Accommodation
The term ‘wellness’ often conjures up traditional images of soothing spa treatments, yoga in the most incredible locations, superfood salads and colourful smoothies. ‘Well-being’ on the other hand is much more expansive – it encourages us to look at the broader ways that people can achieve peace of mind, joy, confidence…
Here’s our pick of five hotels that adopt a more holistic take on making their guests feel good. Yes, some of these retreats have dreamy spas that are not to be missed, but they too make a point of concerning themselves with the importance of belonging, connection, culture, freedom, purpose, values and self-fulfilment.
A bounty of fun awaits extended families who head en masse to the jewel of this Cretan resort, the four-bedroom Royal Spa Pool Villa. Complete with private gym and in-villa spa treatments, generous space means every member of the family is guaranteed privacy, but can come together to enjoy each other’s company. Reconnect over al fresco meals or make lasting memories on a sailing adventure discovering dazzling beaches and uninhabited islets.
Elounda Gulf Villas - Crete, GreeceWith its tranquil water-sports-free beach, its sunset views over sacred Delos and Rhenia islets, the brand new thalasso spa opening this summer and its yoga and Pilates sessions in an amphitheatre overlooking the Aegean sea – Mykonos Grand tunes out of the island’s relentless partying and preening, and instead is a place to hide away from the world and all its demands. There’s certainly an energy and true joie de vivre here too, but it’s just secretive, more intimate and simply allows you to focus on yourself.
Mykonos Grand Hotel - GreeceThis may be a classic destination for R&R, but for those craving a little adventure can explore quaint villages, bountiful vineyards and olive groves on two wheels. Overseen by two-time former Swiss cycling champion, Thomas Wegmüller, the in-house professional cycling centre provides mountain and road bikes for independent exploration discovering the island’s diverse species of native flora and fauna. Journey further afield with an escorted tour to Turtle Beach and Pissouri Valley.
Columbia Beach Resort - CyprusFor the ski aficionados wanting to make the most of Switzerland’s snowy peaks, The Capra’s ‘Peak Health Retreat’ aims to relax the body and focus the mind. Expect to be immersed into a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle with holistic programmes designed by doctors and wellness experts, focusing on five ‘pillars of vitality’ that will take you on a health journey of scenic hikes, mindful yoga and nutritious fare.
The Capra - Saas-Fee, SwitzerlandThe first and only art-immersive hotel in the Maldives bestows just the right dose of inspiration to arouse your creative side. A captivating take on art, and quite brilliant design details that engage all the senses, are hidden around the resort, even underwater. True to the resort’s mantra ‘a place for the joy of living’, interactive events and workshops at the island art gallery and studio nurtures both local artists and visiting aesthetes.
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