Mindful May Getaways: 15 Wellness Retreats Worth The Trip Before Summer Hits

If you’re yearning for a tranquil escape before the summer rush, May offers the perfect opportunity. This collection of wellness retreats promises rejuvenation for your mind, body, and soul. From the serene oceanside havens to the lush mountain hideaways, each destination offers a unique sanctuary.

Embrace mindful living and self-care as these getaways invite you to unwind, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. Explore these 15 exceptional retreats that cater to diverse wellness needs and personal preferences, ensuring a refreshing start to the summer season.

Whether you’re a seasoned wellness enthusiast or just beginning your journey, these retreats provide the ideal setting for relaxation and self-discovery.

1. Shambhala Mountain Center, Colorado

Are you ready to transform your mental landscape? Nestled in the Colorado Rockies, Shambhala Mountain Center offers an idyllic setting for mindfulness. The center’s crown jewel, the Great Stupa of Dharmakaya, stands as a beacon of peace and enlightenment. Here, meditation and yoga unite with nature’s grandeur.

When you walk the trails or attend a workshop, each moment invites introspection. The crisp mountain air invigorates the spirit as the heart finds solace in serene surroundings. This refuge offers guided programs that help align body and mind, making it perfect for both novices and seasoned practitioners.

The Stupa is one of the largest Buddhist structures in North America, symbolizing harmony and balance.

2. Esalen Institute, California

Imagine soaking in natural hot springs as waves crash below. Esalen Institute, perched on Big Sur’s cliffs, offers this and more. It’s a place where transformational education blends with stunning scenery. Workshops range from personal growth to arts, with a focus on holistic wellness.

Staying here means embracing change. The institute’s unique position allows for a seamless connection between ocean and land, enhancing the healing process. Meditation, movement, and creative expression are at the heart of its offerings.

How about a fun fact? Since 1962, Esalen has been a hub for the human potential movement, attracting notable thinkers like Aldous Huxley. This retreat is a crucible for change, blending nature with learning.

3. Chiva-Som, Thailand

How does a beachfront sanctuary sound for a May retreat? Chiva-Som in Hua Hin, Thailand, offers a paradise of wellness by the sea. This award-winning destination combines holistic healing with modern luxury.

Guests engage in personalized programs that include fitness, spa, and culinary wellness, tailored to enhance their well-being. The lush gardens and serene beach provide perfect settings for relaxation.

Though it feels like a world away, Chiva-Som is only a short flight from Bangkok. It’s a place where the sound of waves becomes a soothing backdrop to your transformation. Fun fact: Chiva-Som means ‘Haven of Life,’ and it truly lives up to its name.

4. Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, Massachusetts

When autumn leaves dance in the Berkshires, Kripalu Center becomes a vibrant oasis for wellness. Known for its nourishing environment, Kripalu offers a plethora of programs focused on yoga, Ayurveda, and mindful living.

Here, the mind finds clarity as expert teachers guide you through transformative practices. The center’s emphasis on self-discovery and holistic health creates a nurturing atmosphere. Whether you’re attending a workshop or enjoying farm-to-table meals, every moment is crafted for well-being.

Are you intrigued by history? Kripalu is named after Swami Kripalu, whose teachings inspire the center’s mission. With decades of dedication to wellness, it remains a beacon for those seeking balance and inner peace.

5. Ananda in the Himalayas, India

Did you ever wonder what it’s like to meditate in the Himalayas? Ananda in the Himalayas offers a luxurious retreat focused on ancient wellness traditions. Nestled in the foothills, it combines the wisdom of Ayurveda, yoga, and Vedanta to rejuvenate body and soul.

At this palace-turned-spa, guests indulge in bespoke wellness programs tailored to individual needs. The serene atmosphere, combined with expert guidance, ensures a holistic experience. The panoramic views of the Ganges and lush forests enhance the spiritual journey.

Were you aware? Ananda has been named one of the world’s best destination spas, attracting those who seek profound transformation amidst nature’s tranquility.

6. Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

How do vineyards and wellness sound together? Six Senses Douro Valley, nestled in Portugal’s wine region, offers a delightful blend of luxury and holistic health. This retreat focuses on sustainable practices and personalized wellness programs.

Guests enjoy treatments inspired by the surrounding vineyards, alongside yoga and meditation sessions. The manor house, with its elegant design, adds a timeless charm to the experience.

Though famous for wine, Douro Valley’s beauty extends beyond the vineyards. At Six Senses, the emphasis on sustainability and local culture enriches the journey. Fun fact: The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding historical depth to your stay.

7. Blue Spirit Costa Rica

This retreat invites you to reconnect with nature. Blue Spirit, set on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offers a unique environment for spiritual growth and healing. Known for its commitment to sustainability, it’s a perfect getaway for eco-conscious travelers.

Whether practicing yoga or participating in a workshop, you’ll find the setting incredibly nurturing. The sound of the ocean waves and the gentle rustle of leaves create a blissful backdrop.

