You’ve probably heard about “wellness retreats” over the past few years. Their popularity has surged, with many travelers choosing them over traditional vacations. The promise of being pampered, rested, and massaged is tempting, but with so many options worldwide, where should you go for the best experience?
If you’ve been feeling a bit rundown or in need of some TLC, a wellness getaway should be at the top of your list.
Depending on the retreat you pick, a typical day might start with a brisk sunrise hike, followed by a spin class or Zumba, all before a healthy organic breakfast. Midday could bring a bamboo massage and a coffee facial to help you unwind, leading into another nourishing organic dinner.
Below are our picks for the best wellness retreats around the world. We judged them on three factors: location, service, and how holistic their approach to wellness is. Each retreat can score up to 3 points total, with the top score reserved for our favorites.
These retreats are spread across the globe, so air travel will likely be needed. While many airports have public transport, we recommend booking an airport transfer so you can relax and prepare for your retreat. A reputable provider that serves all the locations listed here is AtoB Transfer — check their site once you’ve chosen a destination.
5. Aelia Wellness Retreat – Nicosia, Cyprus
Located inland on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, Aelia brings together mind, body, and soul in a calm, restorative setting. They offer a quality spa, fine dining, and eco-friendly rooms, plus activities like horse riding, cooking classes, and wellness workshops. As the smallest option on our list, it’s perfect for anyone wanting peace away from the city.
Location: 1/1
Service: 0.6/1
Holistic Approach: 0.2/1
Total Score: 1.8/3
4. Aman – New York, USA
Yes, this one is in the middle of Midtown Manhattan, and it’s easy to reach by airport transfer. Housed in a historic building, Aman manages to create a surprisingly calm retreat in the city. The hotel features two spa houses with modern facilities where you can tailor your own spa experience, from hot tubs and a cold-plunge pool to a Hammam steam room and a Banya sauna.
Location: 0.6/1
Service: 0.9/1
Holistic Approach: 0.6/1
Total Score: 2.1/3
3. Aro Hā Wellness Retreat – Glenorchy, New Zealand
Aro Hā uses research-backed methods to support mind and body recovery, aiming to improve well-being through daily habits. Your day might begin with a Tibetan chime, followed by yoga, mindfulness classes, and sessions in an infrared sauna. The retreat encourages a tech-free stay in nature, with views of Lake Wakatipu that help you reconnect with the outdoors and yourself.
Location: 1/1
Service: 0.6/1
Holistic Approach: 0.7/1
Total Score: 2.2/3
2. Brenners Park Hotel & Spa – Baden-Baden, Germany
Set near the Black Forest, this 150-year-old classic retreat is a heavyweight in the wellness world. The natural Baden-Baden thermal springs are close by, letting you rejuvenate in nature. The hotel also has a medical spa offering services like aesthetic dentistry and dermatology, and a range of package deals—especially appealing for couples.
Location: 1/1
Service: 0.8/1
Holistic Approach: 0.3/1
Total Score: 2.2/3
1. Arctic Bath Hotel – Harads, Sweden
Our top pick is this floating retreat in Swedish Lapland. It offers deep relaxation while keeping a small environmental footprint. The highlight is the cold baths, followed by a hot sauna—an alternating routine believed to boost the immune system and help certain ailments. With chances to see the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, you get both world-class treatments and unforgettable views.
Location: 1/1
Service: 1/1
Holistic Approach: 0.8/1
Total Score: 2.8/3
That’s our list. We hope these retreats inspire you to take time for your body and mind. While we’ve ranked them, all five are excellent and worth a visit. Wellness isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a real chance to reconnect with your body and the world beneath your feet, something many of us neglect.