This old Soviet sanatorium, first established in 1967, has just reopened its doors after an extensive three-year refurbishment. Set in 21 hectares of beautiful wooded grounds, and only 20 minutes from the centre of the city, this is a fantastic escape in to the stunning nature that surrounds Almaty. The spa part of the hotel offers a medicinal approach, promising to ease a variety of ailments, as well as cosmetic treatments, meaning one way or the other guests leave feeling better than when they arrived. Set in the grounds are numerous sports pitches ranging from volleyball to football, as well as four different swimming pools. The 135 rooms are sleek, modern and spacious and you needn’t ever leave the hotel, as it’s equipped with a selection of restaurants, an internet café and bar, and even a nightclub. Alternatively, simply visit for the day for a mere 5,000 KZT.