Going on holiday is the perfect opportunity to escape the stressful nature of our daily lives and take a little ‘me time’. So, when it comes to booking a holiday, why not opt for the chance to fully restore your mind, body and soul? From soothing treatments in the finest spas to state-of-the-art relaxation programmes in natural surroundings, these are our all-time favourite health and wellbeing escapes.
Six Senses Yao Noi, Thailand
Guiding you through a wellness journey, Six Senses Yao Noi has worked alongside highly-respected doctors to develop an innovative approach to wellness that addresses the common issues we face in our lives. Utilising the preventative principles of eastern medicine and the results-orientated western influences, each personalised programme tackles everything from nutrition and sleep health to full mind and body restoration through holistic spa treatments, yoga, meditation and mindfulness sessions.
COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali
Combining comprehensive treatments with the spirit of adventure, the jungle cocooned paradise of COMO Shambhala is an immersive 360 wellness experience. Lending itself to an exploration of nature, body awakening activities such as yoga by the River Ayung and walking the Campuhan Ridge will kick start your road to restoration. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, Dead Sea mud therapy and hot river stone massages coupled with healthy Asian cuisine will have you feeling Zen long after your holiday has ended.
BodyHoliday, St Lucia
Set your own pace at BodyHoliday. Unwind with cutting edge wellbeing practices, from FAR Infrared Therapy as part of the popular BodyScience programmes, to ancient Ayurvedic treatments including a Nabhi Abhyanga massage, which aids digestion and boosts metabolism. Work up a sweat in the beautiful tree-top spinning studio's; embrace the tropical surroundings and breathtaking coastline with a mountain biking experience, or hike into the waterfall at Edmund Rainforest. A holiday of fun activity or peaceful serenity.
Six Senses, Douro Valley, Portugal
Everything about Six Senses radiates wellness and sustainability. From the surrounding vine-covered hills to the healthy cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients from the organic fruit and vegetable garden. Take in the beautiful scenery with Aerial yoga - a truly enlightening experience, or canoe across the serene waters of the Douro Valley River. Locally inspired spa treatments including Complete Grape Rejuvenation and Schist Stone and Almond Body Soother will bring forth mind, body and soul restoration, whilst Alchemy Bar Workshops will show you how to use fresh herbs to treat your ailments.
MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa, Seychelles
Feel your stress and strains float away, as the sounds of tropical birds and gently lapping waters soothes your soul. Amongst the islands natural rock formations sits MAIA's Balinese-style spa, where world-class treatments including the age-defying Blue Diamond Facial and the Twenty Dancing fingers massage will leave you feeling re-energised. For a more holistic experience, spa therapies can be coupled with Hatha Yoga and Qi Gong to purify your body, enhancing energy levels and reducing signs of stress.
Borgo Egnazia, Puglia
With a calming demeanour, Borgo Egnazia offers an authentic experience of Southern Italy that makes it ideal for an escape from the hustle and bustle. The 'made in Italy' vibe extends itself to the famous Vair Spa, where every treatment is infused with local spirit and the artists-therapists have an infectious love for life. A transcendent escape awaits in the Aquann, a salt water floatation tank that offers a sensory deprivation space to soothe away tension and stress. Or heighten your senses with Avvrazze, a 'psychosomatic facial' that harmonises your psyche and balances your emotions.
The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, Greece
One of Greece's best kept secrets, Westin Resort Costa Navarino feels like your very own peace of paradise. Resting on a breathtaking stretch of sandy beach, surrounded by thousands of olive trees, its tranquil ambiance will whisk you way into a deep sense of relaxation. But, if you like activities, a guided eco walk, sailing the Ionian Sea or diving the depths to observe the magnificent loggerhead sea turtles will tick all the boxes.
Amilla Fushi, Maldives
Behind the lush foliage of this exclusive island destination lays the wellness tree house retreat by Bodyism. Designed to restore energy flows, peace and inner balance, this one bedroom abode includes a personal wellness consultation, alongside a variety of spa treatments, fitness classes and individual meditation sessions. If you want something more rigorous, the Maldivian Warrior Workout at Amilla Fushi's Javvu Spa increases stamina and strength through coconut tree climbing, tree trunk pushing and swimming in the Indian Ocean.
Verdura Resort, A Rocco Forte Hotel, Sicily
Home to one of Europe's most advanced wellbeing centres, Verdura Resorts spa is built on a five-pillared philosophy: water, plants, exercise, nutrition and balance. Utilising the brand's Forte Organics products, treatments range from collagen inducing radiofrequency facials to thermo-active body wraps to stimulate circulation and relieve tension. Heated salt and mineral induced Thalassotherapy pools complement Body Pump, cardio and Pilates classes, whilst celebrity chef, Fulvio Pierangelini whips home-grown produce into body nourishing cuisine.
Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia
Fusing ancient balancing energies with bespoke natural treatments, Four Seasons Resort Langkawi favours restoring elemental balance. Set amongst towering limestone cliffs, The Geo Spa reconnects you with the natural environment through earth, water, light and air treatments, boosting emotional and physical wellbeing. From a calming and healing Earthlight Ritual scrub to a sensuous Taksu Kasih rhythmic massage that flows like water; you will definitely leave Malaysia with a heightened sense of self.
