The World’s Best Wellness Retreats

By Mandy Burkholder | March 30, 2016

The World’s Best Wellness Retreats

If you’re lacking the peace of mind to get through each day, it might be time to book a stay at one of the world’s most relaxing wellness retreats. Some offer one-off classes that focus on tranquility, mindfulness, and meditation, while others offer all-inclusive spa packages that will unwind even the tightest muscles.

Located throughout the American west and the Caribbean Sea, these wellness retreats are the best of the best. The only thing that’s left is to strip down, take a dip in a natural spring, and say, “ah!”

Parrot Cay & COMO Shambhala Retreat, Turks and Caicos

For an exclusive retreat unlike anything else in the world, venture to Parrot Cay and COMO Shambhala Retreat in Turks and Caicos. After a 30-minute boat ride from Providenciales, you’ll be in the epitome of tranquility in the resort’s waterfront Balinese-style villas. With holistic spa treatments, three miles of sandy beach, and attentive service, you might never leave!

Red Mountain, St. George, Utah

Set within the ethereal beauty of southern Utah’s red desert landscape, Red Mountain offers Reiki sessions, nutrition courses, yoga, and meditation. The cuisine is world-class, too, so you’ll never go hungry… that is, until you take one too many of Red Mountain’s fitness courses. You can even play a round of 18 holes while spending time at the resort, which many people think is the most relaxing activity on Earth.

Esalen, Big Sur, California

With limestone springs set atop the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll leave Esalen a changed person. They offer more than 400 workshops (Embracing the Wild Unknown, Time To Reflect, Science and Spirituality) year-round, so feel free to pop in a few extra times for good measure.

Hawaii Island Retreat, Big Island, Hawaii

Located on the northern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, the Hawaii Island Retreat offers themed wellness retreats, a saltwater infinity pool, and outdoor spa treatments. You can even take hula classes… and stay in a yurt.

Asclepios Wellness & Healing Retreat, San Jose, Costa Rica

Conveniently located near the San Jose airport, but worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Asclepios features a full spa, organic restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool. Each of the unique rooms overlooks a valley that’s dense with sugarcane and coffee plants.

Aqua Wellness Resort, Nicaragua

With it’s eco-friendly design and luxurious amenities, Aqua Wellness Resort on Nicaragua’s Bahia La Redonda comes with breathtaking views and healthful cuisine. Each of the resort’s spa treatments uses local techniques and products, so you’ll leave knowing you benefited the community.

Ten Thousand Waves, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe’s Ten Thousand Waves is a spa experience unlike any other in the United States. A lifelike Japanese village, only minutes from Santa Fe’s city center, will inspire the deepest relaxation of your life. While staying at Ten Thousand Waves, you may experience massages, spa treatments, and upscale Japanese dining (called izakaya).

Shambhala, Denver, Colorado

Shambhala focuses the energy on wellness through classes, retreats, and group study. Not far from Denver, it’s easy to take a workshop on spiritual healing or meditation. They even have mindfulness programs for families—we all need a bit of that!

Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa, Dominican Republic

Eco-friendly bungalows in a tropical setting? The Dominican Republic’s Natura Cabana Boutique Hotel & Spa is a sight to behold. Spend the week on the hotel’s private beach, taking yoga classes, and eating fresh, local foods. Natura Cabana Boutique’s massage cabins will change your life! And when you’re finished, you can take a dip in the community’s beautiful pool.