meditation travel destinations

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30 relaxing meditation retreats around the world.

Prepare to say "om" at these stunning wellness properties.

(Courtesy of Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary) |

Close your eyes, open your mind and get ready to unwind at these gorgeous destinations across the globe.

(Courtesy of Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa) |

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa: Paradise Valley, Arizona

(Courtesy of Hurawalhi Island Resort) |

Hurawalhi Island Resort: Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives

(Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina) |

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: Kapolei, Hawaii

(Courtesy of The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa) |

The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa: New Chandigarh, India

(Courtesy of ESPA at Vdara) |

Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas: Las Vegas

Banyan Tree Spa Sanctuary: Phuket, Thailand

(Courtesy of The Omni Grove Park) |

The Omni Grove Park Inn: Asheville, North Carolina

(Courtesy of Rise) |

KINKARA: Santa Elena de General Viejo, Costa Rica

(Courtesy of Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health) |

Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health: Stockbridge, Massachusetts

(Courtesy of The American Club) |

The American Club: Kohler, Wisconsin

(Courtesy of Sansara Surf & Yoga Resort) |

Sansara Surf & Yoga Resort: Cambutal, Panama

Courtesy of The Assemblage John Street Hotel |

The Assemblage John Street Hotel: New York City

(Courtesy of Spa Solage) |

Solage, An Auberge Resort: Calistoga, California

(Courtesy of The Buddhist Retreat Centre) |

The Buddhist Retreat Centre: Ixopo, South Africa

(Courtesy of Hilton Head Health) |

Hilton Head Health: Hilton Head, South Carolina

(Courtesy of Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta) |

Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta: Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

(Courtesy of The Spa at Sanctuary Beach Resort) |

The Sanctuary Beach Resort: Marina, California

(Courtesy of the Dolder Grand Spa) |

The Dolder Grand: Zurich

(Courtesy of Red Rock Spa by Well & Being) |

Red Rock Casino Resort & Spa: Las Vegas

(Courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa) |

JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa: Venice, Italy

(Courtesy of Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center) |

Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center: Bloomington, Indiana

(Nikolas Koenig) |

The Shanghai EDITION: Shanghai

(Courtesy of Well & Being Spa at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess) |

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: Scottsdale, Arizona

(Courtesy of the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort) |

The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort: Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

(Courtesy of Omni La Costa Resort & Spa) |

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa: Carlsbad, California

(Courtesy of 1440 Multiversity) |

1440 Multiversity: Scotts Valley, California

(Courtesy of Canyon Ranch Lenox) |

Canyon Ranch Lenox: Lenox, Massachusetts

(Courtesy of Skyterra Wellness Retreat & Weight Loss Spa) |

Skyterra Wellness Retreat & Weight Loss Spa: Lake Toxaway, North Carolina

(Courtesy of Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa) |

Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Spa: Scottsdale, Arizona

(Courtesy of VeraVia at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa) |

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa: Carlsbad, California

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Best Meditation Retreats

Esalen Institute is our choice for best meditation retreat for its many classes

Sara Lindberg, M.Ed., is a freelance writer focusing on mental health, fitness, nutrition, and parenting. 

Sara Clark is an EYT 500-hour certified Vinyasa yoga and mindfulness teacher, lululemon Global Yoga Ambassador, model, and writer.

Kayla Farrington is an expert fact-checker across various mediums. She has experience across several industries and is highly regarded as a research specialist.

Final Verdict

• Compare Providers
• How to Choose

Methodology

Meditation practitioners and researchers agree that meditation can help reduce stress, improve mental and physical well-being, and calm the mind and body. It does this by triggering the body's relaxation response and quieting the stress-induced thoughts that can cause a state of agitation.

For some, a quiet room in the house or a peaceful spot in the park can be enough to serve as a place to practice mindful meditation. But others may need more guidance with yoga classes or workshops, and a calm respite from their bustling cities and busy households with soothing, inspiring views and luxurious amenities. Meditation retreats offer these and more. Here, we’ve rounded up the best meditation retreats in the country.

Best Meditation Retreats of 2023

Best overall: esalen institute, best budget: kadampa meditation center, most flexible: spirit rock meditation center, best for beginners: drala mountain center, best for wilderness: alaska stillpoint lodge, best for instructions: insight meditation society, our top picks.

Esalen Institute

• Cost: $540-$8,000, based on accommodations and program (some specialized workshops are more expensive)
• Location: Big Sur, California
• Length: Most workshops are weekends, or five to seven days long

Why We Chose It

A beautiful retreat in California's Big Sur region, Esalen Institute offers mindfulness workshops, yoga instruction, forest bathing, and other classes designed for self-exploration against a backdrop of lush ocean views.

Pros & Cons

Variety of workshops

Natural hot springs

Meditation Hut and Art Barn

Rustic accommodations

Can be pricey

Dates fill up fast

The California coast is home to hundreds of weekend and week-long retreats inspired by the beauty of this cliffside wonder at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur.

Guests can choose from several three-day workshops, including mindfulness retreats for lawyers, meditation in nature, self-love and kindness that benefits all, mindful self-compassion intensive training, and mindfulness meditation. Other options include modern life, music, meditation, and technology.

Longer retreats, lasting five to seven days, take on a more focused approach to helping participants integrate meditation into their daily lives. In addition to guided meditations and silent practices, you can spend hours of the day exploring more than 100 acres along the Big Sur coastline. Esalen is also home to a community farm and garden, a cliffside bathhouse, and natural hot springs.

Kadampa Meditation Center

• Cost: Classes start at about $10; weekend retreats start at roughly $45
• Location: Glen Spey, New York
• Length: One-day classes, three- to five-day retreats available

The Kadampa Meditation Center and Tibetan Buddhist temple is an affordable retreat that offers silent meditation, classes, and hikes.

Budget-friendly

Offers silent retreats

Good for beginners

Limited onsite accommodations

Pricing doesn’t include lodging or meals

Onsite dining has limited hours

Located in the Catskill Mountains in New York, the Kadampa Meditation Center and Tibetan Buddhist temple offer both personal and group retreats. With budget-friendly options and various offerings, the Kadampa Meditation Center is a good choice for those interested in exploring meditation without the hefty price tag often attached to meditation retreats.

Individuals looking to gain a fresh perspective through quiet relaxation will find peace and calm with one of their personal Finding Peace retreats. And, if you're new to meditation or looking for a group experience, you might want to try one of the group retreats to help you find ways to integrate the practice into your daily life.

A quick weekend away includes guided activities and individual time, Friday through Sunday, with meditation workshops, hikes in the 82 acres of natural woodlands, delicious food, and more. The Kadampa Meditation Center also offers in-depth silent retreats that focus on the teachings of meditation and silent meditation. These guided experiences involve two days of teachings, followed by three days of a silent retreat.

