30 Top Wellness Retreats Part 1

2019-12-23

Rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit at one of these relaxation-focused properties.7

From sunrise hikes to healing baths to yoga and meditation, these resorts offer ample ways to focus on your overall well-being.

As Americans continue to pay more attention to their personal wellness, they’re seeking fitness amenities, detoxes and stress relief on vacation. According to a 2019 report by the Global Wellness Institute, nearly 18% of Americans participate in mindful movement, or a combination of yoga, meditation and breathing exercises to promote emotional well-being. What’s more, a separate study conducted by global measurement and data analytics company Nielsen reports that 60% of Americans claim to make specific diet choices to prevent the development of health issues. If you’d like to immerse yourself in holistic wellness during your next vacation and return home feeling happier and healthier, visit one of these 30 health-conscious retreats.

Dunton Hot Springs: Dolores, Colorado

Strike gold at the quirky, rustic Dunton Hot Springs resort, which is located in an abandoned 1800s mining town about halfway between Telluride and Mesa Verde National Park. The property’s 13 luxurious cabins are cozy and comfortable, and all room rates cover meals and beverages. The resort’s natural hot springs – rich in calcium bicarbonate, iron, manganese and lithium – are said to improve circulation, promote energy and enhance skin health. Guests can soak outdoors at the source, in a variety of pools across the property or in the 19th-century bathhouse.

 

Sangha Retreat by Octave Institute: Suzhou, China

At Sangha Retreat by Octave Institute, guests can undergo a body-mind assessment to create a customized plan – which might include ayurvedic treatments or sound healing – or enroll in a goal-specific getaway during their stays. The At One Healing Spa’s hydrotherapy facility combines natural elements, such as water, light, heat, sound and energy, with the latest wellness technology to create a holistic experience. Plus, the property offers serene accommodations, a culinary program helmed by a two Michelin-starred chef and unique health therapies that blend traditional Chinese and Western medicines. Sangha Retreat sits on Yangcheng Lake about 50 miles northwest of Shanghai.

Rancho La Puerta: Tecate, Mexico

According to one past guest, Rancho La Puerta has the potential to change your entire approach to self-care. This ranch’s top-notch cuisine, attentive staff and highly regarded programs consistently exceed guests’ expectations. Founded in 1940, the serene property is nestled within a 4,000-acre preserve where guests can achieve wellness in nature. Self-healing is encouraged through use of medicinal plants and a meditation labyrinth, as well as participation in sunrise hikes, scheduled activities and eco-programs at a sustainable, organic farm. The property also provides free transportation every Saturday to and from San Diego International Airport, which is located about 45 miles northwest. Keep in mind, you will need a valid passport to cross the U.S.-Mexico border.

Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda: Gargnano, Italy

First-class therapies based on traditional Chinese medicine and Western science help guests achieve holistic well-being at Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda. Environmental mindfulness is another priority at this beautiful property on Italy’s Riviera dei Limoni, Lake Garda’s hilly western coastline dotted with lemon and olive trees. Spend your vacation at the nearly 41,000-square-foot Lefay SPA World, where you can enjoy beauty, massage or medical treatments that promote relaxation and inner harmony. Lefay Resort earns a five-star TripAdvisor rating for its excellent food, helpful staff and luxurious accommodations.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort: Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Become one with nature at this glamorous 25-tent resort on Vancouver Island. Accessible only by sea plane or boat from the small district of Tofino, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort covers an array of activities in its all-inclusive rates. The Relais & Châteaux-affiliated glamping spot offers everything from beekeeping to marine rehabilitation outings in the UNESCO-designated Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve. After a busy day outdoors, focus on personal wellness at the Healing Grounds Spa. The resort is open annually between May and September, when the weather is at its best. Recent travelers raved about the property’s mouthwatering cuisine and helpful staff, adding that the resort is a great place to disconnect from life’s daily stressors.

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa: Baden-Baden, Germany

Baden-Baden, a classic German spa town about 110 miles southwest of Frankfurt, was popularized by Napoleon III, and its historic Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa became the place to stay during his reign. Bathe in Baden-Baden’s renowned healing waters in various public baths, and be sure to book well in advance to enjoy the hotel’s array of weight loss, detox and medical programs. Guests can focus on beauty, nutrition, emotional balance and more at the adjacent House of Wellbeing. The property’s upscale rooms, lavish gardens and fine service earn it many five-star reviews, affirming Brenners’ status as a classic luxury escape that hasn’t lost its touch after almost 150 years in business.

Road Scholar Health & Wellness Retreats: U.S. and Canada

The not-for-profit tour operator Road Scholar offers approximately 5,500 escorted adult learning adventures each year. Sign up for one of the company’s Health & Wellness trips, which are relatively affordable and include traveling with 10 to 24 like-minded individuals. Travelers can opt for a six-day, no-frills New Hampshire retreat to learn about yoga and meditation; head to California to study Buddhism, prepare vegetarian cuisine and practice qi gong; or go behind the scenes to learn the latest Western and Eastern healing practices at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, among other experiences.

Four Seasons Hotel Lanai at Koele, A Sensei Retreat: Lanai City, Hawaii

Splurge on self-care in Hawaii, Americans’ most coveted destination, according to a 2019 MMGY Global research study. Tech billionaire Larry Ellison and renowned physician and author Dr. David Agus teamed up to found Lanai’s Sensei Retreats, where adults are guided through personal health journeys. During your stay, enjoy organic meals designed by Japanese celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, relax with massage and beauty treatments or partake in Hawaiian cultural activities, horseback riding, yoga and other excursions. The hilltop property also offers access to an adventure park and the Four Seasons Resort Lanai for water sports and golf.

Anantara Veli Maldives Resort: Veligandu, Maldives

After a speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, spend your days unwinding in an overwater bungalow while watching sunsets from the deck at the Anantara Veli Maldives Resort. Balance Wellness by Anantara is the brand’s signature program, and guests can enjoy surfing, relax with yoga or try cutting-edge cleansing treatments at the Cocoon Medical Spa. Past guests said the property’s attention to detail, such as providing snorkeling gear to view the sea life, made their pricey experience extra special. Another plus: Anantara Veli is one of the Maldives’ few adults-only resorts.

Miraval Austin: Austin, Texas

Throw a hatchet, participate in a cleansing ceremony, go hiking or try Tex Zen (a yoga class with country music playing in the background) at the newest branch of the famous Miraval resort brand. At this Hyatt-affiliated property about 20 miles northwest of downtown Austin, you’ll find 117 guest rooms and suites with balconies that overlook 220 tranquil acres of the Texas Hill Country. Miraval Austin’s various programs and facilities – including an equine center – promote life in balance by connecting activities to your intentions. Nightly rates include all on-site activities and meals, but keep in mind that tipping is not permitted and alcohol costs extra.

Courtesy of USNews