What’s the best way to get rid of those back to work, summertime’s over blues?
Start planning your next holiday! If you’re already dreaming about getting away from the daily grind, consider booking yourself into one of these wondrous retreats.
Yangshuo Mountain Retreat, China
If the bustling, crowded cities of China are a little too much for you, this tranquil retreat alongside the Yulong River will solve all your worries.
There’s no phone, no television and nothing to do except relax, swim or cruise on the river, explore the mountainside scenery and enjoy farm-to-table meals. Yes please to all that!
Ananda in the Himalayas, India
Unexpected luxury and wellness awaits you in this magnificent retreat set in the Himalayan foothills.
Holistic health is the focus at Ananda, where everything from Ayurvedic spa treatments to yoga sessions to healing treatments will be at your fingertips.
If you’re unsure where to start, try booking a Himalayan Bliss package or one of the many Wellness packages available.
Mii amo, US
In the exquisite Boynton Canyon, in Sedona, Arizona, Mii amo is your one-stop retreat shop when visiting the Southwest.
You’ll find relaxing massage and spa treatments, fitness and wellness consultations, nature exploring excursions and even educational workshops here.
With much inspiration drawn from Native American culture and even the chance to create your own retreat ‘journey’, Mii amo lives up to its name as a ‘destination spa.’
Vivood Landscape Hotel, Spain
Vivood is nestled in Spain’s stunning Guadalest Valley, just a couple of hours’ drive from the beautiful city of Valencia.
Surrounded by lush green landscapes, Vivood offers contemporary eco-friendly rooms, an infinity pool, a full restaurant and bar and even prenatal yoga classes (calling all expecting mums!).
When booking, enquire about ‘Night of Candles’ for a magical surprise.
Bali Surf & Snow Goddess Retreat, Indonesia & Japan
Listen up ladies, because this one is for you!
These women-only escapes take place in Seminyak, Bali, and Hakuba, Japan, and offer you the chance to go on a retreat where you meet likeminded travellers and learn to surf (in Bali) or ski and snowboard (in Japan).
In between lessons, you’re invited to indulge in pampering services and explore the dazzling surrounds of your destination.
Tip: If sports don’t sound that relaxing to you, try a regular Goddess retreat (in Bali), which includes yoga, meditation, cooking classes and spa treatments.
Bodhi Khaya Retreat, South Africa
Head south along the coast from Cape Town and you’ll discover this wonderful retreat at the foot of the Witkransberg mountain.
There are lots of retreat programs to choose from here, including ‘Fusion Vinyasa’, ‘Purification’ and ‘Worrier to Warrior.’ Hiking, swimming, whale watching are all available, too.
Cliffs of Moher Retreat, Ireland
There’s a little bit of everything at this luxury retreat, which can be found at the top of the Cliffs of Moher on Ireland’s west coast (they’re stunning; search for a photo if you’ve never heard of them).
Yoga, pilates, meditation, wellness, cleansing, fitness and hiking retreat programs are all available here and exploring the nearby coastal towns is a must during your free time.
Hariharalaya, Cambodia
With a strong emphasis on yoga, meditation, self-discovery and connection with nature and Cambodian village life, Hariharalaya will deliver one of the most memorable experiences of your life.
On top of all that, the retreats take place alongside Angkor’s ancient temples. There’s also a wellness spa to help you relax even more, and home-cooked vegan meals are served daily.