Spirit Rock Meditation Center 

• Cost: Offers sliding scale for retreats, $140-$22,400
• Location: West Marin County, California
• Length: Drop-in, day and week-long, up to two-month retreats

Spirit Rock Meditation Center holds a variety of one-day and multi-day retreats and offers scholarships, sliding scale payments, and volunteer opportunities for those with financial constraints.

Sliding scale payments

Retreats for LGBTQ+ people available

Silent retreats available

In-person programs fill up fast

Some programs have prerequisites you must meet

Buddhist teachings, extensive time for meditation, walks in nature, and a silent and mindful environment, are the key features that make the Spirit Rock Meditation Center in West Marin County, California, such a popular location for group meditation retreats.

Spirit Rock also infuses meditation into every part of the day, including sitting, walking, and eating, which helps you better understand food and mindful eating. If you want to stay overnight, you can choose one of their residential retreats.

But if you live close by or want to stay off-site, Spirit Rock offers multi-day non-residential retreats that allow participants to spend the day learning and practicing meditation, and your nights away from the center. These non-residential retreats are ideal for newer practitioners just learning to deepen their practice.

Shambhala Mountain Center

• Cost: Retreats start at $100 to $150 plus accommodation, with sliding scale available for some programs
• Location: Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
• Length: Two-day, three-day, and week-long retreats

Drala Mountain Center provides a stunning retreat setting for studying yoga, meditation, and contemplative arts, including introductory courses for beginners looking to connect and grow in their practice.

Offers several programs for beginners

Offers leadership retreats

Outdoor activities such as hiking

No cell phone reception at the site

Lodging expenses added on during registration

10:30 p.m. curfew each night of retreat

Nestled in the mountains of northern Colorado, the Drala Mountain Center offers a variety of retreats, activities, and programs for all levels, but more specifically, to people new to meditation.

Participants can choose from guided meditations, yoga, and creativity, among other indoor and outdoor activities. While the variety of activities is set up to accommodate all levels, what sets Drala apart from other retreats is its programs focused specifically on beginners. Their “Learn to Meditate” retreats are designed for people curious about the teachings and practice of meditation.

One popular option, Slowing Down: A Yoga, Self-Care, and Loving-Kindness Retreat, is a weekend retreat that combines yoga and meditation to help guests find a sense of relaxation, peace, and calm.

Alaska Stillpoint Lodge

• Cost:  Packages start at $2,860 per night, per person
• Location: Halibut Cove, Alaska
• Length: Three-, four-, five- and six-day packages

For a real escape, Alaska Stillpoint Lodge combines wellness retreats with wilderness hikes, kayaking, paddleboarding, silent meditation spaces, and yoga.

Guided local adventures and eco-tours

Group yoga, fitness and mindfulness classes

Zen garden and meditation cabin

Meditation retreats are only available from June through September

Not ideal if you're looking for an intensive program or study format

The Alaska Stillpoint Lodge, Halibut Cove, near Homer, offers wellness retreats that focus on guided reflection and rejuvenation to nurture your soul. Wellness retreats are available in three-, four-, and five-day packages that include wilderness hikes, feasting on local, organic cuisine, silent meditation spaces, and yoga. Plus, you can participate in guided kayak tours, boating, guided meditation, massage, mindfulness classes, and journaling.

You also have the option to ditch the technology and make this retreat a digital detox. Request limited or no access to phone, TV, and Wi-Fi in your meditation cabin, and you will really experience the true meaning of silent meditation.

Because of the harsh Alaska winters, meditation retreats are only available from May through September.

Insight Meditation Society

• Cost: Sliding scale, starts around $315; extended stays have lower base rates
• Location: Barre, Massachusetts 
• Length: One-week to month-long retreats

Insight Meditation Society offers instruction and guidance in insight and loving-kindness meditations.

Option for extended stays

Courses for both new and experienced meditators

Sliding scale payment

Simple accommodations compared to other retreat sites

Limited dietary options for those with food allergies or preferences

Bathrooms shared with other guests on your floor

The Insight Meditation Society (IMS), located in Barre, Massachusetts, offers several retreat options tailored to both new and experienced meditators. IMS provides also detailed instruction and ongoing guidance to encourage personal growth based on Buddha’s Four Foundations of Mindfulness.

Guests are taught by residential instructors that deliver teachings through Vipassana and loving-kindness meditations. The facility is divided into two campuses: one for short-term meditation retreats lasting seven to nine days, and another designed to attract students wanting to stay for longer retreats.

While there, guests will spend time immersed in sitting and walking meditation, completely done in silence. Advanced levels can benefit from the high level of instruction provided at IMS’s Forest Refuge retreat.

Esalen Institute tops our list as the best overall meditation retreat center, offering a serene environment with a wide variety of courses to choose from. Located in Big Sur, California, the beautiful center has been hosting guests since 1962. With hundreds of retreat options, there’s something for everyone at Esalen.

Compare the Best Meditation Retreats 

Guide to choosing the best meditation retreats, are meditation retreats worth it.

The benefits of practicing mindful meditation are numerous. According to research, it can help reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, lower heart rate, and decrease blood pressure—all of which are physiological signs of stress.

Whether you’re looking to get started with the practice of meditation or want more in-depth instruction, meditation retreats can be a great way to de-stress and recharge while learning techniques you can use in your daily life.

Meditation retreats are not necessary. Some may find that visiting a local meditation center or following a meditation video or meditation app at home may be a sufficient way to practice meditation. But if you’re looking to disconnect from a busy household, take a break from your job, or reenergize in a beautifully inspiring location, you might find a meditation retreat a unique and memorable experience.

Some meditation retreats offer luxurious amenities—hot spring baths, vegan or vegetarian cuisine, guided hikes or eco-tours, yoga classes, spas, and massages—in a gorgeous setting. Others offer more spartan accommodations but provide opportunities to connect with nature or a community of practitioners. Some also offer workshops led by experienced instructors and teachers that can offer you the guidance you need. 

Comparing Meditation Retreats

Booking a meditation retreat can be as complicated as booking your next vacation. Here are a few things to consider before deciding on a meditation retreat.

• Location: Many retreat sites are located in more remote areas (the better to provide the peace and quiet you need), so you may need to travel by plane. Think about whether you’re willing to travel far for a meditation retreat or would rather stay closer to home.
• Cost: Rates for meditation retreats can vary depending on the type of accommodations or length of stay. Consider how much you’re willing to spend, especially if you’ll mostly be spending time in workshops or sessions.
• Type of classes, instructors: Research the site’s programs and see if they suit your needs and experience level.
• Activities and scenery: Some meditation retreats offer activities outside of meditation workshops or instruction, such as massages , hikes, or other outdoor activities. If you want to combine recreation with meditation, consider places that offer these extras. And if you’re looking to be inspired by your scenery, consider coastal locations or mountain destinations.

