Looking for the best of both worlds? Here are our picks for the 10 best adventure and wellness combo retreats you should consider!
Can’t decide between a tranquil wellness retreat and a thrilling adventure-filled holiday? Good news. You can do both at these 10 best adventure and wellness combo retreats.
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No need to sacrifice one for the other. Book a stay at one of these and have the holiday of a lifetime—get your adrenaline pumping with their adventurous offerings, and wind down afterwards with their wellness activities.
1. Red Mountain Resort — Utah
Red Mountain Resort is located in the beautiful red rock landscape of St. George, Utah. This stunning and peaceful setting is sought after for adventure and wellness activities, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balanced retreat.
Activities: Hiking, Rock Climbing & Canyoneering
Red Mountain Resort offers a bunch of adventure activities that take full advantage of the surrounding natural beauty. You can explore the rugged terrain through guided hiking tours, try rock climbing and canyoneering, or visit the nearby Zion National Park, home to famous trails and climbs. All cater to beginners and advanced adventurers.
Wellness: Spa Treatments, Yoga & Meditation Sessions
On the wellness front, the on-site Sagestone Spa offers delightful treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. You can enjoy facial or body therapies (using local ingredients) or join a yoga or meditation session to clear your mind and refresh yourself from the inside out.
2. Ananda — Himalayas, India
Ananda in the Himalayas is situated in the serene foothills of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its spiritualism, this gorgeous retreat blends majestic surroundings with tranquility, while also offering a touch of adventure.
Activities: Trekking in the Himalayas & Whitewater Rafting
Ananda is full of thrilling adventure opportunities, including trekking through the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and whitewater rafting on the Ganges River. Both can be adapted for all skill levels, so everyone is guaranteed a wonderful experience.
Wellness: Ayurvedic Treatments, Yoga & Meditation
Ananda is renowned for its wellness programs, including the Panchakarma program, a holistic detoxification process rooted in traditional Ayurvedic practices. Enjoy personalized treatments, like Abhyanga and Shirodhara, to balance the body and mind. Daily yoga and meditation sessions give you the chance to enhance your mental clarity and inner peace.
3. The BodyHoliday — St. Lucia
The BodyHoliday is located on the beautiful Cariblue Beach in Castries, St. Lucia. Imagine a luxury wellness resort surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a view of the stunning Caribbean Sea.
Activities: Scuba Diving, Sailing & Beach Volleyball
Water activities abound at the BodyHoliday If you’ve ever wanted to get your scuba license, you can do so right here, at the resort’s PADI-accredited dive center. Beginners and advanced divers can have an unforgettable experience in these crystal-clear waters.
If you’d prefer to be on the surface instead of under the water, spend some time at the ASA-accredited sailing school. Take a course or allow an experienced sailor to take you on a majestic experience across the Caribbean waters. If staying away from the water is our choice, join a beach volleyball game on the sand!
Wellness: Daily Spa Treatments, Yoga & Fitness Classes
Indulge in daily spa treatments (included with your stay). The Wellness Centre has a lovely menu of therapies and treatments, from traditional massages to state-of-the-art wellness programs. It’s easy to pamper yourself here.
Yoga and fitness classes are available daily, catering to all levels. Participate in various yoga styles, including Hatha and Vinyasa, to boost your flexibility and inner peace. Fitness classes, including aerobics, spinning, and strength training, are also freely available.
4. Kamalaya — Koh Samui, Thailand
Kamalaya is a legendary wellness sanctuary and holistic spa located on the southern coastline of Koh Samui, Thailand. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, ancient boulders and cascading streams, this island is the perfect environment for a refreshing retreat.
Activities: Jungle Trekking & Water Sports
In contrast to the peaceful wellness activities, you can leap into adventure by exploring the tropical landscape on a guided jungle trek. Water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters are also available to guests, the ideal way to beat the tropical heat.
Wellness: Detox Programs & Holistic Healing Therapies
Kamalaya’s wellness programs combine traditional healing therapies with modern medical science. The detox programs are designed to optimize the body’s natural detoxification processes, using treatments like colon hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage therapy and far infrared sauna sessions.
If you don’t want to do a full program, you can relax into a traditional Thai massage, Chi Nei Tsang (a Taoist abdominal massage) or a vital essence oil massage, which integrates aromatherapy with energy principles. Daily yoga, meditation and Tai Chi classes are also available to join whenever you want.
5. Canyon Ranch — Arizona
Canyon Ranch is surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert and the Santa Catalina Mountains. This all-inclusive offers expert programs to help you make long-term lifestyle changes, but there’s no pressure—do a little, do a lot.
Activities: Hiking, Biking & High Ropes Courses
Numerous exciting outdoor adventure activities await! Take a guided hiking tour through the scenic trails of the Sonoran Desert, a chance to explore diverse landscapes and observe local wildlife. Biking is another popular activity, with expert guides tailoring each ride to match your abilities and interests.
The high ropes courses at Canyon Ranch are a unique but fun challenge! They can be done alone, but the activity truly shines in groups. It’s an amazing experience that can help strengthen bonds, improve communication and push yourself (and each other) to your limits.
Wellness: Integrative Wellness Programs & Spa Treatments
The resort offers a range of personalized wellness pathways, including programs on fitness, weight loss, stress management and spiritual growth. Each program is designed to address specific health goals and is supported by a team of medical and wellness experts.
If you don’t want a structured program, the spa at Canyon Ranch has a luxurious array of treatments, from traditional massages and body wraps to innovative therapies like watsu and meridian-based energy work. The Aquatic Center, with indoor therapy pools, hot tubs and an underwater treadmill (must try), is a great way to keep up your fitness.
