Tracy takes us on a Well-Being journey of where you should retreat to this year
Close your eyes and imagine a world where time stands still, where tranquility and harmony fill the air, and where your well-being takes centre stage. In the enchanting realm of 2023, we invite you to embark on a whimsical voyage of self-discovery through the most extraordinary well-being retreats that exist, through the lens of our resident Well-Being guru, Tracy.
Prepare to be transported to idyllic destinations, where luxury merges with the healing powers of nature, and where rejuvenation becomes an art form. Leave behind the chaos of everyday life and surrender yourself to the enchantment that awaits in these carefully curated havens of one of our most famed Y Factors, well-being.
If you read on, not only will you find our overview of the best well-being journeys to take this year, but Tracy’s secret travel diary notes on each retreat!
Euphoria Retreat - Mystras, Greece
In Ancient Greece, euphoria meant to live life in a state of bliss, feeling balanced, healthy and well. Living up to its name, Euphoria Retreat invites guests to relax, unwind and embark upon a journey of self-discovery and emotional cleansing.
Euphoria Retreat is the first holistic wellness destination retreat in Greece. Nestled in the heart of the Greek Peloponnese, the retreat is immersed in a vast private forest close to many of the myths and archeological sites of the Olympian Gods. Amid such serene surrounds, guests are encouraged to spend as much time as possible outside, enjoying the healing effects of time spent in nature.
Here, ancient Greek healing traditions intertwine with modern wellness practices to create an experience that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Let the captivating beauty of the surroundings inspire you as you indulge in their signature wellness programs. Unwind with rejuvenating spa therapies, where expert hands weave their magic to melt away tension and revitalize your senses. Immerse yourself in mindfulness sessions and yoga classes, where you'll find solace and rediscover the harmony within.
Tracy’s Travel Diary Notes on Euphoria
· Experience holistic bliss and transformation
· Adopts a holistic approach to health, helping to restore physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual balance
· Treatments influenced by Greek & Chinese philosophies.
· Most programmes include a 3GL blood test upon arrival, to show how your body is metabolising its food which then allows the nutritionist to tailor make your meals
· Retreats from 3 to 21 days
· Organic Mediterranean Diet
· Set date retreats offering unique experiences. E.g. train like a Spartan warrior on Euphoria’s Spartan Spirit of Adventure programme
· Only 45 rooms so feel’s intimate and boutique
· Open year round and only 2 hours 30 minutes from Athens
· Mystras city – a UNESCO National Heritage site on the doorstep
Palazzo Fiuggi - Fiuggi, Italy
In the heart of the picturesque Italian countryside lies Palazzo Fiuggi, a magical retreat and medical spa where time seems to slow down.
An excellent team of medical specialists have come together to provide scientific wellness programmes. The highly personalised programmes will regenerate and rejuvenate each guest. The medical spa team is made up of leading scientists and doctors. They will combine ancient traditions, such as Ayurveda, with advanced Western medicine. This combined knowledge from each trusted approach will deliver elevated therapies for healing and enhanced wellbeing.
Palazzo Fiuggi is also surrounded by healing mineral waters. These special waters augment the therapies further to help create a state of optimum wellbeing. Here, ancient thermal waters whisper stories of healing and rejuvenation. Surrender yourself to the healing powers of their signature thermal baths, where you'll feel tensions melt away and your body harmonize with the natural elements. Allow yourself to be pampered with exquisite treatments, such as the soothing olive oil massages and detoxifying mud wraps, designed to revitalize and replenish your body and soul. As you explore their holistic programs, including meditation, yoga, and mindful eating, you'll discover the true essence of Italian well-being.
Tracy’s Travel Diary Notes on Palazzo Fiuggi
· One of the grandest Medical Spas in Europe
· Natural Fiuggi spring water feeds the soothing wellness spa, while the Medical and Diagnostic Centre draws on cutting edge research and state-of-the-art technology.
· Bespoke personalised programmes
· Prevention, regeneration, longevity, nutrition, and beauty are the pillars on which the team of internationally doctors, scientists and experts have developed personalized and exclusive programs based on scientific foundations and proven evidence in the results obtained.
· Cuisine by Heinz Beck, resident three-star Michelin chef
· Elite cosmetic consultant Dr. Barbara Sturm uses non-surgical anti-ageing treatments to restore your youthful glow
Lefay - Lake Garda, Italy
If James Bond ever got truly burnt out, this is where he’d come to rebalance. In the mountains above Lake Garda, Lefay pushes relaxation and luxury to new levels. Sweeping views are combined with an extensive list of facilities and treatments designed to help you embrace “complete calmness”. The process involves a series of treatments tailored to your needs – when you’re not floating in one of the luxury infinity pools overlooking the lake or tucking into the Mediterranean-influenced menu, that is. Leave your troubles at the gate. Nobody ever remembers to pick them up on their way out.