Embarking on Your Meditation Journey

Once you’ve decided on a meditation retreat, check out the location’s website to book early. Most programs fill quickly and may require early registration. Keep this in mind, especially if you’re looking to work with a specific instructor or teacher. Once you’ve booked, confirm what you need to bring, and keep in mind that some retreats have spotty cell reception. But most of all, relax and enjoy your stay and try to eliminate distractions so you can truly practice mindful meditation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Programs can cost less than $100 or more than $22,000. The wide range depends on the type of accommodations or length of the retreats. They also factor in what kind of activities are offered and whether food is included.

Retreats are designed to be a place to learn, deepen, and absorb meditation practice. They are typically led by instructors who give you tools and practices to move into deep reflection. They’re usually multi-day programs or workshops, although many sites offer one-day retreats without an overnight stay.

Most meditation retreats combine workshops and classes led by the retreat leader, meditation sessions (some offer walking meditations), breaks, and meals. Some retreats offer extracurricular activities such as yoga classes, hikes, or massages. Every retreat location is a little different and offers its own unique offerings.

Meditation retreats are available for beginner or advanced practitioners. Some may have combined sessions, and others might offer specialized classes. If you find that you truly need to disconnect from your daily routine to regain a sense of calm and perspective, a meditation retreat may be for you.

Yes, Vipassana is a silent mindfulness practice. Silent retreats are offered at some meditation centers, including our Best Budget pick, the Kadampa Meditation Center.

There are several meditation retreats across the country that offer a variety of programs. To narrow our search, we gathered information about the cost, location, duration of the retreats, and type of workshops and programs offered. Based on what we found, we selected the retreats on this list. These meditation retreats have garnered good reviews from previous participants and repeat visitors. They are known for their diverse programs, well-regarded and experienced instructors and teachers, and great locations.

National Library of Medicine. Mindfulness mediates the physiological markers of stress: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

By Sara Lindberg, M.Ed Sara Lindberg, M.Ed., is a freelance writer focusing on mental health, fitness, nutrition, and parenting.

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Meditation Holidays

“Quiet the mind”. It’s easier said than done. The importance of mindfulness cannot be overstated in today’s frantic world: there is not enough time, or there’s too much work, or the children come first. Looking after our mental well-being is too often forgotten, yet it is the one area that can ground us and bring us back to an equilibrium that was missing. By making mindfulness and spiritual well-being the heart of your trip, you can allow yourself to engage fully in a programme that is designed to help you transform. From Yoga and meditation experiences to pilgrimage to a destination of spiritual significance, you can find peace, calm and balance through your travels.

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13 of the World's Best Countries for a Meditation Retreat

Meditation retreats  can provide a break from life’s stressors.

But they’re about more than just relaxing. A meditation retreat can help you to check in with your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being, and lead to major life transformation by providing you with clarity about yourself and in consequence, clarity about the rest of your life and your current problems.

A meditation retreat is essential to quiet the mind, explore your inner peace, and open your heart.

Meditation retreats have expert guidance so you can get real answers and inspiration to find peace and harmony in your life or simply unplug from your hectic routine. The programs offered in retreat centers have various activities which can span from a day to weeks.

Each destination offers a unique experience for those who want to explore the different types of meditation or even for experienced practitioners.

13 Top Destinations for a Meditation Retreat

From the ruggedly impressive beauty of the Canadian Rockies to the peaceful serenity of Costa Rica's coast and the breathtaking beauty of Bali, there are meditation retreat destinations in all corners of the globe.

Most meditation retreats are open to all levels of experience. And don’t worry; you're not going to meditate all day. You will encounter different mental, physical and emotional exercises that will help you reconnect with nature and contribute positively to your health.

USA - California

The beautiful woodlands and meadows at Gomde California  retreat center are some of its charms. It’s located at a forested mountain that allows visitors to enjoy their time by being close to nature.

At Gomde, you can learn the foundational teachings of Buddha, the Mahayana, and other instructions that are helpful for effective contemplation and meditation.

Visitors highly recommend their retreats because of the professional yet warm guidance and how at ease they felt during their stay.

Discover Retreats at Gomde California

Spain - Mallorca

Being surrounded by nature's beauty makes the experience in Sharanam Retreats unforgettable. The retreat center is located in the forest where you can reach a beautiful natural port with small traditional fishing boats. The area is also ideal for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and boat tours.

Discover Retreats at Sharanam Retreats

Italy - Abruzzo

The Naramata Centre is an inclusive place for all ages. This allows anyone to practice meditation along with a supportive community.

This oasis warmly welcomes visitors and inspires people from all walks of life to be more open to personal and spiritual learning. With the help of professionals, you can have a lovely time and enjoy a variety of programs for music, arts, leadership, and health.

On their retreat, you can stay at a cozy motel-style unit, and you can enjoy a short walk to the lake and admire the beauty of nature.

Explore the Naramata village's library, museum, and enjoy the massage, yoga, meditation, and programs you can enjoy with the local community.

Discover Retreats at Naramata Centre

Germany - Hamburg

Paititi Institute  offers online and offline sessions geared towards yoga, meditation, and supporting a society of deep and nurturing true values.

Gain a deeper understanding of meditation, primordial breathwork, QiGong practice, Daoist alchemy, and other workshops that can be foundational to developing your life purpose.

The retreats are designed for those who want to embody a more genuine sense of being and empower themselves in all circumstances.

Come and see their retreats for yourself!

Discover Retreats at Paititi Institute

Ecuador - Cuenca

The El Sabanero Eco Lodge  is located at Cañafistula near Tamarindo. Settled on a lush hillside, you can enjoy the view of the majestic beaches with turquoise waters around the area. It’s easy to access the beaches from here, so drop by if you want to take a quick swim!

Anyone visiting the area will feel rejuvenated. People who visited the place shared how transformational their journey was. If you're a busy city person who wants to try a new place for relaxation, check out their meditation retreats that are good for the mind, body, and soul.

Discover Retreats at  El Sabanero Eco Lodge

Maha Vidya Yoga  has different branches around the world. One of those is located at Jobos Beach in Puerto Rico , a popular destination for surfing and canoeing. If you’re looking for a retreat with a nearby beach, this place is perfect for relaxation in a tranquil setting.

The programs at this retreat center can vary. Guests have experienced dietary therapy, gentle yoga asana, meditation, breath therapies, ayurvedic massages, cleansing techniques, and more. Your sessions can be personalized according to the examination and diagnosis of your Ayurvedic practitioner.

