14 Wellness Retreats for the Ultimate Stress-Free Vacation

Photo Credit: Grand Velas Los Cabos

Photo Credit: Grand Velas Los Cabos

It’s a new year and that means it’s time to shake off the bad vibes of 2020 and start anew. When you’re feeling comfortable enough to travel again, plan your next vacation to a luxury hotel or resort to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit.  

Kickstart your year of wellness right with a stay at one of these luxurious properties from Tucson to Tuscany. Pamper yourself with natural body treatments; indulge in exquisitely prepared farm-to-table meals; set a course for healthier choices and participate in on-site nutrition workshops. Watch the stress melt away on a luxury wellness vacation – a welcomed travel experience you can have anytime during the year. 

 

Photo Credit: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Photo Credit: Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Riviera Maya, Mexico)

This sanctuary for the senses and all-villa resort provides guests with a joyful atmosphere to restart. Mayakoba means “village over water,” and true to the resort’s name, it is surrounded by lagoons, mangroves and bordered by the sea. Located on the Riviera Maya’s idyllic coastline, Banyan Tree Mayakoba’s award-winning luxury spa offers signature massage therapies with Eastern and Western techniques; a collection of hydrothermal facilities; and refreshing beauty treatments, including an herbal bath soak with champagne.  

 

Photo Credit: Borgo Pignano

Photo Credit: Borgo Pignano

Borgo Pignano (Pisa, Italy)

Located in the heart of Tuscany, this exclusive tranquil estate with enchanting gardens will seduce guests with its up-scale amenities and activities. Go for a swim in the heated infinity pool; take a horseback ride along the woodland paths; make honey with the local beekeeper; and create scented soaps in the Herbal Lab. Borgo Pignano’s wellness area combines elements of the estate’s philosophy – which includes history, nature, health and relaxation – all set within a beautifully designed and elegant spa. Artists and art aficionados will also enjoy the Pignano Art Gallery, which offers a contemplative environment for artists to exhibit their work and the opportunity for hotel guests to view exceptional art during their stay. 

 

Photo Credit: Canyon Ranch Lenox

Photo Credit: Canyon Ranch Lenox

Canyon Ranch Lenox (Lenox, Massachusetts)

This resort touts itself as being more than “a day at the spa,” and that a stay here “changes lives.” It may be because Canyon Ranch Lenox offer its guests integrated health and wellness in a natural setting. Located in the Berkshires, guests have access to a menu of daily fitness and mind-body classes, guided hikes & bike rides, indoor tennis, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, croquet, a High Ropes Course, and more! In addition to on-site healthy food options and top-notched facilities, guests can create a program to fine-tune their health and restore their well-being with help from the resort’s team of doctors, trainers, nutritionists, therapists and exercise psychologist. Planning a trip to Arizona? Consider staying at the Canyon Ranch Tucson.

 

Photo Credit: Carlton Hotel St. Moritz

Photo Credit: Carlton Hotel St. Moritz

Carlton Hotel St. Moritz  (St. Moritz, Switzerland)

Guests at the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz will enjoy staying at this boutique hotel with jaw-dropping views of Lake Moritz and the Swiss Alps. Enjoy the power of the mountains as they envelop you with their silence: the quiet of the mountain wind, the distant views of the rising sun, and the peaceful atmosphere of dusk in the evening hours. Unwind at the Carlton Spa equipped with an indoor and outdoor pool and a spacious spa area. The Organic Pharmacy offers treatments, such as the Swiss Body Detox, Green Coffee Body Sculpting, and the Vitamin C and Papaya Enzyme Peel Facial – using a combination of all-natural ingredients and expert therapists to ensure each treatment’s long-term results. If you’re visiting Zurich, consider an hour drive to stay at the Waldhotel Health & Medical Excellence in Obburgen.

