Morning everyone, hope you’re all well. It’s been a tough week emotionally. Last Thursday would have been Thumper’s (my late rabbit) birthday. I didn’t actually get him until a few months later when he was 12 weeks old, and his date of birth is actually unknown, but we managed to work out a rough estimation of when it was. He would of been 10 this year, but I managed to have 5-fun-filled years with him before he passed away. Speaking of the number 10 and another day being emotionally tough, yesterday sadly marked the ten year anniversary of my Grandad’s passing, he was a beer-loving (like Homer Simpson his favourite cartoon character funnily enough), puzzle-solving, barbecue master, and wind-up merchant! Who was sadly and unexpectedly took from us far too soon. In other news, my blood test results came back last week and showed that I’m low in Vitamin D, so my Doctor prescribed me some tablets which the chemist screwed up and gave me another lot of my anti-depressants instead, so we had to get that sorted out quickly as the Doctor wants me to have more bloods taken. Something good did happen though, we had a video call with my sister and nephew which was an unexpected but nice surprise, we’re hopefully going to be visiting them within the next week or so, as long as nothing comes up (i.e. falling ill, car problems etc…)!
On with this week’s post…Thus far, the 2020s have been, in a word: tough. The relentless stress of an ever-evolving global pandemic, political upheaval, climate change, and, well, you name it, has had us all pulling our proverbial hair out. But the dawning of a new year presents an opportunity to reflect, recalibrate, restore our tired bodies and frazzled minds and, dare we say it, relax. Whether you’re looking for deep cleanses amid the snowy peaks of New Zealand, massages in the Maldives and Saint Lucia, or spa therapy in Saint Lucia, here are some of the best rejuvenation hotspots the world has to offer.
Everyone deserves to feel healthy and alive. You are no different. Whether you feel overworked or just in need of a week or two to slow down, unplug, and focus on your wellbeing, a wellness retreat is just what you need. “Wellness” now goes beyond skin deep — offering to not only relax and restore, but fully level up your mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellbeing. Sure, a great massage or facial will never go out of style—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle in keeping our minds as well cared for as our bodies. Long walks out in nature and arts and crafts sessions can be just as restorative as a punishing workout, and a nourishing meal might be just what the doctor ordered. Although travel can still prove to be tumultuous, be optimistic about the future and believe that your wellbeing holds paramount. Whether you are a newfound spiritual junkie, in search of a transcendental self discovery journey, a science-driven health enthusiast looking to fine-tune your biohacking, or you’re simply looking for a digital detox on a beach to disconnect and reconnect, or you’re into hiking or yoga, or just need a nap-inducing Swedish massage, book one of these wellness retreats to rejuvenate both mind and body.
COMO Parrot Cay — Turks and Caicos
It’s hard to imagine anything more reinvigorating than a few days at this health-centric resort, huddled away on its own private island in the Caribbean. Stay in one of their rooms, suites or villas — right at the edge of the island’s white sands. Guests can take full advantage of the brand’s wellness program, COMO Shambhala, which promotes good health through such offerings as enzyme-rich cuisine, a medley of fresh and creative courses like zucchini carpaccio and pineapple sundaes; complimentary yoga and pilates classes (the yoga retreats offered throughout the year are led by a rotating cast of characters, including yogi superstars the Curry Sisters); and holistic therapies, including reflexology and Ayurveda. For those who are a little more adventurous, the resort will also coordinate fishing and diving trips; biking excursions on larger, nearby islands; windsurfing lessons, and more. With over 1,000 acres of wilderness to explore, staying at COMO Parrot Cay feels like you’ve got your very own private island.