6. Chiva-Som — Thailand
Chiva-Som is a renowned wellness resort located in Hua Hin, Thailand. This award-winning destination is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and a serene beachfront; the perfect environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Activities: Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Beach Activities
Chiva-Som is the perfect place for beach lovers. Kayak or paddleboard in the tranquil waters, or stick to the sand and get your sweat on with a vigorous game of beach volleyball. When you need to bring down your heart rate, you can enjoy a yoga session on the beach.
Wellness: Personalized Wellness Programs & Spa Treatments
The wellness programs at Chiva-Som are highly personalized, catering to the individual needs and goals of each guest. You can work with wellness advisors to create a tailored itinerary that includes traditional and modern therapies, focusing on detox, fitness and stress management.
While you can choose a personal program, you can also just take advantage of the facilities and treatments. The resort’s facilities include spa treatments, a bathing pavilion with a 20-meter pool, steam rooms and a saltwater outdoor pool.
7. COMO Shambhala Estate — Bali
COMO Shambhala Estate is located near Ubud, Bali, nestled in the lush jungle surroundings of the Ayung River valley. It’s an exciting mix of luxury, wellness, adventure and pure beauty.
Activities: Rice Field Trekking, Cycling & River Rafting
Engage in outdoor activities that highlight the natural beauty of Bali. Rice field trekking is a wonderful chance to explore the picturesque terraced landscapes that Bali is famous for.
Cycle tours provide a unique cultural adventure, taking you through rice fields and past traditional Balinese temples. If you’re seeking more excitement, river rafting on the Ayung River is a thrilling experience, navigating rapids while taking in the stunning jungle scenery.
Wellness: Ayurvedic Treatments, Yoga & Wellness Consultations
The estate offers personalized Ayurvedic treatments tailored to your needs after consultations with the estate’s resident Ayurvedic doctor. Yoga is a central part of the wellness experience at COMO Shambhala, with daily classes conducted in a tranquil pavilion surrounded by nature.
8. Amangiri — Utah
Amangiri is located in Canyon Point, Utah, in the heart of the Colorado Plateau. Known for its seamless integration with the natural environment, you feel like you’re one with the desert here.
Activities: Rock Climbing, Slot Canyon Tours & Via Ferrata
Amangiri offers adventure activities designed to make the most of its dramatic desert surroundings. Go for a rock climbing adventure on the resort’s extensive sandstone mesas.
Or, try one of the Via Ferrata routes—climbing paths equipped with fixed ladders and cables—which provide thrilling and accessible ways to scale the rock faces. For a more relaxed adventure, guided slot canyon tours are available.
Wellness: Spa Treatments, Wellness Coaching & Yoga
The extensive spa features treatments inspired by Navajo healing traditions, including massages, facials and body wraps. The spa also boasts a flotation therapy pavilion, a watsu pool and a range of hydrotherapy treatments. Yoga is a daily offering, and you can opt for personalized wellness coaching if you so desire.
9. Six Senses Douro Valley — Portugal
Six Senses Douro Valley is situated in the heart of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich wine heritage. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century manor, Six Senses is a serene retreat amidst rolling vineyards and the meandering Douro River.
Activities: Vineyard Tours, River Cruises & Hiking
Immerse yourself in the local culture through a variety of exciting activities. Vineyard tours are a highlight, often including wine tastings and the opportunity to learn about traditional wine-making processes.
River cruises on the Douro River provide a unique perspective of the valley’s picturesque scenery. Enjoy leisurely cruises on traditional Rabelo boats or more modern vessels, often paired with wine-tasting sessions.
Hiking trails in the area are another more physical way to experience the natural beauty of the Douro Valley. The resort provides guided hikes through scenic routes, including paths that wind through vineyards and forests, offering breathtaking views and a connection with nature.
Wellness: Wine-Inspired Spa Treatments, Yoga & Meditation
The spa at Six Senses features treatments inspired by the region’s wine culture, like grape-based therapies that use the antioxidant properties of the fruit. Indulge in massages, facials and body treatments that incorporate local ingredients. Yoga and meditation sessions are available daily, conducted in serene settings indoors and outdoors.
10. Miraval Resort & Spa — Arizona
Miraval Resort & Spa is another spectacular resort in the serene surroundings of the Sonoran Desert in Tucson, Arizona. The wide-open space and quiet peacefulness are the perfect setting for a life-changing experience!
Activities: Horseback Riding, Zip-Lining & Outdoor Adventure Challenges
Miraval’s outdoor activities are designed to challenge and inspire. Horseback riding is a key feature, with activities such as the Miraval Equine Experience that help guests connect with their inner selves through interactions with the horses. The resort’s zip-lining experiences, like the Desert Sky Zipline, are a thrilling way to enjoy the breathtaking desert views.
For those looking for more physical challenges, Miraval offers various outdoor adventure courses, including high ropes courses and climbing walls, encouraging guests to push their limits and build confidence.
Wellness: Integrative Wellness Programs, Spa Treatments & Mindfulness Practices
Miraval’s wellness programs integrate physical, mental and spiritual health. The Life in Balance Spa offers over 30 treatments, including massages, facials and body treatments, many of which incorporate local desert ingredients.
Wellness coaching and personalized programs help you address specific health goals, whether stress management, fitness or nutritional balance. Daily yoga and meditation sessions are also available, providing numerous opportunities to practice mindfulness and relaxation in serene settings.
Unwind & Adventure
Whether you’re looking for a heart-thumping adventure or meditative wellness (or both!), you can’t go wrong with these gorgeous resorts. Enjoy stunning warm weather and exciting activities you can’t find back home.
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