All of us have at least one area we’d like to improve upon in our lives, whether that be having more peace of mind, a stronger body or less toxins. Whatever your concern, these exclusive wellness sanctuaries ensure that there is something for everyone with a custom-made approach.

What’s more, they’re set in some of the world’s purest and restorative locations to aid the wellbeing of their guests and enable nature to work its magic.

Aro Ha, New Zealand

Outdoor spa. Image: Aro Ha

The multi-award-winning eco luxury and wellness retreat is nestled in New Zealand’s breathtaking Southern Alps (40 minutes from Queenstown), offering programs that are designed to transform your physical and emotional health through daily habits. From infrared saunas, daily massages and subalpine trails to functional strength training and cooking classes, Aro Ha encourages its guests to detach themselves from technology and engage in mindfulness practices.

“We wanted to create a community space that fosters the connection between nature, wellness, and humanity’s need for transition to a regenerative existence,” explains Damian Chaparro, Wellness Architect and Co-Founder at Aro Ha.

Founded on sustainability and permaculture principles, the Aro Ha experience focuses on the future of human and environmental health and living in harmony with nature. Its current programs have been optimized for the post-pandemic world with research-based best practices and a balance of solitary and communal activities. Expect to emerge lean and strong as your mind becomes clearer, calmer and more present.

Chiva-Som, Thailand and Qatar

Chiva-Som, Hua Hin, Thailand

With locations in Hua Hin, Thailand and Qatar, Chiva-Som is a globally recognized leading wellness destination offering an impressive range of treatments and holistic escapes that allow its guests to choose how they spend their time at the resorts. With enticing names like ‘Nature’s Embrace’ and ‘Immune Resilience’ Chiva-Som’s approach to wellness is a bespoke holistic journey, covering all wellness categories from beauty and detox to physical fitness and stress management. Its retreat programs merge both Western diagnostic capabilities with Eastern philosophies that nourish the mind, body and spirit.

To cater to the ever-evolving needs of today’s guests, Chiva-Som has launched four new retreats that aid with gut health, ageing gracefully, immune systems and embracing nature. With a personal wellness adviser to guide you towards achieving your personal wellness goals, it’s not difficult to imagine why this sanctuary was voted the Top Destination Spa Resort in the World in the Condé Nast Traveler 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.

Forestis, Italy

Tower Suite at Forestis

Imagine being surrounded by lush dense forests, rolling alpine meadows and the majestic UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites with ample sunshine, pure spring water and a mild climate.

These are the natural elements that form the foundation of Forestis, South Tyrol’s new refuge, and which provide the ideal conditions for holistic regeneration of the body. From Celtic yoga (known as Wyda) to indigenous tree spa treatments, the five-star alpine hideaway launched in 2020 is defined by simplistic elegance and natural beauty that is apparent as much in the architecture as the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the property runs on 100 per cent renewable energy.

Guests can enjoy Mediterranean-meets-alpine cuisine prepared by native South Tyrolean Executive Chef Roland Lamprecht, who specializes in transforming freshly foraged forest ingredients into sumptuous meals. Whether you are seeking peace of mind or more energy, Forestis offers various retreats throughout the year. Some of its unique features include The Silent Room with a central fireplace, Finnish saunas heated at different temperatures, and The Tea Lounge with its own library. In summer you can even choose to drift off to sleep under the starry South Tyrol sky.

COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali

Aerial view of COMO Shambhala Estate

The residential health retreat COMO Shambhala Estate is ideally located north of Ubud surrounded by jungle terrain, rice paddies and the meandering River Ayung. Whether you plan to stay for three or 21 nights, the state-of-the-art facilities combined with a range of experts to guide you through your chosen program, will ensure that you meet your health or fitness goals.

Expect jungle trekking, hydrotherapy, delicious healthy meals, yoga and Pilates within a lush green setting. For those seeking to target a specific issue like stress management, a bespoke program with a daily treatment is available, with a comprehensive and luxurious menu.

Six Senses, Ibiza

Stunning ocean views from Six Senses

This tranquil oasis tucked away on the northern tip of Spain’s Ibiza Island, a destination renowned for its warm turquoise waters and communal vibe. Enjoy a personalized and immersive approach to wellness at Six Senses where face reading, art therapy, lucid dance and sound healing are just the start. Discover your youngest possible self at the RoseBar with a bespoke longevity treatment, or try a non-invasive yogic cleanse in the Detox program.

The retreat provides the perfect gateway to explore the very best of Ibiza from its pine forests and beach caves to its marine life and artisan villages. A highlight of the experience is undoubtedly a nutritious feast created by celebrity chef and founding father of new Israeli cuisine Eyal Shani, or a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail prepared by one of the alchemists at the Pharmacy Bar.

International guests like Marisa Peer host retreats that cover a broad range of areas, such as profound personal transformation and achieving extraordinary health. The retreat is truly one of a kind with virtual events on offer for those unable to venture quite as far as Ibiza.

Bushmans Kloof, South Africa

Alfresco sunset dining experience at Bushmans Kloof

This five-star luxury family-owned lodge and reserve is situated north of Cape Town in the Cederberg Mountains. The tranquil landscape provides the perfect backdrop for indulging in an alfresco South African dining experience under the stars. Discover bespoke health and beauty treatments that incorporate native African plant extracts such as rooibos at the Spa, which complements the healing experience of connecting with the serene environment.

Highlights include exploring the ancient rock art sites of Bushmans Kloof or guided excursions through the remarkable mountain wilderness where you can discover Africa’s unique wildlife and indigenous plant species.