For more info click >Here<
Naviva, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita — Mexico
Welcome to Naviva, an unspoiled nature retreat featuring just 15 luxury tents nestled amidst 20 hectares (48 acres) of forest overlooking the Pacific Ocean – right next to the legendary Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. The name of the game at this tented camp outside of Puerto Vallarta is “biophilic design,” which is all about the healing power of dropping guests directly into nature: That means each open-air tent comes with an outdoor shower, plunge pool, and hammock, perfect for taking in the surrounding 48 acres of jungle. Inspired by the shape of ceiba tree seeds, the two “spa pods” include their own personal gardens and timber soaking tubs, while the temazcal (a pre-Hispanic sweat lodge) is the place where mindfulness meets mysticism as you’re guided by a healer, or curandero. During your time out there, you might hike to the Aztatlán ruins, partake in a cliffside yoga class, or sample “seacuterie” made from the bounty of the nearby Pacific. The Naviva experience blurs the lines of formality and amplifies community, creating an authentic environment that fosters personal growth and learning. Where nature and life intersect, you’ll discover Naviva.
For more info click >Here<
Aro Hā – New Zealand
Surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps, Aro Hā says it has a simple kaupapa, or purpose: to regenerate the mind and body. It doesn’t come easy though – guests are expected to cut ties with alcohol, caffeine and cigarettes before arriving for their wellness journey. Days at Aro Hā start with the chiming of Tibetan bowls, dynamic Flow Yoga against the backdrop of the rising sun and a breakfast of carrot loaf with an apple butter and berry coulis, all sourced from the resort’s garden. To keep up the mind, body and spirit cleanse, the kitchen is plant-based with an emphasis on garden-to-table. Fitness is just as key, so enjoying a subalpine hike around the region before some spa time and a therapeutic massage is highly recommended.
For more info click >Here<
Lake Austin Spa Resort — Texas
The gift of time to focus on you. A stay at Lake Austin Spa Resort may just ruin you for good. Once you get a taste of its organic garden’s fresh bounty, which the resort uses in its seasonally influenced offerings, your regular store-bought veggies probably won’t cut it. Breathe in the picturesque surroundings of nature and the organic wild water landscape. Enveloped by preserve-land and the natural, pure waters of Lake Austin, you will be naturally inspired to a healthier, more relaxed version of yourself. Whether you’re in search of the ultimate self-care getaway, or something more specific—like a special occasion, couple’s trip, or time to embrace life change —our all-inclusive, adults-only lakeside oasis is the perfect retreat for mind, body, and soul. Guests also rave about the retreat’s Culinary Experience program, which sees celebrity chefs invited in to whip up dinner and teach guests a lesson in DIY gourmet meals. If you can manage to set down your fork for a minute, you’ll be richly rewarded: The resort’s 25,000-square-foot Lake House Spa offers more than 100 massage, body, and skincare treatments and therapies, which you can enjoy from the comfort of an outdoor garden cabana or a screened-in veranda, Both day and resort guests are welcome to explore the world’s best ancient and modern spa treatments, soothing and reviving, and to enjoy our one-of-a-kind oasis, just 30 minutes from downtown Austin, including private suites perfect for couples, serene swimming pools, and the Lake House Spa’s elegant indoor/outdoor Aster Café.
For more info click >Here<
Como Shambhala Estate – Bali
Surrounded by lush tropical jungle, Como Shambhala Estate in Bali is an award winning, luxury resort. Magnificent residences and villas with private pools provide top quality comfort and relaxation. Focused on a holistic, 360 degree approach to wellness, COMO Shambhala Estate provides a state-of-the-art gym, relaxing massage therapies and a multitude of outdoor activities. The level of care and attention from the trained staff is unparalleled, with a dedicated Ayurvedic Doctor, oriental medicine expert consultant, certified yoga teacher, certified Pilates and personal instructor and nutritionist, you will be sure to be well looked after during your stay. A local spring, believed to have healing properties, provides water for the Estate, the treatment Centre and the Vitality pool. Guests will enjoy the hidden water gardens and the fantastic scenery of this unique location. A wellness escape to this secluded Bali resort is a truly unforgettable experience. Select from a number of tailor-made wellness programs to suit your specific needs, from detox to fitness.
