The digital revolution has empowered us to find the chicest boutique hotels, off-the-beaten-path restaurants, and best museums and shops in almost any destination (before we even get there.) But all that info can create itinerary overload, and too often we return from a vacation… well, needing a vacation. A trip committed solely to heath and wellness has never sounded better than it does this year, and we’ve found ten destinations around the globe to inspire your next vacation. From a steaming eco-thermal pool in Iceland to an underground spa in Marrakesh, these one-of-a-kind experiences will leave you revitalized and wanting to know more about wisdom and wellness from different cultures. And don’t worry — we promise that all ten of these spots will look great in your insta feed, too.
featured image by @taramilktea
Ananda, India
For serious yogis, it doesn’t get much more legit than a visit to Ananda. The Indian destination spa is set in the Himalayas and boasts a constantly rotating cast of visiting masters who are available to guide guests in the traditional practice of yoga. Classes are also available in healing, stress management, and meditation.
Ten Thousand Waves, Santa Fe
You don’t have to travel all the way to Asia to get the full ryokan treatment. At Ten Thousand Waves in Santa Fe, New Mexico you can soak in one of nine hot baths (in between Japanese inspired spa services like stone massage and herbal wraps.) And the best part? The spa’s on site izakaya restaurant is top rated, too.
Amangiri, Utah
When we say the Amangiri is one of the most stunning and exclusive resort properties in the US, we mean you might catch a glimpse of some legit Hollywood A listers among the well heeled guests. The all-suite property includes a sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, yoga pavilion, as well as panoramic views of the Utah desert. Yoga and guided hikes through the desert are complimentary. Hashtag namaste, y’all.
Amansala Resort, Tulum
Tulum’s famed eco-chic resort Amansala offers an array of custom retreats from “bikini bootcamp” to “destination detox”. With gorgeous white sand beaches and the renowned foodie scene in Tulum, we can’t think of a better place to unwind between vinyasas.
W Hotel, the Maldives (and other locations)
For those who aren’t afraid of doing handstands and ordering bottle service by the pool on the same day. Why not book one of W Hotel’s exclusive yoga retreats with FIT Ambassador Tara Stiles?
Cuixmala, Puerto Vallarta
This grand estate set on a 25,000 acre wildlife preserve was once the private home of environmentalist Sir James Goldsmith. It’s now a hotel with 3km of private beach that has played host to yoga retreats led by renowned yogis like Kathy Wolff and Maya Fiennes. Hold that crane pose — you just might spot a zebra, antelope, or sea turtle in the distance.
Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire
For those with a preppier approach to fitness, nothing could be better (or more fun) than a stay at the Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire. The member’s club retreat boasts old-school activities like rowing, horseback riding, tennis, and five-a-side football. Stay in the main house, a cottage, or one of 40 cabins each fully decked with Soho House’s unmatched interior design. Swoon.
Aire Ancient Baths, New York
Discover the benefits of the ancient Roman practice of bathing at this mysterious underground spa in Tribeca. Guests have access to massage, aromatherapy treatments, and several thermal baths at different temperatures. The spa also offers a special 60-minute yoga class in the spa setting.
Parrot Cay, Turks and Caicos
This private resort in the Caribbean has long been the gold standard for wellness getaways with it’s award-winning Shambala Yoga Retreats. The retreats, led by visiting masters, typically involve five hours of practice daily over a five-day period. Retreats can be focused on different subjects such a yoga, pilates, and healing.
La Mamounia Hotel and Spa, Marrakesh
This opulent Moroccan hotel is so incredible that there’s an Assouline book dedicated entirely to it. The spa features 27,000 square feet of decadence where guests can indulge in various spa services, including the traditional Moroccan “Hamman” treatment which involves the famous black soap and steam rooms Morocco is known for. Inside tip: Spa day passes are available for those who want to visit the spa without footing the bill for a suite at the hotel.
Blue Lagoon Clinic Hotel, Iceland
Book a room at the Clinic Hotel and be within walking distance of Iceland’s famed geothermal spa. The warm waters (usually between 99–102 °F) are rich in minerals like silica and sulfur and are reported to help some people suffering from skin diseases such as psoriasis. The Clinic offers an array of in-water massage services and exfoliating treatments.
