When life feels nonstop and your to-do list never ends, the idea of pressing pause and escaping to a wellness retreat sounds like pure bliss. With so many options out there—from beachfront sanctuaries to mountain hideaways—it can be hard to know where to begin. A recent team chat about dream destinations (sparked by John, who's currently soaking up the serene beauty of the Maldives—yes, we’re all a little jealous) got us thinking: how can we bring more relaxation into your future escapes? If you're dreaming of your own rejuvenating getaway, here are five key things to consider when choosing the perfect wellness retreat hotel.
1. Conquer Stress
Many retreats now, provide real tools for navigating life’s stressors—like movement, mindset coaching, or sleep optimization—so the benefits last long after you return home.
Our top pick: Six Senses Douro Valley – Portugal
This serene sanctuary offers a deeply personalized wellness screening followed by tailored programs, from stress recovery to energy balancing. Daily yoga, forest bathing, and sleep support complete the experience.
2. Techniques to Stay Calm
Your breath is your built-in reset button. Some retreats offer guidance on intentional breathwork, which can help regulate your nervous system.
Our top pick: SHA Wellness Clinic – Alicante, Spain
This pioneering medi-spa blends Eastern and Western wellness approaches with a clinical edge. Their advanced emotional wellness program includes private breathwork, meditation, and stress-reduction coaching—all in a stunning Mediterranean setting.
3. Sip, Savor, Refresh
Food is fuel. Not a detox punishment. And as foodies we think finding retreats that prioritize delicious, nourishing, locally sourced meals is crucial to an amazing experience.
Our top pick: Palazzo Fiuggi – Fiuggi, Italy
Combining cutting-edge wellness with gourmet, science-backed cuisine, their “Food Line” program offers locally sourced, nutrient-rich meals that support detox, longevity, and vitality. Sip herbal infusions and refresh your relationship with food—no deprivation required.
4. Space to Just Be
The best retreats know that healing happens in the pause. Seek spaces that offer downtime, unstructured rest, and serene surroundings where doing "nothing" is celebrated.
Our top pick: Amanoi - Vinh Hy Bay, Vietnam
Set between a national park and a peaceful bay, Amanoi offers silence, seclusion, and deep tranquility. With open-air pavilions, floating spa treatments, and private villas, it’s a haven for soulful stillness.
5. Discover Joy
Wellness isn’t just about stillness—sometimes joy is the medicine. Seek out retreats that encourage fun, exploration, creativity, and awe.
Our top pick: Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa – Rancho Santa Fe, California
This Southern California sanctuary makes joy effortless—think open-air yoga, vibrant gardens, tennis under the sun, and fresh, seasonal cuisine. With space to move, play, and unwind, it’s the perfect place to rediscover what lights you up.
Whether you're seeking calm, clarity, joy—or all of the above—we'll match you with the perfect retreat. Let’s create something truly restorative.
Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.