Thomas Lucas Found yourself in need of a break? We’ve all been there. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life by treating yourself to a rejuvenating wellness retreat. When life gets busy, it’s important to have some ‘me time’ – and these breaks will give you just that.
From sweating it out on a hiking holiday or going on a silent yoga retreat, everyone has a different way to unwind. Start your trip the right way with a relaxing trip on one of our ferries, complete with comfortable seating, delicious dining options, a cosy cabin for overnight journeys, and plenty of health benefits.
Meditation retreat in Belgium
Home to the original wellness town of Spa, Belgium has long placed importance on the right to relax and unwind. Escape to the Belgian countryside for a dose of unspoiled nature, homegrown food and plenty of yoga at La Ferme du Bois-le-Comte. Focusing on the hatha, vinyasa, yin and nidra styles, the retreat is suitable for everyone from beginners learning downward dog to experts perfecting their handstands.
For a total reset, how about a silent weekend in a Tibetan monastery? Rather than travelling all the way to China, the Huy monastery brings the Buddhist principles from Tibet to the beautiful Belgian Ardennes. The weekend is a mix of hatha yoga, Tibetan yoga, Chi Kong, mindfulness, meditation, breathing exercises and rituals suitable for all levels. With an aim to get you feeling your best, the two days of quiet are sure to leave you completely refreshed.
Exploring nature in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the happiest countries in the world, making it the ideal location for a wellness retreat. Complete with windmill-dotted views and sweeping tulip fields, the Dutch countryside will transport you to times gone by – so escape the throes of modern life and get back to basics. For a quintessentially Dutch experience, why not stay in a windmill? Many have been converted into holiday homes near Amsterdam and Groningen, and they’re the perfect base for exploring the beautiful terrain.
If you need a total escape from the present, stay in Giethoon, the infamous town with no roads. Nicknamed the ‘Venice of Holland’, the town has evaded the pollution and noise from cars and instead uses a network of canal routes, bridges and cycling tracks. It’s a two hour drive away from the Rotterdam park and there are areas nearby where you can leave your car. Rent a boat and leisurely explore the peaceful area from the water before cosying up inside with a hot coffee and sweet Stroopwafel in hand.
Spa break in France
In France, doctors prescribe spa visits – so take control and prescribe yourself a restorative spa wellness retreat. France is famous for its focus on beauty and luxury, meaning that there are a wealth of options to choose from when planning your trip. The spa resort of Enghien-les-Bains in the northern suburbs of Paris was developed in the 19th century as part of this emphasis on self-care. The calcic sulphurous waters are said to have decongestion, anti-allergenic and bacteriostatic qualities, and you can indulge in a number of relaxing treatments there.
If you want your spa with a side of sea and sun, book a resort in the French Riviera. As the French hub of glamour, spectacular spas come complete with breathtaking views as standard. Some of the best in the area are supposedly the Thermes Marins Monte Carlo Wellness Centre in Monaco, Spa Eden Roc at Hotel du Cap in Antibes, and La Réserve at Ramatuelle in Saint Tropez.
Hiking in The Alps
Studies have shown that hiking can have similar mental health benefits to yoga and meditation, so pair your exercise with incredible views in a trip to the Alps. Whether you decide on Swiss or French, the stunning alpine scenery is sure to put you at ease. Breathe in the clear mountain air at a dedicated hiking retreat, many of which are paired with yoga. Adventure Yogi organizes trips to a Sainte Foy chalet with views of Mont Blanc, close to glacial lakes and waterfalls. Days start and end with yoga, with hiking and delicious fresh food filling all that time in between.
For an alternative hiking holiday, the Pink Pangea Writing and Hiking Retreat in Mürren, Switzerland, is designed to leave you emotionally refreshed and physically rejuvenated. Writing workshops and activities are intertwined with daily hikes to allow your mind to relax enough to let those creative juices flow. The retreat is only for women, and you’ll get to discuss creative ideas within a small, friendly group.
