There was a time when vacation was synonymous with over-indulging and lounging. Now more than ever, however, travellers want to return home feeling mentally and physically better than they did pre-vacation. The wellness travel trend was already gaining quick traction before the pandemic. The onset of COVID-19, however, inspired a collective interest for wellness and spa travel and the demand for wellness retreats has skyrocketed. From luxurious spas to peaceful yoga retreats, options for a rejuvenating vacation are found throughout the world. If you’re in the market for one yourself, here are 12 great options for luxury destination spas.
12 Best Luxury Destination Spas Around the World
1. COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali
Set in Bali’s lush tropical jungle, the award-winning COMO Shambhala Estate offers a range of world-class health and wellness programs, including yoga, fitness, meditation, immersive hikes, and Ayurvedic treatments (like outdoor massages). Accompanying this is a nutritious local cuisine. With its stunning location and amenities and luxurious, nature-surrounded villas, this sophisticated spot has all the ingredients of a rejuvenating vacation. Find more info here.
2. Bürgenstock Resort, Switzerland
Perhaps the most scenic destination spa is found nestled in Switzerland’s famous Alps. The stunning, five-star Bürgenstock Resort is located 1,476 feet above Lake Lucerne and has soul-soothing views to complement its vast array of peaceful spa services offered at its two sophisticated spas. The 10,000 square-metre Bürgenstock Alpine Spa offers five pools, multiple saunas, and a relaxation room. Meanwhile, the fresh air-filled Waldhotel Spa takes a “Healthy by Nature” approach. Find more info here.
3. Aro Ha, New Zealand
Set New Zealand’s Southern Alps, Aro Ha offers a variety of holistic wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, hiking, and a plant-based cuisine. Guests can choose from upcoming retreats, where they’re encouraged to turn off their tech and disconnect as they navigate the experience through both group and solo activities. Find more info here.
4. SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain
SHA Wellness Clinic is located on the beautiful coast of Spain and offers a range of detox, weight-loss, and anti-aging programs for guests to choose from. The clinic combines ancient Eastern wisdom with modern Western techniques to provide a holistic approach to wellness and was voted ‘World’s Best Wellness Clinic in 2022’ by the World Spa Awards. The sleek and modern facility features an infinity pool with endless views to calm the mind. Find more info here.
5. Canyon Ranch, Arizona
A pioneer in wellness travel, luxury wellness resort Canyon Ranch, Tucson is set in Arizona’s soul-soothing Sonoran Desert. The trailblazing and award-winning resort has been a go-to for wellness seekers for four decades and offers a long list of wellness programs, including yoga, fitness, meditation, nutrition and weight counselling, hiking, tennis, and close to 100 spa and beauty services – just to name a few. Find more info here.
6. The Ranch, California
Located in the picturesque Santa Monica Mountains just outside Malibu, California, The Ranch offers a rejuvenating seven-day program that includes hiking, yoga, guided exercise, weight-loss programs, and a plant-based diet packed with local California goodness. The award-winning destination spa is a go-to among health-conscious celebrities (no photos are allowed). Find more info here.
7. Como Uma Paro, Bhutan
The peaceful Como Uma Paro is a luxury retreat located in the heart of Bhutan’s beautiful Paro Valley, and is complete with sweeping views of the Himalayas. The retreat offers tailored itineraries and a range of wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, hiking excursions, mountain bathing, hot stone baths, massages, fitness, and holistic healing. Naturally, guests enjoy a local and organic cuisine. Find more info here.
8. Kamalaya, Thailand
A celebrated wellness retreat, Kamalaya is located on the beautiful island of Koh Samui in Thailand. The peaceful retreat features its own private beach and offers a range of grounding wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, detoxification, and holistic spa services. Front and centre at this sanctuary is the healing power of nature. Find more info here.
9. The BodyHoliday, Saint Lucia
Set in the Caribbean sunshine on the postcard-worthy island of Saint Lucia, The BodyHoliday is a luxurious all-inclusive resort that specializes in mental and physical wellbeing. Set on a pristine secluded beach, the retreat offers a range of top-tier wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, water sports, cycling, tennis, and full-service spa treatments. Find more info here.
10. Chiva-Som, Thailand
Located in the beautiful coastal town of Hua Hin in Thailand, luxury wellness retreat Chiva-Som offers a range of wellness programs, including yoga, meditation, and holistic healing. The peaceful beachfront paradise was voted ‘Top Destination Spa Resort in the World’ in Condé Nast Traveler 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Find more info here.
11. Melia Punta Cana Beach, Dominican Republic
The adults-only Wellness Inclusive program at the all-inclusive Melia Punta Cana offers wellness experiences and rituals, with five signature well spaces: social, silent, sensory, culinary, and personal. Guests can expect yoga, cycling, painting, sound healing, meditation, water sports, cooking classes, and fitness – all backed by the sound of crashing waves. Find more info here.
12. Mii amo, Arizona
Set in the stunning red rocks of Sedona, Arizona, the pristine Mii amo offers a soothing environment to refresh, with wellness programs that include yoga, fitness, scenic hiking and biking excursions, meditation, and an expansive selection of spa treatments. A wellness-focused culinary program is reflected everywhere from a juice bar to poolside dining. Find more info here.
So, if you’re in the market to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and rejuvenate, these luxury destination spas may be just the solution.
No Comments