 

Photo Credit: Falisia Resort & Spa

Photo Credit: Falisia Resort & Spa

Falisia Resort & Spa (Portopiccolo, Italy)

This exclusive luxury resort sits on the private bay of the idyllic Adriatic coast. The Italian Riviera is the perfect location for a couple looking for a peaceful and romantic break. For relaxation, Falisia has a private beach club with infinity pool, and a dedicated wellness and fitness area. In addition to offering a holistic, natural approach to the most advanced medical surgery, the Portopiccolo Beauty Spa by Bakel offers natural therapies in the gardens of Trieste. Dr. Raffaella Gregoris, one of the leading natural skincare experts in Italy, owns Bakel; so, get ready for an unforgettable wellness retreat.

 

Photo Credit: Grand Velas Los Cabos

Photo Credit: Grand Velas Los Cabos

Grand Velas Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico)

From stunning architecture and Mexican art to breathtaking ocean views, Grand Velas Los Cabos has something for all its guests. Find out why Forbes calls this resort’s 35,000 square foot SE Spa an “aquatic paradise.” All treatments incorporate the latest technology and are infused with locally-sourced Mexican healing essentials. Guests can lose themselves in a 7-step water ceremony that’s included in every treatment; feel refreshed after a blue agave signature massage; and participate in a series of educational workshops from master facials to aromatherapy for couples. Surrender to paradise at this luxury wellness retreat. Grand Velas Riviera MayaGrand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Viceroy Los Cabos are alternate properties to consider when planning your wellness retreat in Mexico.

 

Photo Credit: Royal Mansour Marrakech

Photo Credit: Royal Mansour Marrakech

Royal Mansour Marrakech (Marrakech, Morocco)

Guests at the Royal Mansour Marrakech experience the care and attention from a 550-member team that provides authentic Moroccan hospitality with a touch of world-class glamour. Stay in a traditional Riad in Marrakech with access to amenities, including Michelin-Star Chef Yannick Alleno’s four on-site restaurants, a 5-acre lush garden and your personal butler that tends to your needs during your stay. Experience an immersive Moroccan experience at the Royal Mansour Spa. The hammam provides guests with traditional treatments such as a gentle exfoliation, ceremonial massage, ghassoul wrap and floral water sprays. Guests have access to an array of head-to-toe treatments.

  

Photo Credit: Rosewood Phuket

Photo Credit: Rosewood Phuket

Rosewood Phuket  (Phuket, Thailand)

Nestled along 1,968-feet of sun-drenched coastline at Emerald Bay, this secluded beach hideaway exudes a harmonious celebration of luxury island living in Phuket. Guests can stay in one of 71 pavilions or villas with a private pool surrounded by serene sea views. Located within 43.5 acres of beachfront gardens, an integrated wellness concept where guests discover their true path to personal healing. A fitness center, events space, explorer club and beachside pools are other notable amenities. Asaya, the wellness resort, offers a full range of signature treatments and alternative therapies built on the foundation of your well-being. Rosewood Phuket’s holistic wellness concept flows through all aspects of the resort, whether that’s by maintaining your workout or by simply relaxing near the beachfront pool.

 

Photo Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

Photo Credit: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa (Tucson, Arizona)

In the warm shade of the Santa Catalina Mountains, the 400-acre Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa is dedicated to opening eyes, minds and hearts. Take part in unlimited opportunities to reflect, learn and grow from self-discovery activities, an array of fitness offerings, well-being lectures & cooking classes, or wind down with spa services to unleash your senses. At Miraval, it’s not just about taking a break, it’s a full mind, body and lifestyle retreat where the benefits linger long after guests check out. Consider staying at the Miraval Austin when visiting quirky Austin, Texas.

 

Photo Credit: Omni La Costa Resort and Spa

Photo Credit: Omni La Costa Resort and Spa

Omni La Costa Resort and Spa (Carlsbad, California)

Condé Nast Traveler readers voted this rejuvenation haven as one of the ‘Top Resorts in Southern California.’ Enjoy a stress-free escape at the Omni La Costa Resort and Spa, nestled  among 400 acres of lush gardens near the beach in Carlsbad. Take your pick from over 600 spacious guest rooms, suites and villas, and let your vacation in paradise unfold. All guests have access to the Athletic Club, a state-of-the-art fitness facility with Star Trac equipment and a variety of exercise classes. Guests also have access to the PFC Fitness Camp, a choice if you’re looking for a long-term fitness regimen or personalized weight-loss programs. And in addition to an adults-only pool, the award-winning Spa at La Costa features stress-relieving massages and meditation sessions at The Chopra Center. 