Blue Spirit is adjacent to a turtle sanctuary, and guests can witness the incredible sight of turtles nesting on the beach. It’s a reminder of nature’s wonders, adding magic to your wellness journey.

8. Aro Ha, New Zealand

Are you seeking a transformative journey in nature’s embrace? Aro Ha, set in New Zealand’s majestic Southern Alps, offers an innovative approach to wellness. This eco-retreat combines adventure with mindfulness, emphasizing sustainable living.

The programs at Aro Ha focus on detoxification, fitness, and self-development. Guests engage in activities like hiking, yoga, and meditation, all while enjoying breathtaking views

Where else can you find such harmony between luxury and nature? Aro Ha’s design and operations emphasize environmental consciousness. This retreat not only rejuvenates the body but also inspires a deeper connection with the earth. It’s a sanctuary for the soul, encouraging mindful living.

9. Vana, India

If simplicity speaks to your soul, Vana offers a retreat into minimalism and mindfulness. Located in the serene forests of Dehradun, India, Vana integrates Ayurveda, Sowa Rigpa, and yoga to craft a unique wellness experience.

Each visit to Vana is personalized, ensuring that treatments and activities align with your needs. The minimalist design and natural surroundings promote tranquility and introspection.

This retreat is a refuge from the chaos of the modern world, where the spirit finds peace. Did you know that Vana means ‘forest’ in Sanskrit? Here, nature and wellness converge, providing a haven for those seeking harmony.

10. The Farm at San Benito, Philippines

It’s not just a farm, it’s a sanctuary for well-being. The Farm at San Benito in the Philippines offers a holistic approach to wellness, rooted in natural healing and organic living.

Guests enjoy detox programs, spa treatments, and nutritious plant-based cuisine, all set in lush tropical gardens. The emphasis on sustainability and organic farming enhances the experience, providing a connection to nature.

Have you ever tried farm-to-table dining? Here, it’s a staple, nourishing the body and soul. The Farm’s commitment to holistic health makes it a beacon for those seeking a balanced lifestyle. It’s more than a retreat, it’s a way of life.

11. SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain

Though the Mediterranean sun beckons you to relax, SHA Wellness Clinic offers a journey into health and vitality. Located on Spain’s sun-drenched coast, this clinic merges Eastern and Western healing traditions.

Guests receive personalized wellness plans that blend nutrition, fitness, and relaxation therapies. The sleek design of the clinic, paired with breathtaking sea views, creates an atmosphere of serenity.

When you step into SHA, the focus on preventive medicine and healthy living becomes apparent. It’s a place where innovation meets tradition, crafting a unique path to wellness. Are you ready to transform your lifestyle with a touch of Mediterranean flair?

12. Zorba the Buddha, India

Nestled amidst the bustling cityscape of New Delhi, Zorba the Buddha is an oasis of calm. The retreat offers a blend of workshops, from yoga to expressive arts, all tailored to rejuvenate the spirit.

Participants can immerse themselves in meditation sessions held in tranquil gardens. The communal vibe encourages interactions, fostering a sense of belonging and peace.

For those seeking cultural enrichment, the retreat hosts various dance and music events, providing a holistic approach to wellness. A visit here promises a rich tapestry of experiences that invigorate both body and mind.

13. Longevity Cegonha Country Club, Portugal

Situated in the idyllic Algarve region, Longevity Cegonha Country Club is a haven for wellness enthusiasts. With tailored programs focusing on detox and fitness, guests can choose activities that best suit their needs.

The serene surroundings enhance the experience, with yoga sessions held by the poolside at dawn.

This retreat uniquely combines physical health with mental clarity, offering consultations with experts and personalized wellness plans. The club’s commitment to well-being ensures a transformative journey, leaving guests revitalized and balanced.

14. Bagus Jati Health & Wellbeing Retreat, Bali

Set in the lush hills of Ubud, Bagus Jati is Bali’s gem for those seeking wellness amidst nature. This retreat emphasizes holistic health, offering organic cuisine and traditional Balinese healing practices.

Guests can enjoy the breathtaking scenery while participating in meditation and yoga. The natural surroundings provide a calming backdrop, perfect for introspection and relaxation.

With its eco-friendly accommodations and wellness-focused activities, Bagus Jati offers a sanctuary for rejuvenation and harmony, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to escape the mundane.

15. Euphoria Retreat, Greece

Perched on the slopes of the Peloponnese peninsula, Euphoria Retreat offers a unique blend of ancient Greek philosophy and modern wellness practices. The retreat’s signature treatments are inspired by Greek mythology and aim to restore balance.

Guests can partake in tai chi sessions at sunset, enveloped by the scent of pine and the gentle rustle of leaves.

The retreat also offers spa therapies and nutritional guidance, ensuring a holistic wellness journey. Euphoria’s approach to well-being is both innovative and rooted in tradition, providing a profound sense of renewal.