. For more information please visit www.edenroc.ch. 

Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como, Italy 

On the edge of the serene and astonishingly beautiful Lake Como sits Mandarin Oriental's newest Italian property, opened last year and encompassing all the glamour and beauty of its iconic setting. Positioned on the eastern shores of the lake, Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como captures the long afternoon sun and lazy, charming days can be spent reclining by the floating pool.

Villa Roccabruna, the 18th century epicentre of the hotel, has a romantic history linked to opera. We look forward to spending the day exploring the tiny villages by boat including visiting hidden waterfalls and palazzos before an evening by lake-side restaurant L'Aria, feasting on Mediterranean cuisine al fresco. 

Mandarin Oriental, Lago di Como offers rooms from 570 (approx. £520) per night on a B&B basis. For further information visit www.mandarinoriental.com/lake-como/blevio/luxury-hotel.