For more info click >Here<
BodyHoliday – Saint Lucia
Welcome to a one-of-a-kind resort designed to provide the most relaxing and rejuvenating wellness holiday in Saint Lucia. An idyllic Caribbean Sea setting among powder sand beaches and tropical rainforests bolsters confidence in BodyHoliday’s promise: “Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind.” They offer a generous all-inclusive experience that includes a daily spa treatment every full day of your stay and virtually endless options in classes, adventure programs and sports, and more. There, you can do as much, or a little, as you like. Curate your ideal Caribbean getaway with our digital pre-arrival concierge and personalisation tool via the Online Webroom or APP. Depending on the program, guests can spend their entire stay doing yoga or exploring the island with thrilling activities such as scuba diving and archery. There’s also a Wellness Center complete with a skin clinic, that boasts “restorative beauty” among its other spa and therapy treatments. Popular with guests is the “Serenity Massage,” a Swedish technique using a special blend of oils to help with breathing and sleeping, alongside Ayurvedic principles.
For more info click >Here<
Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa — Ainsworth Hot Springs, British Columbia
You might be on vacation—but there’s no reason you can’t throw some self-improvement in the mix, too. At Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat Resort & Health Spa’s British Columbia outpost, you won’t lament the week-long cheat day vacation that could’ve been. Instead, you and about 15 other hyper-stressed vacationers will embrace the granola life for a little while, with day-long hikes led by one of the eager local guides, and sunrise yoga classes led by certified professionals. Everything is targeted toward achieving optimal health and wellness, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be shoving kale down your throat, or scraping bark off the nearest tree to kill the hunger pangs. Quite the contrary: food is locally sourced, and menus are shaped by the on-site nutritionist, who works in cahoots with the experienced head chef, who’s fluent in clean, fresh spa cuisine, with lemon ricotta pancakes just one of the many fan favorites. *A word of caution for coffee chuggers, though: beans are out, and leaves—for tea, that is—are in.* Melt stress away, restore energy levels, burn fat, purge toxins, and return home revitalized (clear in body and mind), recharged, and years younger than when you arrived.
For more info click >Here<
Lefay Resort & Spa, Lake Garda – Italy
Since the very beginning, the aim of the Lefay SPA Method has been to fully restore the balance between body, mind and spirit through the search for conscious health, taking care of the body in a responsible, natural and healthy way every day. Sitting on 27 acres of rolling hills dotted with forests and olive groves, Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda is located in Gargnano, Italy, on Lake Garda’s so-called Lemon Riviera. Overlooking the water, the completely sustainable 96-room resort was constructed with natural materials and clad in Italian marble and olive wood. Of course, several of the resort’s pools, including the Fonte Roccolino whirlpool, also offer views of the stunning natural setting. Here, guests can choose from seven different types of saunas for detoxing, followed by time in six relaxation zones, among other wellness treatments and offerings. The treatments aim to reactivate energy channels as well as rebalance the energy of body and mind, and are personalized according to the individual psycho-physical state. They have been developed by combining the principles of Classical Chinese Medicine with Western techniques. They combine traditional massage techniques with the stimulation of “points and meridians” that activate the “energy” function, thus ensuring a deep and long-lasting result. This method enhances the effects of a traditional massage, because the body receives an “energy message” which will be remembered and elaborated over time.
For more info click >Here<
Six Senses Douro Valley – Portugal
Located among vineyards and acres of rolling hills, Six Senses Douro Valley, which is set in a restored 19th century manor, is the ultimate hideaway in nature to focus on your wellness and maintain or restore your health. Escape the stresses of daily life and let the mind and body wind down. Enjoy far-reaching vistas across the Douro River during your yoga class or on long walks as you explore the forest nearby. Guests can choose between four wellness programs, such as Sleep & Resilience, Cleanse & Detox, Trim & Fit, and Full Potential, and each retreat starts with a wellness screening and is then personalized. The vast range of therapies includes spa treatments, movement, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, as well as holistic sessions with healers and wellness specialists. Foodies are also in for a treat. All Six Senses Spas use locally sourced ingredients, and Six Senses Douro Valley is no exception. It has a large organic herb and vegetable garden, which guests can visit. The expert-led wellness retreats are designed to provide much-needed space to reconnect with your inner peace and thrive when you’re back in the outer world. From immunity, longevity and yoga to self-discovery, your day will immerse you into guided activities, therapies and workshops. Time will slow down until you begin to feel the joy bubbling up again from your toes.