Discover Retreats at Maha Vidya Yoga

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10 Dreamy Meditation Retreats for Your Most Relaxing Vacation Ever

Get away from it all at these wellness centers across the U.S. and the world.

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"This period of extended meditation practice gives you a chance to focus without the usual distractions or responsibilities of daily life," says Ted Meissner, online program and community development manager for the University of Massachusetts Medical School’s Center for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society .

That doesn’t mean you spend your hours sitting cross-legged on a cushion. Instead, everything you do during the retreat — walking, eating , yoga , or hiking — is done mindfully. This constant state of mindfulness gives your body and mind the opportunity to experience its effects more deeply than shorter spurts do. "Common outcomes retreatants experience are states of calm, reduction in tension, and a lower heart rate," Meissner says.

Looking for some zen? Check out these top meditation retreats.

Kadampa Meditation Center NY

If you're a meditation newbie, this center in the Catskills of New York is for you. Kadampa Meditation Center NY offers a variety of personal or group retreats throughout the year, all held at the World Peach Temple just two hours outside of bustling New York City. Choose from 24-hour, weekend, or five-day beginner retreats that seek to help visitors find their inner peace.

Shambhala Mountain Center

Sitting on 600 acres of mountains, forests, meadows, and valleys, Shambhala Mountain Center in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado, is a nature lover's delight. The center offers an array of mindfulness and retreat offerings — such as yoga, hiking, and workshops — and it also welcomes day visitors looking for a shorter burst of zen.

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Rolling Meadows

Quiet the mind in the beautiful New England countryside at Rolling Meadows in Brooks, Maine. This center hosts small group retreats of up to 11 people. Expect to participate in yoga, shared meals, and unstructured "me" time where you can explore the landscape. The center also hosts international retreats in locations like Costa Rica and India.

What better way to rejuvenate your soul than on the beautiful California coast? Esalen in Big Sur, California, offers workshops in yoga, meditation, dance, art, and more. There's also a farm and garden that guests can volunteer at, or you can choose to zone out in its hot springs. And if you're worried about trying to disconnect, don't be — there's no cell service.

Nestled in the Berkshires, Kripalu Yoga and Meditation Center in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, lets you create a retreat that's just right for you. Choose from guided workshops or simply spend your days exploring the hiking trails, sweating it out in the fitness center and sauna, or floating in the lake.

At Ala Kukui in Maui, there's a retreat for everyone. Opt for a wellness or family experience, or try their Hulu retreat, a cultural deep dive into Hawaii where participants engage in spiritual activities and learn traditions like lei making. You can also customize your visit and fill your time with everything from yoga to reiki to massage therapy and even life coaching.

Simple Peace Retreats

Visitors have visited Simple Peace Retreats in Assisi, Italy, since 1985. Guests engage in yoga, meditation, meditative walks, and soak in ancient baths — and while trips to sacred sites are offered, the retreats cater to all faiths.

Spirit Rock

Whether you're looking to unwind for a day, a week, or even a couple months, Spirit Rock in West Marin County, California, has something for every type of schedule. What sets this meditation center apart is that most retreats are held in silence.

The Raj is an Ayurvedic health center in Fairfield, Iowa, that's known for its award-winning healing programs. There's a five-day retreat focused on the practice of transcendental meditation, but visitors can also choose more general packages that provide on a variety of wellness offerings.

Feathered Pipe Ranch

If sleeping in a tipi is on your bucket list, book a retreat at Feathered Pipe Ranch in Helena, Montana. Guests can stay in tipis, cabins, or yurts while they unplug.

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7 Meditation Retreats to Experience in the U.S.

You don’t need to go halfway around the world to escape from the stress of daily life..

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Design by Emily Blevins

Sometimes, a week on the beach is not enough of an escape from the whirlwind of daily responsibilities and social media notifications. Increasingly, stressed-out travelers are finding respite in meditation retreats—daylong or multiday workshops during which participants engage in meditation and other mindfulness practices.

But you needn’t journey to a mountaintop monastery in Thailand or an ashram in India to deep-breathe your way to tranquility. There are numerous meditation and Zen centers across the United States. Some focus on traditional schools of Buddhist teachings, such as Zen (which originated in China and is influenced by Taoist teachings) and Theravadan (which is the oldest school of Buddhism and practiced widely in Southeast Asia); some are hybrids and incorporate additional religious meditation practices (from Hinduism and Taoism, for example) and other mindfulness practices, including yoga or forest bathing. Many offer silent retreats .

Here, we’ve rounded up some the best meditation retreat centers across the United States, so you can soul-seek without using all your miles.

Guests at Esalen in Big Sur, California, spend much of their time soaking in views of the Pacific Ocean.

Photo by Angie Smith; design by Emily Blevins

1. Esalen Institute

• Location: Big Sur, California
• Visit: www.esalen.org

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean on California’s rocky Central Coast, Esalen is part retreat center, part educational institute for philosophical theory and research. It’s just three hours from San Francisco and five hours from Los Angeles , and a number of Esalen’s retreats do focus specifically on Buddhist, tantric, and other types of meditation. However, the center also offers integrative weekend and weeklong workshops throughout the year covering a wide range of topics—including dance, yoga, leadership, permaculture, and scientific inquiry.

Guests can opt for a premium room with en suite bathroom and ocean views, book a bunk bed in a dormitory, or reserve space to roll out a sleeping bag in a common area. The more than 100-acre campus includes a farm and gardens, an art studio, bookstore, and a clothing-optional cliffside bathhouse and natural hot springs. Since its founding in 1962, Esalen has attracted famous visitors and residents, such as Henry Miller, Joan Baez, Richard Feynman, and Hunter S. Thompson.

2. Drala Mountain Center

• Location: Red Feather Lakes, Colorado
• Visit: https://www.dralamountain.org

The Drala Mountain Center , two hours outside of Denver , is high in the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by pine and aspen forests. It was established in 1971 by Tibetan meditation master Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoch, who also founded the namesake secular meditation practice , which welcomes people from all faiths and backgrounds to seek an enlightened community based on basic goodness.

The Drala Mountain Center holds more than 100 programs per year, including introductions to meditation, deep dives into different practices, and multidisciplinary offerings that incorporate Indigenous wisdom traditions, body awareness practices, contemplative arts, and more. Accommodations vary, too, from well-appointed lodge rooms, to shared dormitories, to tents. The site is also home to the 108-foot-tall Great Stupa of Dharmakaya , one of the largest stupa (Buddhist shrine) in North America; it was built to honor Trungpa Rinpoche when he died.

Participants practice zazen, the form of meditation at the very heart of Zen practice, at Zen Mountain Monastery in the Catskills.

