The World’s Best Wellness Retreats To Book For A Relaxing Getaway
Summer is on our doorstep, so now is the perfect time to put yourself first and book in for one of the world’s best wellness retreats for a trip dedicated to meditation, relaxation and well-being. From sunrise yoga workshops in New Zealand to wild swimming in Somerset, here are our favourite wellness retreats.
MarBella, Corfu
Nestled on the south-eastern Corfu at Agios Ioannis Peristeron, the luxurious MarBella (part of the Mar-Bella Collection) offers guests stunning views of the breathtaking hillside and the sparkling Ionian Sea. This idyllic hotel is the perfect destination for those eager to explore a different part of Greece while savouring a tranquil getaway. Imagine gazing out at the ocean glistening beneath you, with clear days revealing mainland Greece beyond the boats and yachts bobbing on the water. The views are truly mesmerising, the perfect set-up for yoga on the beach and the array of water activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding, on offer. Guests also have complimentary access to yoga and pilates weeks, by OYOGO London, at MarBella’s sister property, Nido, next door.
While the highlight for kids is undoubtedly the water park, adults will be wowed by MarBella’s exceptional fitness and spa offering, designed to elevate your wellness journey. Fully equipped with a variety of facilities and treatments, the spa offers massages, manicures, facials, body treatments, a sauna and steam room. Despite its cosy size, the spa’s extensive menu of treatments, luxe SOTHYS products, and unwavering focus on wellness create a perfect hideaway. For those who prefer to keep moving on their trip, the on-site tennis court and scenic walking/running routes are just the ticket. Here, you can truly unwind and reset before returning to real life, making your holiday extra special and rejuvenating.
SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain
If sun-kissed shores, mountain-top views and infinity pools tick all of the right boxes for your wellness retreat dreams (how couldn’t they?), then you’ll want to check into SHA Wellness Clinic this 2024. Located in Alicante, Spain, the space has been crafted with wellness at centrefold, using natural therapies and healthy disciplines to encourage and help guests meet their goals.
They boast a whole range of health programmes, from rebalancing to detox sessions, and fitness regimes to healthy ageing. Programmes start from a minimum of four days and will see you learning new skills to manage your physical and mental well-being through personalised regimes.
Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, Santorini
Santorini in the summer is a tried-and-tested concept everyone loves, but this summer, how about taking your trip up a notch with a wellness-fueled journey in a stunning setting? Look at Andronis Concept Wellness Resort, the hotel home to luxe amenities, breathtaking views, and serene well-being possibilities.
This intimate setting is home to 28 pool suites and villas, which is perfect for a long lazy break under the Grecian sun. Here you’ll find the Kallos Spa, complete with beauty, grooming and health-enhancing treatments, each tailored to your personal needs. Try your hand at one of their hatha yoga classes, join a hike where you’ll enjoy a view of the Caldera, a volcanic cliff or simply relax with a holistic full body massage or treatment.
The Well, Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection, Costa Rica
One look at The Well in Costa Rica’s website and we instantly feel more relaxed. Just flicking through the photos of the resort is giving us serious FOMO, making us want to click the ‘book’ button.
The retreat specialises in holistic methods, offering specialist treatments, from the ancient Hierbas y Flore massage, a deep massage using freshly picked native herbs and flowers, to mindful movement programmes. The River Bath experience sounds totally irresistible, consisting of a four-hour journey as you immerse yourself in the sounds of nature while experiencing a massage and soaking in a riverside herbal bath.
Our Retreat, Somerset, UK
For a wellness retreat a little closer to home, look to Our Retreat in Somerset. Located on a secluded 17-bedroom farmhouse, this retreat will see you channel a slower pace of life as you switch off from the outside world and immerse yourself in the 42 acres of the surrounding countryside.
Their retreats include a two-night stay at the farmhouse and are filled with yoga workshops, afternoon pilates lessons, wild swimming and breath-work sessions. Each retreat includes meals and healthy snacks, guided walks around the scenic Somerset surroundings and evening bonfire nights.
Wanting to head further afield? Our Retreats also host retreats around the world, from Italy to Chamonix, Portugal to Marrakech.
Como Shambhala Estate, Bali
Bali’s Como Shambhala Estate is well worth the visit for those searching for the ultimate wellness experience. Their holistic, 360-degree approach is second to none, offering guests the chance to experience nature unlike ever before, as well as offering a chance to work on and better themselves.
Expect state-of-the-art facilities and stunning accommodations to take centre stage. The space specialises in yoga and pilates, so is perfect for those wanting to take their hobby to the next level. Book in here and you won’t ever want to leave.
Aro Hā, New Zealand
New Zealand’s Aro Hā retreat will see you fall deeper in love with nature than ever before. Surrounded by stunning scenery complete with glistening blue lakes and snow-capped mountains, the resort is completely stunning.
With bookable retreats every month, you’ll soon be spending your time downward dogging as the sun rises, hiking around the open space and connecting with like-minded individuals over nourishing healthy spreads. Who could resist a yoga workshop with a view like this anyway?
Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal
This Douro Valley escape is a Portuguese paradise. The country’s historic traditions come into play here, working alongside the elements of water, stone and wood to create a relaxing wellness sanctuary inside this world-renowned hotel.
Slip away to the spa and delve into a deeper relaxing state with the water facilities, from the underwater sound therapy and massage jets through to the indoor pool with sensational floor-to-ceiling views over the garden.
The team uses the finest tech to personalise your treatments, from wellness screenings and sleep upgrades to skin analysis and biohacking. You’ll also find regularly changing visiting practitioners offering the best services available.
Kamalaya Koh Samui, Thailand
Rooted in wellness, Kamalaya Koh Samui’s is the place to go to revive your mind, body and soul. It’s actually centred around a monk’s cave that’s said to have served Buddhist monks as a place of meditation and spiritual retreat, and the space brings this spiritually to life through their yoga and wellness practices.
Heading here is to disconnect from the outside world, escaping the chaos and welcoming a slower pace of life. There are over 50 certified wellness professionals, from doctors of traditional Chinese medicine to nutritionists, each helping you to slow down and adopt a new way of living.
Castle Hot Springs, Arizona USA
Tie your fascination with hot springs and your passion for wellness together with a visit to Castle Hot Springs. Located in the American state of Arizona, wellness is centrefold to the resort, offering a space to switch off and relax surrounded by hot springs.
Sink into the warming springs and detox your body with the natural waters, go on hikes across the desert or book in for a reiki treatment. For the yogis, it’s also well known for its daily yoga and meditation sessions. Re-energize your body with a yin yoga class or some vinyasa flow.
Tschuggen Grand Hotel, Switzerland
If you’ve always wanted to slip away to Switzerland, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel is a sweet slice of snow-capped heaven worth exploring. Their award-winning spa is defined by its architecture and original design. Designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta, alpine granite, handcrafted maple wood and Arosa rock complete the look.
Spread across four floors, each peeking window to the outside world comes cushioned with snowy mountains, with the treatments inside reflecting the stillness found in the surrounding area. Expect to find a whole host of treatments available, from detoxing body therapies to holistic massages.
Aman Amanemu, Japan
It’s hard not to completely lose yourself in the beauty of a stay at any of Aman’s global resorts but Aman Amanenu especially. Feeling like it’s been plucked straight from a movie, the resort is surrounded by the forested hills of Ise-Shima, away from prying eyes and home to mineral-rich hot springs, coastline and pilgrim trails.
Their dedicated wellness packages are not to be missed. Spend your day delighting in fresh foods, detoxing through yoga and purifying with a ninety-minute scrub and wrap.
Eleven Deplar Farm, Iceland
Known for their adventure vacations, Eleven Deplar Farm’s Icelandic location boasts an experience tailored specifically to this chilly country. Home to rugged beauty and breathtaking natural elements, guests are invited to connect with nature like never before.
Your experience will depend on the time of year you visit. Head here during the winter months and you’ll have a break fused with cross-country skiing and snowy excursions, while the summer months will see you wilderness wandering and sea kayaking. On-site, there are plenty of well-being-focused activities to try out, from sound healing sessions to geothermally heated pools with views over the Northern Lights.
Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa
The Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa spreads across an entire island. This stunning retreat, tucked away in the waters of the Indian Ocean, offers the perfect mix of luxury and wellness. Here, you’ll stay in gorgeous villas with incredible views of the lagoon. The on-site spa, Banni Spa, offers personalized treatments, yoga, meditation, and nutritional advice to help you relax and rejuvenate.
Their customized programs blend traditional spa treatments with modern wellness techniques to fit your unique needs. Plus, the retreat’s breathtaking views provide the perfect backdrop for healing and growth. You’ll leave Kagi not only feeling amazing but also with tips and practices to keep the good vibes going long after you get home (if you choose to go home, that is).
Hotel Byblos, Saint-Tropez
Hotel Byblos Saint-Tropez offers a luxury experience, inviting you to embark on a transformative journey from your head to your heart. This renowned retreat presents personalized, day-long experiences tailored to your preferences. Each “Epic Journey” is inspired by a natural element. One of which is the “Eaux Rêvées” water journey, featuring Turkish baths, a sauna, and cascading waterfalls, designed to put you completely at ease. Throughout your day, you’ll have a reserved sunbed on the tranquil Olivier terrace, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
For food, enjoy a menu of tasty dishes made with fresh produce from the hotel’s own vegetable garden. This gourmet touch ensures that your day of luxury and relaxation is also a feast for your senses. Count us in!
www.byblos.com
Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland
Nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne, Chenot Palace Weggis provides personalized, week-long retreats. The retreat follows the the Chenot Method, a preventative medical approach vitalizing human life for longer. Thousands of people—including Naomi Campbell, flock to the retreat to see if it is really true.
This retreat takes some real dedication. Guests are put on restrictive diets (850-calories) that promises to flush toxins out of the body and reduce inflammation. Additionally, guests are treated to hydrotherapy and energy treatments . The whole point is to reach the body’s inner harmony. Are you willing to give it a try?