 

Photo Credit: La Cantera Resort & Spa

Photo Credit: La Cantera Resort & Spa

La Cantera Resort & Spa (San Antonio, Texas)

Located atop one of the highest points in all of San Antonio, La Cantera Resort & Spa is the place to be if you’re looking for peace and tranquility. Play a game of golf on its two championship courses with scenic views of the Texas Hill Country, or take golf lessons at the Golf Academy. Visit Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness, a secluded sanctuary that offers traditional spa treatments, signature experiences indigenous to the area, and results-oriented services that integrate technology and nature to balance your well-being. Find out why Condé Nast Traveler readers voted it the ‘Top Resort in the Southwest & Texas.’  

 

Photo Credit: Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda

Photo Credit: Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda

Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda (Gargnano, Italy)

This 5-star luxury resort on Lake Garda spreads out across more than 27 acres of natural park, surrounded by hills, natural terraces and olive groves. Guests have access to the 12,467 square- foot spa, where body and soul are rejuvenated. The Lefay Spa Scientific Committee created an innovative wellness method that stems from the blending of Classical Chinese Medicine with Western scientific research. The goal is to achieve complete mental and physical wellness with various objectives linked to weight, relieving stress, getting into better physical shape, treating sleep issues, combating the signs of aging, and detoxifying the body. Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda also incorporates the farm-to-table cuisine at its restaurants to foster healthy eating choices.

  

Photo Credit: Spruce Peak

Photo Credit: Spruce Peak

The Lodge at Spruce Peak (Stowe, Vermont)

For this wellness retreat, travelers will have to head to the tallest peak in Vermont. This luxury ski-in/ski-out four-season mountain resort features a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and a 36-hole mountainside golf course. In addition to dozens of activities to keep guests fit, Spruce Peak is also home to an expansive Spa and Wellness Center, complete with views of Mount Mansfield. Experience relaxation with signature treatments. Harness the goodness of nature in the Healing Lodge or 18 private treatment rooms. Indulge in self-care with amenities such as Jacuzzi hot tubs and a soothing spa sanctuary lounge. The Lodge has received awards and accolades from Trip Advisor, US News & World ReportCondé Nast Traveler, and more. Plan your next vacation to experience true alpine bliss.

  

Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa

Photo Credit: Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa (Scottsdale, Arizona)

Located on Camelback Mountain in Arizona, this Scottsdale luxury resort is 53 acres of private paradise. In addition to breathtaking panoramic views, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa offers guests an intimate retreat with farm-fresh American cuisine, changing monthly to reflect the seasonal harvests. The Sanctuary Spa features a menu of Asian-inspired treatments (e.g., Zen Shiatsu treatment, Reiki treatment, and Thai massage) in 12 indoor and outdoor treatment rooms. The Spa also features a relaxing meditation garden, reflecting pond, a Watsu pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center and movement studio, and a variety of classes, such as Pilates, yoga as well as fitness and nutrition consultations. 

Editor’s Note: Please take the necessary precautions to stay informed, safe and healthy if you decide to travel now. For U.S. travel restrictions and COVID-19 protocols, check out the websites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State Department. Most hotels and resorts post their safety and cleaning guidelines on their websites. And finally, make sure you do the research to find out what required documentation, such as health declaration forms, should be filled out prior to a visit to your desired destination. 

If you don’t want to travel – no worries. You can continue dreaming about the next dream destination on your travel bucket list or start planning a future getaway or vacation when you feel comfortable about traveling again. 

Kwin Mosby

Kwin is a Washington, DC-based digital content manager and content creator who enjoys writing about travel, pop culture, and interviewing inspirational people who dare us to dream bigger and experience more.

http://www.kwinmosby.com
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