Photo by Harry Vorsteher

Millions of visitors a year converge on the Vegas Strip for its nightlife, 24-hour gaming, amazing restaurants, exquisite shopping and opulent entertainment. However, amid the glitz and glamour, primping and posturing, are those – albeit hard to believe – looking for a respite. And what better way to ease oneself from hours of copious imbibing than sweating in the lap of luxury?

Las Vegas boasts some of the world's most spectacular spas with cutting-edge fitness centers catering to exercise enthusiasts of all levels

Canyon Ranch SpaClub (The Venetian & The Palazzo, 702.414.3600), a mammoth 134,000-square-foot, two-level health spa, is the epitome of what a "SpaClub" should be. With a 40-foot indoor rock-climbing wall that greets you when you enter, this state-of-the-art facility is a fitness fanatic's reverie. World renowned for its emphasis on total well-being, Canyon Ranch SpaClub offers nutritionists, exercise physiologists and physical therapists. Also on the menu of daily offerings are Pilates, yoga and the conventional relaxation services expected from a resort of this caliber. However, unique to this Strip spa is a class schedule that rivals most health clubs. Whether it's the 6 a.m. Indoor Cycling classes, BOSU Zone or the Yamuna Foot Fitness (a 20-minute class that strengthens your feet, improving your overall function and flexibility), you are sure to find a class that fits your schedule and fitness personality.

Spa Bellagio (702.693.7472) is as grand as the hotel is brilliant. Tucked behind the serene beige and ivory walls, you will find a 6,000-square-foot high-tech mega center. From plasma televisions emblazoning the mirrored walls in the free-weight area, to the rows of cardio equipment outfitted with individual Cardio Theater units, Spa Bellagio caters to both the exerciser who desires to be entertained and informed or just wants to be left alone. But don't let the quietude of the fitness center fool you. Beyond the mirrored walls, on any given day, you can find the Bamboo Studio thumping to a group boxing class. Commandeered by certified boxing trainer Gary Biason, the room is transformed into an energetic circuit training class. Set up in stations that include instructor-student sparring, hang bags, jump rope and functional exercises, this 50-minute class is ideal for anyone looking for an intense workout or who just needs to release some aggression.

If you are looking for a break from the mayhem on the Strip, then Red Rock Resort (702.797.7878) is the ticket. Nestled at the foot of Red Rock Canyon, just a stone's throw away from the Vegas bedlam, is one of Nevada's newest resorts. While the 35,000-square-foot, ultra-modern spa is truly an oasis, it's the Adventure Fitness that makes Red Rock a must for the avid exerciser. With a plethora of outdoor activities to choose from, kayaking is the hands-down favorite of locals and visitors alike. Depending on the time of year, guests can choose from four tours, the most stunning being the Black Canyon Kayak tour. Offered all year, this guided tour begins at the bottom of Hoover Dam and provides an amazing view of the one of the world's modern wonders. Enjoy the splendor of Black Canyon and Emerald Cave as you paddle your way down the 11-mile stretch of the Colorado River to Willow Beach where you are greeted by the hotel shuttle that whisks you back to the plush milieu of Red Rock Resort.