Courtesy of Zen Mountain Monastery; design by Emily Blevins

3. Zen Mountain Monastery

• Location: Mount Tremper, New York
• Visit: zmm.org

Set on 250 acres in the Catskills two-and-a-half-hours outside of New York City , the Zen Mountain Monastery teaches Western Zen Buddhism. The modern and distinctly American practice draws on the traditions of Zen Buddhism as they evolved in ancient China and Japan . Curious newbies can join regular meditators in the monastery’s weekly Sunday Morning Program or participate in a weekend retreat.

The center also offers longer programs, from one week to one month to one year, during which residents have the opportunity to learn more about integrating their practice into everyday life. Visitors stay in dorms (for short courses) or private rooms (longer retreats), and the main building, which was built as a Benedictine monastery, is a national and state historic landmark. The Zen Mountain Monastery also has a location in New York City and is currently offering online practice groups .

4. Rolling Meadows

• Location: Brooks, Maine
• Visit: rollingmeadowsretreat.com/maine-retreats/

Intimate Rolling Meadows offers a handful of silent meditation and yoga retreats each year at its restored 1840s New England farmhouse. It’s two hours from Portland, Maine , and just seven hours from New York City (and more than worth the travel time). The interdisciplinary approach here combines yoga poses, meditation, and breathwork (which has its roots in yoga, tai chi, and Buddhism) to encourage participants through personal transformation to a higher level of awareness.

Unstructured time is also a cornerstone of these meditation retreats and sets them apart from others. Guests are encouraged to stroll along walking paths and through the flower and organic vegetable gardens of the 100-acre property, relax in the sunroom or library, or unwind in the wood-fired sauna as a valuable part of the experience. Meals are vegetarian and feature produce from those same on-site gardens.

Find solitude in the Northern California countryside at Spirit Rock Meditation Center.

Photo by Stacy Evett-Miller/Spirit Rock Meditation Center; design by Emily Blevins

5. Spirit Rock Meditation Center

• Location: Woodacre, California
• Visit: spiritrock.org/homepage

Less than an hour outside of San Francisco, Spirit Rock nonetheless feels worlds away from any metropolitan hustle and bustle on its 411 acres of quiet, hilly countryside in West Marin. The primary meditative practice here is a mindful Vipassana, or insight meditation, which is rooted in the Theravada tradition. The teachings at Spirit Rock also draw on other practices, including mindfulness through breathing and loving-kindness meditation, which focuses on compassion. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re looking to dip your toe into a two-hour class or commit to a silent retreat .

6. Insight Meditation Society

• Location: Barre, Massachusetts
• Visit: dharma.org

Set in the peaceful central Massachusetts countryside about 90 minutes from Boston , the Insight Meditation Society teaches awareness and compassion through Vipassana and loving-kindness meditations. The wooded campus consists of two facilities—the Retreat Center, which offers more than 30 courses that generally last seven to nine days, and the Forest Refuge , which welcomes experienced meditators on longer retreats. Guests spend their days on these silent courses alternating sitting and walking meditations, enjoying vegetarian meals, and sleeping in simple single rooms.

Pair meditation with yoga or an Ayurvedic experience at the Art of Living Retreat Center in North Carolina.

Courtesy of Art of Living Retreat Center; design by Emily Blevins

7. Art of Living Retreat Center

• Location: Boone, North Carolina
• Visit: artoflivingretreatcenter.org

The 380-acre Art of Living Retreat Center in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina is based on the ideals of the eponymous movement started by the humanitarian and spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar in 1981. About three hours from Raleigh and two from Asheville , its multidisciplinary offerings include happiness, silent, yoga, and meditation retreats.

One of the center’s biggest draws is its Ayurvedic wellness programs . Ayurveda, a sister science of yoga, approaches wellness based a person’s constitution. There are three different constitutions, and at the Art of Living Retreat Center, guests can learn about how to improve their diets and lifestyle based on these constitutions. All programs can be paired with Ayurvedic treatments, so you can pair bodily health with mental well-being. Guests can choose between boutique hotel rooms and simpler retreat rooms.

Bailey Berg contributed reporting. This article originally appeared online in January 2020; it was most recently updated on September 16, 2023, to include current information.

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The Best Meditation Retreats in the U.S.

These oases of relaxation, adventure, mindful eating, and awe-inspiring views are going to be very popular once it's safe travel again. Until then, we can dream.

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You don’t have to journey to an exotic ashram in India a la Eat, Pray, Love for an exclusive, life-changing meditation retreat. Whether you’re traveling solo, want to reconnect as a couple, or take an unforgettable trip with friends, some incredible resorts and getaways in the States are geared to help you decompress , reenergize , and connect with yourself and the natural world.

Shambhala Mountain Center

Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

How to disconnect to reconnect : The Shambhala philosophy teaches the wakefulness of human goodness and being, and at the 600-acre Rocky Mountain retreat you’re sure to find your own meditative style among the diverse offerings of mindful practices and expansive landscape. Plus, cellphones don’t work here. Guests can create a personal retreat package or register for the many programs that range from “Running with the Mind of Meditation,” based on the best-selling book by Sakyong Mipham, to nature-based programs with an interdisciplinary focus on astronomy or botany. Stay for a weekend, a week, or a monthlong journey of self-exploration that focuses on body awareness, mindful living, contemplative arts, or personal transformation. Lodging varies from tent platforms that get you close to nature to lodge suites with modern amenities. There is vegetarian and vegan cuisine, as well as meals for carnivores, ranging from Italian to Indian.

Get outside : Eight miles of trails await for hiking, running, or snowshoeing, which transcend into the practice of active or moving meditation . Visitors also have access to the Great Stupa of Dharmakaya, a Buddhist monument that stands 108 feet tall and is open to the public on the first level.

Take me there : Lodging rates include three healthful meals a day and start at $109 per night per person. Programs charge additional tuition fees.

Hana, Maui, and Austin, Texas

How to disconnect to reconnect : True luxury and tropical paradise meet in this experiential Hawaiian destination that features an enchanted itinerary of guided meditations, nurturing yoga, luxury spa services and accommodations, eclectic and nourishing gourmet meals, and endless adventure. There are no dedicated retreat dates, so book a stay when it works for you and do exactly what your heart desires. The Austin resort is equally indulgent and only 20 minutes from the city. Surrounded by the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, the property includes a 3.5-acre organic farm with gardens, chickens, and horses. Executive chef Benjamin Baker and his staff specialize in farm-to-table cuisine with local, organic ingredients.

