It’s already August, and 2016 has been a whirlwind of health and wellness news. But one method that will always be en vogue, is the wellness retreat. As a way to escape from the daily responsibilities and get some T.L.C, the Amodrn team is always on the lookout for the most luxurious and eco friendly getaways available.
If giving yourself a time out is well overdue, we may have just the thing to relax, recharge and face the rest of the year in bliss.
From the jungles of Indonesia to the tropical islands of Thailand or the vast American mountains, we’ve got five luxe health retreats for you to consider on your next international (or local, depending on where you are) getaway. So pack your bags and take your pick, cause you’ll definitely want to bliss out at one of these locations.
5 luxe health retreats to relax and recharge
Fivelements
Where: Bali, Indonesia
Why we love it: Inspired by balinese culture, this eco retreat is nestled on the banks of the Ayung River. Their integrative wellness rituals are focused on healing the spiritual, mental and physical self through food, meditations and a variety of massages and therapies. The list of available services is so comprehensive you’ll want to study it thoroughly before finding the right one for you.
What to expect: The resort is entirely constructed out of bamboo. The villas are nothing short of luxurious with open air bathrooms, spacious rooms and four poster beds draped in mosquito nets. The best part ? Air conditioning included.
Must do: One of their signature detox and rejuvenation packages, which are customisable, can be organised as a 3, 7, 10 or 14 night stay. Don’t forget to get a yoga class or two in their beautiful indoor/outdoor thatch roof oval studio. Trust us, you’ll want to stay in savasana a little longer!
For more info, visit www.fivelements.org/en/
Treebone Resort
Where: Big Sur, California
Why we love it: With Sweeping views of the Californian coast, need we say more? The community feel of this retreat has a welcoming appeal, yet it’s perfect if you just want to focus on yourself. Massages and yoga workshops are available. In addition, there other outdoor activities such as hikes and ocean kayaking so you can get in touch with the great outdoors.
What to expect: Glamping at it’s finest. Think tipi-like oval tents (or yurts, as they call it) that are reminiscent of a giant cocoon. The rooms are tastefully decorated with timber wood floors, a fireplace and lounge chairs overlooking the coast. The entire lodge is powered by dedicated solar array so you’ll be well and truly in the eco-luxe vibe. If traditional camping is more your thing, you can BYOT (bring your own tent), and bring on the s’mores!
Must Do: Their yoga workshops and weekly yoga sessions in an panoramic outdoor platform. You can smell the ocean air as you Downward Dog your worries away. Make sure you try their lodge dining experience, everything is locally sourced or harvested in their very own garden, meaning the vegetables are farm-to-table.
For more info, visit www.treebonesresort.com
Amangiri
Where: Canyon Point, Utah, USA
Why we love it: Set amongst the majestic canyons of the American south west desert, this peaceful and luxurious retreat packs both adventure and tranquility. The Amangiri boasts an impressive spa that is spread across 2,322 square meters of pavilions, treatment rooms, and terraces that include everything from massages, scrubs, wraps and flotation therapies.
What to expect : Spacious, modern rooms offer futuristic views of the desert and the sweeping landscape. Each suite boasts an outdoor lounge and fireplace, while some more exclusive villas offer private pools or a roof terrace.
Must Do: One of their adventure packages with daily guided hikes through the surrounding canyons, as well as spa treatments and the use of their fitness centre. Or maybe opt for the “movement and alignment retreat”, which includes four meditation sessions, pilates classes and star gazing with an astronomer.
For more info, visit www.aman.com/resorts/amangiri
Kamalaya
Where: Koh Samui, Thailand
Why we love it: This award winning wellness sanctuary and holistic spa offers solutions for everything from stress, burn-outs and ways to get back on track with your healthy lifestyle. Choose from a range of wellness programs that are tailored to promote wellness in the areas you need the most; be it sleep enhancement, detox, renewal and revitalise, or emotional balance. Better yet, create your own thanks to their on site naturopaths and health practitioners.
What to expect: Kamalaya is like i’s own self-contained village. The resort boasts three different dining areas, including the Soma Restaurant, Amrita Cafa, and Alchemy tea lounge, all of which offer sweeping views of the beach and island. Their wellness facilities boast a Elixir Bar, Yoga Pavilion, Yoga sala and Shakti Fitness centre, so there will be plenty to choose from when it comes to relaxing.
Must Do: The herbal steam cavern and ambient plunge pool, complete with interior waterfall and natural rock wall. The three plunge pools with varying temperatures await for you to cool down after your steam session, along with stunning views of the coast amidst the tropical jungle.
For more info, visit www.kamalaya.com
Ikurangi
Where: Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Why we love it: The ultimate in luxury and sustainability, this tropical getaway is a glamping experience not to miss. As an escape from everyday life, the retreat offers various packages with a true focus on sustainability. The owners support and promote eco friendly initiatives through various ways, including low energy light bulbs, recycling and composting initiatives, and free use of bicycles for guests.
What to expect: Majestic tents that combine outdoor living with luxury facilities. Choose between Tropical “Are”, a studio like room with modern and tropical furnishings. Or opt for the luxury safari tents complete with king bed, electricity and private ensuite with modern composting toilet. It’s perfect combination for that indoor/outdoor feel.
Must Do: Sit back, relax, enjoy. Repeat.
