21 Wellness Destinations to Plan Your Trip Around

Travel doesn’t need to be stressful. In fact, it can be downright therapeutic. As travelers continue to embrace self-care and mental health, the variety of wellness offerings around the world have expanded. Are you into the latest science? Do you prefer traditional holistic methods? Or is it all about a relaxing landscape? Whatever your preference, here are the wellness hotspots to plan a trip around, as recommended by our A-List advisors.

Asia

“The Himalayan foothills of India are gaining more popularity as a wellness and spiritual destination. Visiting the birthplace of yoga brings you to the original meaning of the word “wellness.”” — Jonathan Alder, Jonathan’s Travels

“Tibet is less about spa menus and more about spiritual grounding. Think quiet walks around sacred lakes, centuries-old monasteries, and chanting mantras by Yamdrok Lake. ” — Mei Zhang, WildChina

“Asian destinations such as Thailand, Bhutan, Bali, and Japan embrace ancient traditions and emphasize holistic living by incorporating principles like Feng Shui for harmony and prioritizing natural elements.” — Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal, Fischer Travel

Africa & Safaris

“Safari lodges are offering restorative time at the end of the day, shifting the focus from adventure to wellness—spa treatments, yoga, sound baths, and quiet moments by the pool to reflect and reset.” — Chris Liebenberg, Piper & Heath

“African countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe are blending wildlife with restorative experiences, by offering cultural exchanges, community empowerment, and women’s retreats in natural landscapes.” — Karin Jones, Artisan of Safari

“One & Only Cape Town in South Africa offers world-class spa treatments, yoga overlooking iconic landscapes, and wellness experiences inspired by the area’s unique culture.” — Marco Palermo, Authentic Explorations

Northern & Central Europe

“The Retreat at the Blue Lagoon in Iceland combines nature and luxury to create the ultimate spa destination, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.” — Livia Angelini, Scott Dunn

“In Austria, Bad Gastein is popular for its mix of old-world spa charm and sleek alpine retreats. In Germany’s Black Forest, forest bathing, herbal therapies, and cozy nature stays are making a big comeback.” — Sofia Markovich, Sofia’s Travel

“Wellness is moving outdoors. In Switzerland, hike through alpine forests and recharge with thermal spa rituals.” — Mina Agnos, Travelive

“Octola, a private wilderness retreat in Finland, allows guests to experience a Finnish sauna and cold plunge surrounded by pristine forests, free of noise and crowds for an immersive wellness experience.” — Melissa Lee, Jordan Allure Tours

Southern Europe

“Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti in Italy combines sleek design with an Alpine wellness philosophy. The spa spans multiple levels, and seasonal offerings include forest bathing, mountain hikes, and tailored energy treatments.” — Alli Widman, Avant Ski

“Thermal baths, or terme, have been a feature of Italian wellness for over 2,000 years. The oldest spa in the world is said to be Fonte delle Ninfe Nitrodi on Ischia.” — Joyce Falcone, Joyce Falcone The Italian Concierge

“Floating on the sea offers its own kind of medicine. A private yacht charter along the Kornati Islands of Croatia makes it easy to surrender to the quietude. Watch stars streak across the sky, laugh under blankets with friends, and wake to the soft crowing of a rooster. ” — Tia Lovisa Moreira, VisitCroatia.com – Tasteful Croatian Journeys

“Wellness is moving outdoors… In the Azores and Madeira, volcanic landscapes set the stage for geothermal soaks, ocean-view trail runs, and forest bathing,” — Mina Agnos, Travelive

The Middle East and North Africa

“Qatar’s Zulal by Chiva-Som is the first property of its kind in the Middle East, offering therapies that promote well-being and balance in a luxurious setting.” — Mo Noubani, The Travel Box International

“BenBen by Dhara is a wellness hotel in Egypt, located on an island along the Nile. Think sunrise yoga before your river cruise, where you float past ancient temples and connect with the energy of Egypt’s storied past.” — Marni Granston, Tribù Travel

The Americas

“The Ranch Hudson Valley is one of my favorite new wellness centers. For New Yorkers, it allows for a quick getaway to one of the most beautiful parts of the world, in my opinion. ” — Karen Magee, Valerie Wilson Travel, Chase Travel Group

“Many of the top wellness centers are in Europe, but SHA Wellness in Cancun makes a strong case for a shorter flight. The healthy fare is surprisingly delicious, too. ” — Maria Diego, Diego Travel

“In Chilean Patagonia, you can explore nature by day—hiking glaciers, kayaking in remote fjords—before returning to the Rio Palena Lodge, where you can relax with spa treatments, healthy meals, and a peaceful vibe.” — Lily Bunker, Jacada Travel

“Peru has always been ahead of the wellness curve with its combination of indigenous plant medicines and pre-colonial spiritual traditions. KiChic in Mancora and Willka Tika in the Sacred Valley are stellar options.” — Thomas Robinson, Dehouche

Wellness on the Move

“There’s nothing like getting a massage aboard a luxury train. Wonderful options include the Royal Scotsman, the Eastern & Oriental Express, and the Deccan Odyssey.” — Eleanor Flagler Hardy, The Society of International Railway Travelers