Spas have helped humans recoup from stress since, quite literally, ancient times. (Historians believe that even Cleopatra herself was a fan.) Over the course of thousands of years, spas have changed with the times and nowadays, the typical spa getaway is branded a “wellness retreat.” These retreats could include everything from infrared saunas and laser facials to mindfulness meditations and shaman-led healing ceremonies. But looking for a relaxing getaway shouldn’t be stressful. So we rounded up the best in the country for you. Whether you’re in search of some spiritual cleansing, a new fitness routine or just a calming place where you can turn on your “OOO” auto-reply, these are the most stylish wellness retreats across the United States, where you can recharge without leaving the country.
Canyon Ranch Tucson is arguably one of the country’s best-known wellness retreats. For good reason. After check-in, you meet with a staff member who creates a personalized itineraryt, fully customized to fit your health goals. You’ll have access to the ranch’s state-of-the-art spa services and one-on-one sessions with health and wellness coaches who can advise on everything from weight loss to mental wellbeing. All in the ranch’s gorgeous desert surroundings.
Find rejuvenation amongst the cacti and mountains of the Arizona desert. Renowned as Oprah’s favorite wellness retreat, Miraval will fully immerse you in nature and southwest culture. On site, you’ll find an award-winning spa, daily wellness classes and plenty of quiet spaces for contemplation, including two labyrinths and an outdoor kiva (a ceremonial space traditionally used by the Hopi tribe).
Think of this celeb-favorite retreat as wellness bootcamp. Showing up at The Ranch Malibu means you’re about to embark on a weeklong fitness and wellness regimen. You’ll partake in daily hikes, guided fitness classes and eat a highly structured diet (yes, it’s plant-based). The Ranch promises long-lasting and transformative results – just be aware that this also includes a 5:30 a.m. wakeup call every morning.
Revitalize in Nature’s Coastal Paradise
Not everything is bigger in Texas. This secluded 40-room retreat lures visitors away from downtown Austin to its tranquil getaway, grounded by stellar spa treatments and healthy cuisine. Lake Austin Spa Resort makes the most of its surrounding landscape, with quiet nature trails and a healthy dose of water activities. (The spa has prime real estate right on the lake, after all.)
Escape from New York City to the calm of the Hudson Valley. The Barns at Troutbeck is a newly-opened oasis with services like acupuncture, massage, somatic experiencing, kinesoma and an infrared sauna. Come for the wellness but stay for the farm-to-table fine dining, led by Michelin-starred Executive Chef Gabe McMacki. The whole thing is exactly as chic as you’d expect.
For those who dread the idea of sitting in lotus poses for hours in quiet contemplation, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort offers a more lively take on wellness. At the resort, you’ll find an indoor rock climbing wall, kiteboarding classes and guided explorations of the nearby Oleta River State Park. And, in case things ever get too dull for you, you’re in the heart of Miami Beach. Check out the spa’s “Touchless Wellness” services, a menu that feels like it’s from the future with options like lymphatic massage, LED light therapy for skin and V.E.M.I. (that’s Vibroacoustic Electro Magnetic And Infrared Therapy for everybody still stuck in the 2020s).
Become one with nature at the eco-conscious five-star Primland Resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll feel connected to the natural world as soon as you enter the resort’s 12,000-acre property, as deer, pheasant and turkey make their way across the land. At the spa, you’ll find treatments combining Native American healing rituals with modern spa offerings like massages, facials, scrubs and wraps. At night, choose between the on-site observatory for skygazing or the Stables Saloon, a southern-style restaurant that hosts live bluegrass concerts.
Unplug in Style
Arguably one of the country’s most cinematic wellness destinations, Amangiri (by the inimitable Aman team) seems, at first glance, like a mirage rising out of Utah’s majestic mesas. You’ll quickly understand why this resort is a favorite getaway for celebrities (including, yes, the Kardashians). Most packages will get you a yoga class, Pilates mat class and two guided hikes every day. Sure, you can relax with one of the resort’s many wellness offerings. But staring at the sunset over the wild Utah vistas might just do the trick, too.
