Ever feel like you need a holiday after your holiday? Why not get ahead of the game and combine your adventure packed vacay with some spa, wellness or even workout opportunities? Sounds like the best of both worlds to us. Even better, we’ve done all the research for you, so it couldn’t be easier to get booked onto a winner this summer. Here are our favourite relaxing wellness retreats that you can visit this year.
1. Iceland
Iceland is famous for it’s natural spas and geothermal spas. Home to some of the worlds most phenomenal natural springs and spa retreats, Iceland is definitely number one on our health retreat bucket list.
Hveragerði
Hveragerði is a hugely popular destination in Iceland for health and wellness retreats. Whether you’re looking for award-winning spas or stunning natural geothermal locations, Hveragerdi will have something for you.
The Blue Lagoon: Reykjavik
Perhaps Iceland’s most famous tourist attraction, The Blue Lagoon is situated in Reykjavik, Iceland. One of the twenty-five wonders of the world, this geothermal paradise is absolutely not to be missed.
There are a range of packages available to suit your needs and allow you to experience the unique Silica mud mask of the lagoon. Visit the mask bar, the state-of-the-art sauna and steam rooms and relax with a drink in and at the water bar. You can even get an in-water massage. Pretty cool.
Whilst you’re there, checkout some of the volcanic and glacial landscapes for some unique sight-seeing opportunities. Sometimes all you need is a change of scenery to reset and recharge, and we’re struggling to think of a better place to do so.
Reykjadalur Hot Springs
The clue is in the name – Reykjadalur, which translates to “Steam Valley”, is a beautiful hot spring resort. Just under an hour away from Reykjavik, this is the perfect secluded health retreat. Hot springs have been noted for their healing benefits for centuries for their healing and mineral benefits, with minerals such as calcium and silica having a great effect on the skin.
These springs are particularly popular with sufferers of Psoriasis and Eczema – so if that resonates with you, it could be time to try this ancient method.
2. Portugal
EPIC SANA – Savanna Wellness Spa
Located with great views of the beautiful Falésia beach, EPIC SANA Algarve is one of the country’s most popular health retreat destinations. Situated in the Algarve, this retreat offers programmes which range from diet and exercise retreats to relaxation techniques, all taught by expert and professional therapists and nutritionists.
Facilities and experiences include:
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Gym
- Facials
- Personal fitness instructors
- Massages
- Fitness classes
3. Greece
As if its crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches and nourishing, sunshine fuelled cuisine wasn't enough, Greece and its islands boast a whole host of retreat options that are sure to have you feeling nurtured and rested in no time.
PACE by Peligoni
Not that we're biased, but this one might be our favourite destination, and if you're lucky you might just catch Innermost serving up our delicious protein smoothies whilst you're there! The Peligoni Club, situated on the beautiful island of Zakynthos (yes, that's Zante to us Brits, but not that side of Zante...), hosts two very special wellness weeks per year which promise days packed with fitness classes, meditation sessions, informative workshops and more, all the while being fuelled by creations from the best chefs around. Book onto their next one here.
4. Gibraltar
Just off of the Southern Spanish coast, Gibraltar is famous for stunning landscapes and relaxing coastlines, providing the perfect sanctuary for a getaway. The country boasts great weather and a short flight time from the UK – just under three hours, means that the wellness retreat of your dreams is really not that far away.
The Infinity Spa – The Sunborn Yacht Hotel
Located on a luxury yacht, The Sunborn Yacht Hotel houses the unique Infinity Spa. With top of the range Elemis treatments, Nirvana Face and Body treatments and exclusive massage therapies available, the Infinity Spa has it all. What could be more relaxing than an essential oil massage with views of the ocean?
Summary
Everyone deserves a break, and if you have the chance to head out into the world whilst doing so, take it! Let’s get travelling and take care of ourselves. Whether you select one of our favourite health retreats from the above list of embark on a wellness travel journey of your own: we've got one piece of advice for you. Go for it.
Health is wealth, after all.
References
- Erfurt-Cooper, P., & Cooper, M. (2009). Health and wellness tourism: Spas and hot springs. Channel View Publications. Click here.
