Destination: Wellness

The Ultimate Guide to Rejuvenating Escapes

In our fast-paced world, wellness retreats offer the perfect opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign with yourself. These hand-picked wellness destinations blend luxury + nature, providing transformative experiences in stunning settings. Here's your guide to locations to nurture mind, body + soul in 2024.

Sensei Lanai | Hawaii

At Sensei Lanai, wellness meets paradise. Nestled on the secluded island of Lanai and apart of the Four Seasons hospitality team, this retreat combines personalized programs, cutting-edge health technology, and nature’s serenity. Expert guides craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness needs, ensuring a holistic and immersive wellness experience. Whether you’re meditating in lush gardens or enjoying treatments in private hale (bungalows), Sensei Lanai offers a mindful escape where rejuvenation is effortless.

Alisal Ranch | Santa Ynez, California

At Alisal Ranch, luxury meets authentic ranch living. With 10,000 acres of rolling hills, you can unwind through horseback riding, guided nature walks, or yoga surrounded by oak trees and vineyards. Beyond the activities, the ranch’s holistic wellness approach shines through its farm-to-table dining, offering organic and locally sourced ingredients. The balance of rustic charm and wellness luxury invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and experience a simpler, more mindful way of life.

Six Senses | Rome, Italy

Six Senses Rome is a tranquil oasis amid the hustle of a historic city. While ancient wonders surround you, the hotel offers an escape within, with Roman-inspired spa treatments, mindfulness programs, and rooftop yoga overlooking landmarks like the Pantheon. The design is rooted in sustainability, seamlessly blending modern wellness with the city’s rich heritage. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring, offering a retreat where relaxation and Roman history go hand-in-hand.

The Ranch Hudson Valley | Upstate New York

The award-winning, highly structured and results-oriented program from The Ranch Malibu, comes to the East Coast for a luxury retreat immersed in the natural surroundings of the lower Hudson Valley – less than an hour from New York City. Set in the bucolic beauty of upstate New York, the program pushes you to reset your body with structured hikes, farm-fresh meals, and restorative treatments. The immersive experience leaves you feeling energized and mentally refreshed, surrounded by nature’s calming influence. This is a destination where wellness isn’t just an escape but an opportunity for lasting lifestyle change.

Ananda in the Himalayas | India

Perched high above the Ganges River, Ananda is a spiritual haven, offering the wisdom of ancient Indian wellness practices. The retreat blends Ayurvedic treatments, yoga, and meditation to create a transformative experience rooted in holistic healing. With the towering Himalayas as your backdrop, you can dive deep into personalized wellness programs designed to align your body, mind, and soul. The sacred energy of the surroundings amplifies the sense of serenity, making Ananda a retreat like no other.

Naturhotel Forsthofgut | Austria

Surrounded by the Austrian Alps, Naturhotel Forsthofgut offers a nature-centric wellness escape. The retreat’s holistic approach includes forest bathing, alpine hikes, and luxurious spa treatments in harmony with nature. The unique waldSPA focuses on the healing power of the forest, combining natural elements like stone and wood with soothing therapies. Organic, locally sourced meals and a serene alpine atmosphere create the perfect environment for recharging in nature’s embrace.

Aro Ha Wellness Retreat | New Zealand

Aro Ha in New Zealand’s Southern Alps is an eco-friendly retreat offering a perfect blend of mindfulness and adventure. The minimalist, sustainable design emphasizes a deep connection with nature, while the programs focus on holistic well-being through yoga, meditation, plant-based nutrition, and daily hikes. Each day brings a renewed sense of vitality, making this a haven for those seeking both physical transformation and spiritual growth amidst breathtaking scenery.

Healing in Nature

For those seeking the healing power of nature, these natural landscapes offer the perfect setting to restore balance. Countless studies show that more time in nature is good for the soul, and the following locations over deliver:

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a Mediterranean gem, where the island’s rugged coastline and crystalline waters serve as a natural sanctuary for healing. With its rich history of longevity, Sardinia’s wellness culture is rooted in simplicity—fresh food, outdoor activities, and a relaxed pace of life. Hike through its wild mountains, swim in secluded coves, and embrace the island’s timeless spirit. This is a place where wellness is inherent in the way of life, making it a true healing destination.

Hot Springs, Iceland

Iceland’s geothermal hot springs are nature’s gift to those seeking physical and mental relaxation. The mineral-rich waters, often nestled in dramatic volcanic landscapes, provide therapeutic benefits that soothe the skin, muscles, and mind. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon, more remote, off-the-beaten-path springs offer solitude and deeper connection to the earth. Here, the steam rises into the cold air, creating an ethereal experience of nature’s healing power.

Banff National Park, Canada

With its majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and pristine wilderness, Banff National Park offers healing through the sheer beauty of nature. Whether you’re soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs or trekking along glacier-fed lakes, the energy of the landscape rejuvenates the spirit. The crisp mountain air and the expanse of nature provide a powerful sense of grounding and renewal, making Banff a perfect escape for wellness through adventure.

Sedona, Arizona, USA

Sedona’s red rock landscape, believed to be home to energy vortexes, has long been a spiritual destination for healing. The dramatic desert scenery invites travelers to connect deeply with nature through hiking, meditation, and yoga. The vortexes are thought to amplify meditation and promote self-discovery, making Sedona a powerful place to realign body and spirit. It’s an iconic destination for those seeking both natural beauty and spiritual transformation.

Each of these wellness destinations offers a unique approach to restoring balance, whether through luxurious spa treatments, immersive fitness programs, or the healing power of nature. From the spiritual energy of Sedona to the tranquil beauty of the Austrian Alps, these retreats provide a transformative experience that will leave you feeling recharged and inspired. Let your next adventure be one that nourishes your soul and elevates your well-being.