Picture yourself basking in the serenity of Lake Garda, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. At Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, time seems to stand still as you immerse yourself in the art of well-being. Let the gentle lapping of the lake's waters be your guide as you embark on a transformative journey. Indulge in their exclusive treatments that harmonize body, mind, and spirit, such as the invigorating La Luce Sul Lago massage, which blends ancient Chinese techniques with aromatic oils derived from Italy's bountiful land. Engage in tai chi, yoga, and qigong practices amidst the tranquil surroundings, allowing the healing powers of nature to restore balance and serenity to your being.
Tracy’s Travel Diary Notes on Lefay
· Set in 11 hectares of elevated park land with gorgeous views of Lake Garda
· Programmes based on Classical Chinese Medicine with modern Western scientific research with specialist therapies in natural medicine (acupuncture, moxibustion and phytotherapy), physiotherapy and osteopathy
· The spa is a temple of wellness over 4,300sqm and features six different saunas, five relaxation areas, a large state-of-the-art gym and an infinity pool overlooking Lake Garda
· Gorgeous new Sky Suites offer panoramic views of Lake Garda, privacy, and a luxurious space for relaxation. They feature a large living room, a private sauna, and an outdoor Jacuzzi® on a terrace suspended between lake and sky
· New restaurant Gramen is a plant-based menu.
Rakxa - Bangkok, Thailand
RAKxa, the world’s first fully-integrated luxury medical, aesthetic and holistic wellness retreat, is by very definition a sanctuary. Everything here has been designed to promote well-being, tranquillity and inner peace. But beyond all the mind, body, and soul stuff, they delicately and brilliantly balance wellness objectives with contemporary luxury hospitality.
In the heart of vibrant Bangkok, a hidden sanctuary awaits—Rakxa, an oasis where modern luxury intertwines with ancient wisdom. Step into a world where the urban jungle fades away, replaced by a serene haven dedicated to your well-being. Experience personalized wellness programs that cater to your specific needs, guided by a team of experts who will nurture your body, mind, and spirit. From traditional Thai massages to Ayurvedic treatments and rejuvenating detox programs, every moment at Rakxa is designed to bring you closer to your most vibrant self. Discover the transformative power of mindfulness and meditation sessions, where clarity and emotional balance await you.
After Tracey’s recent stay, she reported that ‘the level of expertise, personal service, knowledge, and dedication of the staff was exceptional. Guests are immersed in a wellness journey. Integrated Medicine at its best, Western Science, combined with ancient holistic healing. Traditional Thai Medicine, Ayurveda & Traditional Chinese Medicine. I met with all 4 doctors and each consultation was in depth, had my blood analysed under a microscope, experienced unique treatments. The accommodation is so sumptuous, the villas are spacious, set in nature and the food is delicious. Based on an anti-inflammatory diet, smaller portions but I did not feel hungry, feel rejuvenated and I think Rakxa is a game changer.’
Tracy’s Travel Diary Notes on Rakxa
· Luxury medical retreat combining cutting edge medical diagnostics with ancient traditional therapies such as Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and Energy Healing
· Bespoke programmes created by a team of experts to achieve the wellness goals of the guest
· Each programme includes a Functional Fitness Assessment in the Medical gym with expert trainers (with a background of physio and corrective exercise)
· Anti-inflammatory diet, that helps the body detox and eliminate harmful toxins, the chef works with doctors, nutritionists, and health and wellness advisors on the menus
· Varied menus in controlled portions created with produce from the onsite organic farm
· Rakxa stimulates every sense and is truly an immersive experience where you are cocooned in tranquillity.
Six Senses Vana - Uttarakhand, India
High in the embrace of the majestic Himalayas, Six Senses Vana reveals its ethereal beauty—a sanctuary where nature's grandeur meets the art of well-being. Let your senses awaken to a world of profound healing and self-discovery as you immerse yourself in the wisdom of ancient practices. Explore traditional Ayurvedic treatments that honor your body's unique constitution, guided by personalized consultations. Engage in transformative yoga and meditation sessions that connect you to the depths of your being. Surrender to the captivating surroundings and allow the Himalayan herbal baths, healing sound therapy, and blissful spa rituals to restore your body, mind, and spirit to their truest essence.
Spread across 21 acres in the Himalayan foothills, the retreat comprises 66 rooms and 16 premium suites. The standout is the Vana Suite: Spanning more than 3,000 square feet, it features one bedroom, a kitchenette, a dining room and a sundeck with a plunge pool and a 180-degree view of the surroundings. The suite is also outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with abundant natural lighting.
Tracy’s Travel Diary Notes on Six Senses Vana
· Vana offers an entirely transformative experience for reflection, relaxation, and healing
· Treatments are based on Ayurveda, Natural Healing Therapies and Tibetan healing – Sowa Rigpa
· Stays include an Arrival Wellness screening, consultation, and Departure wellness consultation
· Personalised programmes based on your wellness intention, with expert guidance and tailored treatments
· You can pack light as: Six Senses Vana provides attire to wear within Vana, footwear, summer, and winter accessories
· Close to the holy city of Rishikesh (Yoga capital of the World) Guest visit for Arti Blessings