For more info click >Here<
SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante – Spain
Where the European set goes to get their detox on. Center your mind and body while vacationing on Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca. SHA Wellness’s three prong wellness approach—a blend of holistic therapies, fitness plans, and medicine —provides the framework for your bespoke wellness experience. If you know what you are looking for, SHA also provides specific wellness programs for weight loss, stress-relief, fitness training, and more. Between personal training sessions and cardio-tone circuits, treat your body to groundbreaking therapies like underwater massages and electro-lymphatic drainage, and nourish with healthy Mediterranean cuisine. Everything from Chinese medicine and Thai massage to cosmetic dentistry and stem cell therapy is on offer here and dotted around the clinic are anti-ageing, Energy Health and Regenerative Medicine units. The wellness area offers a plethora of facials and a whole range of massages, body treatments and water therapies. If you fancy a dip there’s a stunning outdoor rooftop pool and the wellness area boasts a complete hydrotherapy circuit with two indoor pools. Rooftop relaxation areas with day beds allow you to take in the spectacular views or hunker down with a novel.
For more info click >Here<
Joali Being – Maldives
Nestled on the secluded island of Bodufushi in Raa Atoll, amid crystalline lagoons, pristine beaches and lush coconut palms, JOALI BEING is a 40-minute seaplane journey from Malé International Airport. With 68 villas, each with its own butler or “Jadugar”, they are the region’s first wellbeing island of its kind. Surrounded by soft sands and the ocean breeze, this island wellbeing resort centers around the concept of “weightlessness.” No laws of gravity are broken, though; at Joali Being, that means delivering a sense of freedom. The resort says it mixes modern science with ancient healing arts to give a stay inspired by its four pillars of wellbeing: mind, microbiome, energy and skin. On offer are programs tailored to rebalance guests’ wellness, including the Abhyanga full body massage to therapies in the refreshing waters of resort’s Hydrotherapy Hall. And for drinks? There are over 60 types of organic tea available at the tea lounge, Sai, for guests to sip away at and, hopefully, feel that weightlessness.
For more info click >Here<
Cinq Mondes Spa, Raffles The Palm – Dubai
If you’re looking for mind and body rejuvenation, this is a one of a kind wellness destination. Looking out across a stunning 500m private beach of golden sand, fringed with pristine aquamarine waters, this resort offers a uniquely holistic hospitality experience that bridges the gap between tradition and vibrant 21st-century luxury. Your sense of wellbeing at Raffles The Palm Dubai is their highest priority. The thoughtfully designed 3,000sq ft. Cinq Mondes Spa has an unparalleled approach to health, beauty and wellbeing. If you’re looking to find balance, you can count on the expert hands of the practitioners and specialists of time-honored practices such as Ayurveda and Shiatsu. Among the innovative and immersive treatments available is KO BI DO, a traditional form of Japanese massage combined with aesthetic care that delivers powerful anti-ageing results. Reconnect with yourself in the holistic spa; enjoy treatments, hammams, a state-of-the-art gym, a private yoga studio and exercise facilities. Located in the heart of the property, guests of Cinq Mondes’ will have a choice of 23 treatment rooms, two private spa suites and a stunning indoor swimming pool to enjoy. Guests are also invited to explore the two majestic Hammams alongside the fully equipped gym and yoga studio.
