Unwind and Recharge at the Best Wellness Retreats in the World

In the words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Although you might not think such sage advice could come from a school-skipping, havoc-causing adolescent, there is indeed truth to what he says. Sometimes, you just have to take a day — or much longer — to refresh your perspective. When it’s time to hit the pause button and recharge your batteries, spend time at one of these best wellness retreats in the world. You’ll return to your life fully relaxed and ready for anything.

1. Kamalaya, Thailand

Thailand is known for its numerous relaxation destinations, and Kamalaya is among the best wellness retreats in the world. It is located on the island of Koh Samui, where you’re surrounded by the sea, sand and serenity, and calls itself the Realm of the Lotus. Its approach to wellness combines Western medical research with ancient Eastern healing traditions to enhance people’s lives.

Various wellness programs are available, including sleep enhancement, basic and comprehensive detox sessions, and an Asian bliss offering that combines Ayurveda, Chinese medicine and Thai therapies. In addition, the Arjan Cave, once used by Buddhist monks for meditation and contemplation, is open to all guests. You also have your choice of accommodations, including rooms with garden views, sea views or private pools.

You have your choice of dining experiences, including a detox diet, low sugar, salt, fat and dairy options, and a tea room offering panoramic views.

2. Euphoria Retreat, Greece

The Euphoria Retreat is a unique destination in Peloponnese catering to those who want to improve their health and fitness while immersed in nature. The facility’s spa offers various treatments focusing on the philosophy of “Euphoria Methodos,” which combines East with West, traditional Chinese medicine with ancient Hellenic principles, and science with naturalism. You’ll find an infrared sauna, a sanctuary deprivation pool, experiential showers that change temperatures and an ice fountain to improve circulation.

You can choose various programs to participate in, such as a well-being detox, emotional harmony and couples’ escape. Euphoria takes a holistic approach to health to restore physical, emotional, mental and spiritual balance. Its doctors, nutritionists, mentors, therapists and fitness instructors work together to support and encourage you on your personal journey. You can also go on a group or private retreat to learn about herbal medicine, focus on emotional transformation or follow in the footsteps of Odysseus in a self-discovery journey. 

Enjoy monastic dining experiences and Mediterranean cuisine tailored to your needs. This diet incorporates olive oil, a rich source of monosaturated fats, lots of fruits and vegetables, and fish.

3. Nemacolin, U.S.

Nemacolin is nestled in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands and is an ideal destination for those who enjoy being pampered while having a bit of an adventure. In addition to its spa and wellness programs, guests can play a round of golf, go for a swim, enjoy live concerts, or shoot sporting clays and go fly-fishing at the Rod and Range Club. There’s also a casino for those who hope to hit the jackpot and ease their financial worries.

The Woodlands Spa includes access to the fireside lounge, steam room, indoor spa pool, sauna, whirlpool and locker rooms. Indulge in body treatments and wraps, seaweed baths and foot soaks, and full-day immersion experiences. You can even try a crystal massage. 

Nemacolin’s Holistic Healing Center focuses on life balance and integrated wellness. It offers curated wellness packages, acupuncture, specialty massage and yoga, in addition to salt-water float therapy, infrared light therapy and cryotherapy. The center’s therapists, educators and wellness advisers build customized treatment plans for each guest.

4. Aurora Spa, Sweden

If you want to journey to the far North, plan a visit to the Aurora Spa in Kiruna, Sweden. This retreat has embraced winter in all its beauty. Guests can enjoy the outdoors in a heated pool, snuggle up inside and view the snow from panoramic windows, and even bask in the glow of the Northern Lights.

Aurora’s Camp Ripan focuses on nature, movement, nourishment, recovery, enjoyment, knowledge and joy to get at the heart of wellness. Various treatments are available at the Aurora Spa, including sauna options like pine oil aroma, mineral and mountain stream. Indulge in classic Swedish massage, a revitalizing foot care treatment, or a scalp, face and neck massage. Other interesting treatments include a coffee facial scrub, a foot bath with iron ore pellets from a mine and pine-infused body oil. All products are made with natural ingredients, and many are made in-house.

You can choose to stay in a hotel cabin or be totally rustic and go camping here. The restaurant includes food prepared from local ingredients, including vegetarian and vegan options. There is also a gym on-site, as well as a court for playing padel, which is best described as a version of tennis played in an enclosed squash court.

5. Coral Cove Wellness Resort, Jamaica

Many of the best wellness resorts in the world are located by the ocean, as is the case with Coral Cove Wellness Resort in Jamaica. It aims to provide a genuine Jamaican experience rooted in wellness, community and connection to nature and is located on the shores of Little Bay. It offers various water sports and activities, including snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking, as well as various entertainment options. There are also cannabis and mushroom experiences for the adventurous.

Wellness experiences include an immersive, meditative sound bath, private seaside yoga sessions, and an off-site jungle walk and lunch. Spa treatments include a seaside body scrub, a banana leaf wrap and Caribbean-infused Swedish massage. These services infuse Jamaican culture and innovative therapies to provide one-of-a-kind experiences.

Try authentic Jamaican cuisine during your visit. Coral Cove focuses on farm-to-table meals and ethical sourcing for its food served beachside or overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Stay in an oceanside room or cozy cottage to really feel like you got away from it all. 

Take Time to Visit the Best Wellness Retreats in the World

People have various definitions for the best wellness retreats in the world. Some prefer snow and solitude, while others relish the sun and sea. Others appreciate a place to reflect and grow spiritually. Whichever place you gravitate toward, remember the importance of taking time off from everyday life and enjoying the beauty of the world. Embrace your inner Ferris so you can stop and look around — you’ll love what you can see.