Get outside : Jump on a paddleboard or canoe, or try one of Hana’s unique adventures , such as a soaring the skies over Maui for a 30- or 60-minute glider plane ride; enjoying an equine encounter that focuses on nonverbal communication, self-awareness, and intention; or learning the Hawaiian tradition of throw-net fishing, passed down through generations. In Austin, mountain bike or take advantage of challenge courses between guided meditations, tai chi, and nature hikes.

Take me there : All-inclusive packages for lodging, meals, and spa/activities credit start at $600 per night per person in Hana and $475 per night per person in Austin. Extra charges for some adventure experiences apply.

The Standard Spa

Miami Beach, Florida

How to disconnect to reconnect : Soak in the Florida sunshine and positive vibes at this spa hotel that offers a spectacular lineup of meditation experiences and workshops, including garden fire-pit meditations, crystal sonic-sound bath meditations, healing through chakras, breathwork, and kundalini and yoga workshops. Inspired by a holistic approach to wellness that incorporates fitness, nutrition, and bodywork, the Standard offers a hydrotherapy playground featuring an arctic plunge pool, mud lounge, Scotch hoses, infinity pool, and hamam, plus services such as acupuncture and life coaching. On the menu, you’ll find fresh, raw, organic, and spa-inspired Mediterranean cuisine (even a hamburger and tater tots) as well as a selection of juices and smoothies. If completely immersing yourself in life’s most sumptuous treatments is your goal, the Standard has you covered—in algae-infused detoxifying mud.

Get outside : This is Miami Beach, so all the water has to offer is at your disposal, including swimming and stand-up paddleboarding. Guests can also enjoy daily sunrise yoga, martial arts instruction, and rides on rented Warby Parker bicycles.

Take me there : A range of rooms and packages are available at the Standard Spa. For a retreat and workshop schedule and to find specials on select packages.

Rolling Meadows Retreat

Brooks, Maine

How to disconnect to reconnect : Take unplugging to a deeper level at an intimate silent meditation and yoga retreat that hosts up to 11 people on Maine’s northeastern coast. There’s no small talk to navigate or distractions to dodge with the retreat’s social silence policy—it’s just you slowing down. Designed to increase awareness and simplify life, a daily schedule of multiple meditation sessions, yoga, and free time lead guests through a contemplative process that heals and connects. Talking is encouraged during guided sessions, which offer opportunities to ask questions and discuss ways to integrate experiences into daily life. Fresh vegetarian meals are prepared three times a day from teacher and co-director Patricia Brown’s cookbook and feature Indian-inspired recipes and organic vegetables from the garden.

Get outside : Hike the trails on the property’s 100 acres or take a swim in the spring-fed pond. The unstructured time between sessions, when guests are eating, resting, or walking, can be the most awakening, says Surya Chandra Das, teacher and co-director. Take, for instance, the story of a guest who tackled her first hike on a challenging trail in about 45 minutes; by the end of the retreat, that same hike took four hours.

Take me there : To register or find a list of upcoming themed retreats, which range from two to six nights and start at $595 per person.

Miraval Resort and Spa

Tucson, Arizona

How to disconnect to reconnect : There’s something innately spiritual about the desert, and Miraval provides a healing oasis for the mind, body, and soul. Meditation offerings range from beginner to advanced and include such experiences as floating meditation, mindful stress mastery, forgiveness meditation, and a labyrinth. Guests have access to enriching and diverse programming that focuses on art and photography, integrative wellness, culinary exploration, equine experiences, and, of course, meditation and healthy living. Outdoor treatment rooms and a full spa and bodywork menu rejuvenate and pamper guests with Ayurvedic, reiki, and Thai massage therapies. Mindfulness, self-discovery, and living in the moment are at the core of this luxury wellness spa, which also extends into the kitchen. Healthful, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients are featured on a changing menu with vegetarian and vegan options.

Get outside : Whether you want to stay active or jump-start your goals, there are no shortage of activities to keep you moving. Outback hikes, mountain biking, yoga hiking, trail running, challenge courses, and an all-day rock climbing excursion on Mt. Lemmon are all at your fingertips.

Take me there : A variety of packages are available starting at $429 per night per person. For a complete list of retreats, programs, spa services, and accommodations.

Stillpoint Lodge

Halibut Cove, Alaska

How to disconnect to reconnect : Discover the softer side of Alaska in a secluded lodge that features a poustinia, a silent meditation space open 24 hours a day. Stillpoint Lodge welcomes guests for scheduled group retreats and offers a cabin for private stays where guests can set their own schedule. Guided meditations, yoga, and a labyrinth for walking meditations contribute to the calm, environmentally conscious campus surrounded by majestic wilderness where guests can connect with the spectacle of nature. An organic garden and freshly caught halibut, salmon, oysters, and mussels enhance the pescetarian menu that features artful cuisine.

Get outside : Halibut Cove is located on the edge of Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska’s only wilderness park. A popular activity is hiking into the park to enjoy a prepared lunch and then set out on inflatable kayaks to explore the glacier lake’s icebergs. Every detail of your day’s adventure is taken care of by Stillpoint’s small and personable staff. Back on Stillpoint’s property, nature trails are easily accessible for hiking and picking berries in the months of August and September.

Take me there : Lodging, meals, yoga, meditation, and various other amenities and activities, including the boat ride to get to Halibut Cove, start at $500 per night per person. Services and experiences, such as spiritual direction, private yoga, or massage, are additional.

Canyon Ranch

Lenox, Massachusetts

How to disconnect to reconnect : Step into luxurious elegance fit for royalty at this grand estate located in the Berkshire Hills. Beyond the typical experience, Canyon Ranch defines spa as a Special Personalized Adventure. Add transformative programs designed to boost well-being and health to your all-inclusive package and move effortlessly from visualization mediation, spiritual guidance, yoga, the on-site labyrinth, touch therapies, and full-service spa treatments. Create a getaway that fits your style, or step out of your comfort zone with programming options like tarot card reading, astrology, portrait drawing, mandala making, cooking classes, or a Rite of Passage ceremony. Chef-created meals, including vegetarian options, are mindful and focus on health and nutrition and fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Get outside : This is New England, so guests can enjoy the outdoors year round. Hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, skiing, and snowshoeing will connect you with nature , or challenge yourself on the ropes course’s zipline and giant swing.

Take me there : All-inclusive packages offer accommodations, meals, and a variety of activities and classes. For a comprehensive list of rates ranging from two to 10 nights and to find out more about Canyon Ranch’s Lenox property or other properties, including Tucson, Las Vegas, and Miami.