For more info click >Here<
The Retreat Hotel at Blue Lagoon -Norðurljósavegur, Iceland
The Retreat at Blue Lagoon Iceland is an award-winning luxury resort encompassing a 60-suite hotel, a subterranean spa, Michelin-starred dining, and a private lagoon sourced from the same healing waters as the Blue Lagoon. Elevate your Blue Lagoon journey with private experiences that take the mind, body, and spirit to new dimensions of radiant wellbeing. Based on the principles of hatha yoga, vinyasa yoga, and ashtanga vinyasa, this 60 minute guided session integrates asana, alignment, and breathwork, transitioning from one pose to another in gentle and fluid movements. Bringing balance and harmony to your mind and body, it is suitable for all practitioners, from beginners to masters, and can be modified according to your needs. The Retreat’s in-house personal trainer will lead you through a physically nourishing routine of bodyweight exercises and deep stretches calibrated to relieve and revitalize sore, tender, and tired muscles. The combination of calisthenics and flexibility training creates a multifaceted workout with a multitude of benefits.
Simple. Strenuous. Supremely satisfying.
For more info click >Here<
VIVAMAYR Altaussee – Austria
VIVAMAYR Altaussee is one of the world’s leading detox retreats and sits in an idyllic location directly on the shores of Lake Altaussee – a place naturally blessed for re-discovering your inner self. The house marries the comforts of a 5* hotel, with a state-of-the-art medical centre. All 60 rooms come with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains of the Styrian Salzkammergut region. Programmes are based on the principles of Modern Mayr Medicine. Each guest receives a medical check-up with a doctor on arrival, then a tailored regime of exercise, diet and treatments is prescribed. Focusing on re-activating the body’s self-healing powers and restoring energy levels, VIVAMAYR’s goal is to achieve a sustainable change of lifestyle, both preserving guests’ health and preventing the onset of diseases in the future. A big part of the Mayr Cure is gut health, and mornings begin with a tonic of warm water mixed with local salt from the Altaussee Salt Mine to cleanse the gut. There’s no getting away from the fact that food is sparse, but the morsels you do get are delicious – so much so that you happily chew away on them at least 30 times as recommended by the doctors. Treatments include everything from colon cleansing to nasal reflex therapy. Days are spent gliding between treatment rooms, fitness and yoga classes, strolling by the lake or just relaxing and taking in the views.The Mayr Cure can be challenging – but after three days you’ll start to feel the benefit and by the end of the week, you’ll feel like you’ve had a complete mind and body MOT.
For more info click >Here<
Mandarin Oriental-Marrakech
Lying in 20 hectares of fragrant gardens and olive groves, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is a five-star luxury resort only minutes from the city centre. With excellent facilities, world-class dining and state-of-the-art spa and wellness facilities, it makes for a tranquil and luxurious escape. With the snow-capped Atlas Mountains forming a breathtaking backdrop, Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is surrounded by majestic gardens filled with olive trees and more than 100,000 fragrant roses. The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech is spread over 1,800 m2 and features six spa suites including one for couples. Each suite has a terrace and private garden for outdoor treatments. The Spa also includes two luxurious hammams, an indoor heated pool, a fitness centre and a yoga studio, as well as hair and beauty salons. Inspired by ancient traditions and designed for guests personal needs, unique treatments have been created to bring equilibrium to the mind, body and spirit. Treatments range from traditional Asian and Moroccan rituals and scrub and wraps to oxygen facials and high-end anti-ageing treatments. Villas at Mandarin Oriental Marrakech are some of the best in the world – each sporting a private pool, steam room, hot tub and outdoor shower. Surrounded by a private garden, these uber-luxe living spaces also feature outdoor dining. The resorts Detox Programme includes a luxury stay in private villa or suite, a tailored fitness programme, a meditation class, yoga classes, a PT session, an invigorating Hammam, cookery classes, and a daily healthy menu plan with detox drinks.
For more info click >Here<
Before embarking on your retreat, take some time to reflect on your goals and intentions. What do you hope to gain from the retreat? Whether it’s stress reduction, personal growth, or improved fitness, having clear goals will guide your choices and help you make the most of the available activities. Now’s the time to put yourself first and book in for one of the world’s best wellness retreats for a long weekend or even longer dedicated to meditation, relaxation and well-being.
Thank you for visiting my blog and reading today’s post, I hope you all have a lovely week and I shall see you next time!
Peytons View 