I’ve visited countless retreats over the years and unsurprisingly enjoyed most of them. But the ones I truly treasure are those that, however subtly, shifted something in me.
Offering far more than great facials or massage, these were defined by intention, rigour and care. In supporting the mind, body or both, they created the conditions to heal, recalibrate and regain equilibrium.
Once rare, retreats of this calibre are now easier to find. In 2026, wellness is no longer a ‘nice to have,’ but often the reason to take the trip.
SURRENNE AT THE MAYBOURNE RIVIERA
BEST FOR: Luxe, sea-facing serenity and science
The glossy wellbeing and longevity brand linked to the world-famous Maybourne Hotel group – think Claridge’s and The Connaught – Surrenne is a sanctuary shaped around science-led treatments, tailored fitness and holistic ritual.The brand’s new retreat program is hosted at The Maybourne Riviera, perched dramatically above the Côte d’Azur – and boy it’s good. With uninterrupted views of sea, sky and horizon, the cliffside setting delivers instant perspective, encouraging clarity and calm.
Nutrition is central. Menus by nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson focus on anti-inflammatory, micronutrient-rich dishes aligned to circadian rhythms, while each retreat follows a considered rhythm to ground, recharge and regenerate. Mornings start with sunrise Lagree classes, coastal walks and sea swims to invigorate and sharpen focus. Afternoons and evenings are gentler, delivering targeted treatments and thermal circuits, while sound baths and red-light yoga support nervous-system regulation and sleep.
The next retreat runs 20–24 March, aligned with the Spring Equinox and guided by astrologer and meditation teacher Belinda Matwali. Expect electronic music, meditation and more. From £3,900 for four nights, plus room rate, surrenne.com
Somerset idyll at Shift by Camp Kerala
Shift by Camp Kerala
SHIFT BY CAMP KERALA, SOMERSET
Best for: Cool, community-led wellness
As it turns 20, Camp Kerala – of Glastonbury and Shikar tent fame – moves into the wellness space with SHIFT, a retreat that brings its trademark luxe-cool to science-led wellbeing. Hosted at the Winterbourne Estate in Somerset and developed with pioneering wellness collective TONIQ, the programme spans expert-led energy and breathwork, movement, sound-healing and cold water therapy, all set across the estates’ woodland and walled gardens. From £3,500, February 5 to 8. Email [email protected]
Six Senses Ibiza is the perfect place for a celestial reset
Six Senses Ibiza
BEST FOR: A celestial reset
August 2026 will see Six Senses Ibiza, set along the island’s calmer northern shore, host celebrations to mark the total solar eclipse of 12 August. A so-called Cosmic Alignment Week frames the occasion with talks, guided ceremonies, meditation, movement and island-rooted rituals, alongside access to the resort’s formidable wellness offering. Longevity diagnostics, regenerative therapies and targeted programs for sleep, female health and resilience will ensure the experience is as restorative as it is celestial. August 10 to 16, from £690 per night, sixsenses.com
Medical wellness meets ancient healing at Tulah Kerala
Tulah Kerala
TULAH CLINICAL WELLNESS, KERALA
BEST FOR: Medical wellness that meets ancient healing
Launching next month, Tulåh Clinical Wellness hopes to reset our expectations around medical wellbeing. Set in Kerala, the retreat blends ancient healing systems – from Ayurveda and yoga to Tibetan and Traditional Chinese Medicine – with advanced diagnostics and regenerative therapies. Bespoke stays are informed by genomic and microbiome testing and supported by delicious farm-to-table grub. Tulah describes itself as an ‘ecosystem of care’ balancing body, mind and soul while bridging healthcare, longevity and life displaying a thrillingly can-do attitude that v much appeals to this weary January bod. From £1,190 per night, tulah.life
Chenot Palace is the perfect place for a winter reset
Chenot Palace Weggis
A longstanding authority in medical travel, Chenot Palace Weggis is famed for programmes that prioritise longevity, prevention and measurable results. Based on the Chenot Method, stays combines diagnostics, targeted therapies and a disciplined nutrition plan to strengthen wellbeing. Those finding themselves footloose, fancy-free and in need of escape right now should snap up the last spot on this weekend’s highly anticipated retreat with celebrity acupuncturist Ross Barr (17-24th January 2026). Centred on an advanced detox protocols and including two sessions with the man himself – I’d be there if I could. From £4,750 for seven nights, chenot.com
Jungle meets sea at One and Only Mandarina
Jungle meets sea at One and Only Mandarina
ONE & ONLY MANDARINA, MEXICO
BEST FOR: Spiritual wellness in the rainforest
With spiritual tourism flying high, One & Only Mandarina is one to bookmark. Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast between lush rainforest and the coast, the resort offers wellness journeys rooted in local traditions – from Curandera-guided Temazcal rituals to alchemical breathwork and immersive nature practices. Emphasis is on emotional, spiritual and mental renewal, with treehouse digs adding to the sense of escape and reconnection. Try ‘New beginnings’ a three-day immersion (29-31 January 2026), focused on release and realignment. Have something that no longer serves you? Go and let it go. From £950 a night, oneandonlyresorts.com/mandarina