The Raj Ayurveda Health Spa

Fairfield, Iowa

How to disconnect to reconnect : Ayurveda translates to “knowledge of life” and is an ancient Indian preventive health practice that incorporates meditation, nutrition, yoga, massage, and herbs to bring the body and mind into balance and a state of healing. Located on 100 acres of countryside in Fairfield, Iowa—also home to Maharishi University— the Raj  is part of the offical town of Vedic City, where the Transcendental Meditation (TM) program is taught and practiced. Guests have the option of visiting the health spa for a complete Ayurvedic treatment that includes wellness sessions, daily two- to three-hour cleansing spa treatments, yoga classes, lectures, organic vegetarian meals, and meditation. There is also a four-day Transcendental Meditation retreat to learn the practice and enjoy the various benefits of the Raj, including gem light therapy, anti-stress massage, and aromatherapy.

Get outside : Strenuous physical activity is discouraged while going through the full Ayurvedic treatment program, but guests can stroll the walking trails around the tranquil property day or night. Gentle yoga is also offered daily.

Take me there : Packages range from three to 21 days or longer and start at $2,200 per person. Additional services, treatments, and programs are available at extra cost.

The Esalen Institute

Big Sur, California

How to disconnect to reconnect : Free your inhibitions while you raise your self-awareness and explore human possibilities in the awe-inspiring setting of Northern California’s spiritual coast . Various meditation practices are offered here, from Buddhist to tantric, depending on the workshop and instructor. A meditation roundhouse is located on the scenic 27-acre property, where guests can also enjoy cliffside hot springs (clothing optional), ocean views, healing arts, and soul-seeking meditation and mindfulness workshops that incorporate a hybrid of interdisciplinary themes, such as yoga, music, self-connection, stress-reduction, and fulfilling relationships between fathers and sons. Part of the experience at Esalen is its historic lodge that has hosted legendary guests like Henry Miller, Steve McQueen, Joan Baez, and Hunter S. Thompson. Family-style communal dining at the lodge features vegetarian and gluten-free options, organic produce from the on-site garden, and locally sourced eggs and fish.

Get outside : Although the California vibe is more Zen than adrenaline, guests can run along the Pacific Coast Highway, go on a nature hike, or enjoy the ocean by kayaking and surfing.

Take me there : Packages range from two to seven days; monthlong work-studies are also available. All-inclusive weekend workshops in a private suite start at $1,750 per person.

Omega Institute for Holistic Studies

Rhinebeck, New York

How to disconnect to reconnect : Just a train ride from New York City beckon six learning paths spanning health, healing, and sustainable living to awaken your spirit. The 200-acre Hudson Valley campus offers more than 350 workshops, yoga teacher training, and rest and rejuvenation retreats each year. Meditation, both guided and self-practice, is integrated into classes like Zen archery, moving meditations, or meditation-focused workshops that teach techniques such as Vipassana meditation. A sacred space called the Sanctuary is open for daily group meditation and contemplation hours. Omega’s two- or five-day R&R retreats are perfect if you want to release and unplug without a set schedule. Yoga, shamanic healing, acupuncture, massage, henna, facials, and chakra portraits are some of the services and treatments offered in the Wellness Center. An integral emphasis on sustainability and farm-to-table is reflected in Omega’s dining hall, which serves mostly vegetarian meals and is three-star certified by the Green Restaurant Association.

Get outside : Wooded trails and country roads provide the perfect setting for a walk, run, or hike. Explore the quiet 80-acre Long Pond Lake by kayak, canoe, or rowboat, and take a swim in warmer months. If you decide to adventure off campus, be sure to ask about nearby hot-air balloon rides and state parks.

Take me there : Two-night single cabin room accommodation packages, which include three meals a day, start at $662 per person. Depending on the program, workshops and specialty services have additional tuition and fees.

• Massachusetts
• Mental Conditioning
• Mindfulness

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The 17 Best Wellness Retreats in the World

By Nicholas DeRenzo and Betsy Blumenthal

The past few difficult years have represented a complete sea change in the way we think and talk about wellness . Sure, a great massage or facial will never go out of style—but it’s just one piece of the puzzle in keeping our minds as well cared for as our bodies. Long walks out in nature and arts and crafts sessions can be just as restorative as a punishing workout, and a nourishing meal (with an excellent glass of wine) might be just what the doctor ordered.  Whether you're into hiking or yoga, or just need a nap-inducing Swedish massage, book one of these wellness retreats in 2023 to rejuvenate both mind and body.

From the succulent-scattered wilds of the Sonoran Desert to the thrumming heart of Midtown Manhattan (trust us), these are 15 of our favorite wellness retreats where you can get away from it all—while getting back to yourself. 

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

COMO Parrot Cay — Turks and Caicos

It's hard to imagine anything more reinvigorating than a few days at this health-centric resort , huddled away on its own private island in the Caribbean. Guests should take full advantage of the brand's wellness program, COMO Shambhala, which promotes good health through such offerings as enzyme-rich cuisine, a medley of fresh and creative courses like zucchini carpaccio and pineapple sundaes; complimentary yoga and pilates classes (the yoga retreats offered throughout the year are led by a rotating cast of characters, including yogi superstars the Curry Sisters); and holistic therapies, including reflexology and Ayurveda. For those who are a little more adventurous, the resort will also coordinate fishing and diving trips; biking excursions on larger, nearby islands; windsurfing lessons, and more. Go enjoy it—we'll be here at the spa's infinity pool , overlooking the ocean.

CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa Arrow

Scottsdale is certainly not wanting for covetable destination spas, but if you’re looking for the most truly immersive, you’ll have to head out to the Sonoran Desert foothills and the appropriately named neighboring town of Carefree. After a morning intention ceremony, you’ll embark on a choose-your-own-adventure of wellness options that might include a self-guided meditation walk along a stone labyrinth path, a sunset sound bath, or a spin through the aqua therapy circuit. But the resort also takes full advantage of its Sonoran surroundings, meaning you might find yourself stand-up paddleboarding in Tonto National Forest or gaining 1,236 feet of elevation on the blood-pumping hike up to Tom’s Thumb. A “zero deprivation” approach to dining means out with the guilt-inducing diet language and in with craveable, Southwestern-tinged fare like elote corn ribs, zucchini enchiladas, and plenty of Arizona-grown wine. 

Arctic Bath Hotel Arrow

Wellness has never looked as fairytale-like as it does at this Nordic hideaway deep in Swedish Lapland , where the bird’s nest–shaped spa floats atop the Lule River and minimalist, glass-fronted cabins are scattered on the banks or among the birch trees. The chilly waters of that very river make for a bracing last stop on a circuit of the spa’s dry and steam saunas, though if you’re looking for something a little less invigorating, there’s always the outdoor hot tub, which sits beneath the midnight sun in summer and the aurora borealis in winter. Beyond the confines of the property, you can embark on a moose safari, a snowshoe hike, ice-fishing, or dog-sledding. And remember: Back at camp you’ll be greeted with a nourishing meal of local ingredients that might include reindeer, oysters, foraged mushrooms, and a local caviar known as Kalix Löjrom.

