One thing I’ve learned is that taking care of our mind and spirit is just as important as taking care of our physical body. Wellness retreats are becoming an increasingly popular choice for both couples and solo travelers to escape a busy lifestyle and find nourishment, relaxation and rejuvenation.
Whether you’re looking for a tailored wellness program or simply wish to sip a margarita poolside, let the stresses of life drift away as you preview my top 5 favourite wellness retreats around the world.
Hacienda del Sol
This all-inclusive wellness retreat is located 7 miles out of Nosara, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A magical place only accessible by dirt roads and in one of the largest Blue Zones of the world. If you haven’t heard of a Blue Zone before, they are geographic regions where people statistically live longer lives and have lower rates of chronic disease.
Hacienda de Sol has a number of different programs you can choose from but allow you a flexible schedule to enjoy the amenities of the centre. They offer twice daily yoga classes, jungle hikes, a weekly boat tour and a weekly cooking lesson.
The centre has a strong focus on farm to table dishes and grows much of their own food. Meats are locally sourced and the entire menu is gluten and dairy free. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry, there are loads of options for you too!
What I love most is that the meal times aren’t set. You can order when you’re hungry and everything is made fresh; no buffets here.
With only 12 bungalows and a maximum of 25 people, Hacienda del Sol is the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. The small size of the resort will curate a comfortable environment whether you are traveling alone or with others.
Sparkling Hill Resort
Nestled just outside of Kelowna, BC lies Sparkling Hill Resort; well named as there are over 3.5 million Swarovski crystal elements integrated throughout the resort.
It offers breathtaking mountain and ocean views, combining European inspired wellness and state of the art facilities.
Whether you are looking for just a couple nights away or a full 7-day retreat, Sparkling Hill Resort has a package for you. Devoted to providing an unforgettable stay, they offer a number of inclusions for all their guests.
Complimentary breakfast, valet and Wi-Fi is just a start. They also have eight steam rooms & saunas for every guest to enjoy, along with pools, tea room and a fitness studio.
To Note: Steam rooms and Saunas are currently closed due to COVID-19 precautions and the resort is strictly adults.
Five Elements Bali
Award winning Five Elements in Bali is set along the banks of the Ayung River. This peaceful sanctuary has an eco conscious, plant based focus with holistic Balinese-inspired therapies.
Their Signature Panca Mahabhuta (five elements) retreat is a great way to tune in with your physical, spiritual and emotional healing. It includes accommodations, meals, yoga and various spa treatments such as massages and body therapies.
Depending on your length of stay, other experiences available include a Fire Blessing Ritual, a Jungle River walk or even a full day Healing Journey.
This resort isn’t just for self-discovery. It’s a beautiful place to your start life with someone special. They have packages for proposals, weddings and honeymoons.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz
Part hotel, part medical center and part wellness retreat, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland has something for everyone.
The Medical Center has specialists in four key areas:
- Medical Rehabilitation
- Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
- Neurological Rehabilitation and,
- Oncological Rehabilitation
In the wellness area, treat yourself to six thermal baths, saunas and one of the many treatments at the spa such as the Tok-Sen massage which uses a combination of oil and tapping to release blockages.
Finally, if you are traveling with the family, there are activities for everyone. A family spa complete with slides, adventure showers and water games. They can also have fun at the KinderVilla while you relax the day away in the spa. The KinderVilla has a library, craft area, tv and games section and even a little kitchen where they can cook up some tasty delights, all under the watchful care of the staff.
Check out their Instagram Page here for more luxurious photos: www.instagram.com/resortragaz/
Golden Door
Named as Conde Nast Traveller’s #1 Spa in the world for 2019, the Golden Door is the ultimate destination spa.
They offer fully inclusive 7-night retreats for Women only, Men only and Co-Ed. However, rooms are designed for single occupancy only. The inclusions are extensive, from daily in room massage, workout and hiking gear and a fitness and spa program.
While you are relaxing on your wellness journey, you can feel even better knowing that you are part of a powerful change in the world. 100% of the net profits from Golden Door (including their skin care, artisanal foods and e-shop purchases) goes to organizations that transform the lives of children.
There are so many options when it comes to wellness retreats. Check out my Bucket List post on Azulik Resort for a unique destination to add to your list.