Six Senses Fort Barwara Arrow

Don’t let the militaristic exteriors fool you! Although this Rajasthani fortress was constructed in the 14th century to keep out invaders, it was reborn as the newest  Six Senses sanctuary , opened in October 2021. In a way, it serves the same purpose: Its five-foot-thick rock walls, some of which rise 20 feet, successfully repel the onslaught of external stressors from which you’re trying to escape. Unsurprisingly, Ayurveda and yoga feature heavily in the wellness program here, while spa treatments incorporate such regional ingredients as saffron, Kashmir lavender, and mogra (aka “the queen of jasmines”). And there are plenty of ways to slow down outside of the treatment room, including Hindu blessings and rituals in the adjacent temple and rewilding walks around the grounds to see how horticulturists are working to attract back native birds, leopards, and jackals. 

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

The American Club — Kohler, Wisconsin

If you generally associate Kohler with stainless steel bathroom appliances, you're not alone—but we're here to tell you that the all-American company offers much more than a beautiful faucet. The brand also has a stake in the hospitality game, with a resort that doesn't stray too far from its roots—literally. The main building of The American Club , set in Kohler, Wisconsin, formerly served as housing for the workers toiling across the road in the manufacturing plant (the latter is still there, in case you're wondering). The resort feels a little like an upscale college campus : the cluster of stately, stone, and brick buildings includes posh, modern rooms; five in-house restaurants, and plenty more within walking distance; and a separate spa and golf course, both accessible via a complimentary shuttle (though you can probably walk).

BodyHoliday Cariblue Beach — St. Lucia

With week-long programs and an abundance of fitness courses and spa treatments on offer, the all-inclusive BodyHoliday resort—founded on the key pillars of relaxation, restoration, exercise, and healthy eating—is ideal for a whole host of rejuvenation-seeking travelers. Guests enjoy​​ daily spa treatments, some of which are included in the cost of booking (try the Heaven and Earth treatment, a bliss-inducing combination of scalp, hand, and foot massage), and can sample an eclectic mix of activities including archery, Spoga (spinning and yoga, of course), tai chi, tennis, and more. It doesn't hurt that it sits on the crystalline beaches of St. Lucia, either—so if you'd rather hang back and catch up on your reading, that's a-ok, too.

Naviva, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita — Mexico

The name of the game at this just-opened Four Seasons tented camp outside of Puerto Vallarta is “biophilic design,” which is all about the healing power of dropping guests directly into nature: That means each open-air tent comes with an outdoor shower, plunge pool, and hammock, perfect for taking in the surrounding 48 acres of jungle. Inspired by the shape of ceiba tree seeds, the two “spa pods” include their own personal gardens and timber soaking tubs, while the  temazcal  (a pre-Hispanic sweat lodge) is the place where mindfulness meets mysticism as you’re guided by a healer, or  curandero . During your time out here, you might hike to the Aztatlán ruins, partake in a cliffside yoga class, or sample “seacuterie” made from the bounty of the nearby Pacific. 

Six Senses Douro Valley — Portugal

Set on the terraced slopes of one of the world’s oldest wine regions, Six Senses Douro Valley recasts a 19th-century manor house with unexpectedly modern and colorful flair—making it much more than a place to sleep off one too many glasses of vinho (and they've got that in spades—see the resort's comprehensive wine cellar, or the by-the-glass machine at the bar). It's hard to one-up the offer of wine on tap , but the spa is certainly in the running: The complex has everything, from acupuncturists to aerial yoga, and even professionals to help you craft your own customized wellness program while you're there, all to help you ease back into the nine-to-five groove once you leave.

Winvian Farm — Morris, Connecticut

Winvian Farm might be the perfect retreat for that jaded office cube-dweller, who sorely needs to detox—or, at least, to be distracted from their inbox for a day or two. The design of each of the 18 cottages (and a single suite) on the 113-acre Relais & Chateaux property is based on a different, and fanciful, concept, like the Library or Treehouse; in the Camping cottage, for instance, stars illuminate the ceiling, and marshmallows are laid before the fireplace for roasting. Winvian's Executive Chef, Chris Eddy, cranks out clean, bold, farm-to-table fare with organic produce plucked from the farm's own gardens—but make sure to pair it with a velvety glass of Dominus 2008 Cabernet from the farm's well-stocked wine cellar (their selection spans roughly 13 countries and 37 regions). Oh, and that  magnificent, 5,000-square-foot spa is open to both guests and drop-ins—so don't be surprised if you see some locals looking for a little R&R.

Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt — Austria

The  Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt , a sprawling alpine chalet at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser mountain, is like the postcard-perfect set of  The Sound of Music . To make the most of the crisp mountain air, take a six-mile hike over to Schwarzsee Lake, one of the warmest in the Alps, where you can  set up a picnic or take a dip. If youre not trying to venture too far off course, but still want to take advantage of those snow-capped views, we’d suggest a swing at the on-site driving range, set up against the mountains. Or, better yet, take a lesson at the resort’s own ski school in the winter. A meal at the cozy but sophisticated Stangl-Alm, with a fireplace and top-to-toe wood paneling providing an ideal backdrop for shaking off the cold and resting your legs after crossing the Alps.

Lake Austin Spa Resort — Texas

A stay at  Lake Austin Spa Resort may just ruin you for good. Once you get a taste of its organic garden’s fresh bounty, which the resort uses in its seasonally influenced offerings, your regular store-bought veggies probably won’t cut it. Guests also rave about the retreat’s Culinary Experience program, which sees celebrity chefs invited in to whip up dinner and teach guests a lesson in DIY gourmet meals. If you can manage to set down your fork for a minute, you'll be richly rewarded: The resort's 25,000-square-foot LakeHouse Spa offers more than 100 massage, body, and skincare treatments and therapies, which you can enjoy from the comfort of an outdoor garden cabana or a screened-in veranda, with a handful of treatments incorporating organic herbs from the resort's garden. We see you, rosemary-citron scrub.

Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat & Health Spa — Ainsworth Hot Springs, British Columbia

You may be on vacation, but there’s no reason you can’t throw some self-improvement in the mix, too. At  Mountain Trek Fitness Retreat Resort & Health Spa , way up in the clean, clear air of British Columbia, you can embrace the granola life with day-long hikes led by one of the eager local guides, and sunrise yoga classes taught by certified professionals. Everything here is targeted toward achieving optimal health, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be shoving kale down your throat, or scraping bark off the nearest tree to kill the hunger pangs. Quite the contrary: The on-site nutritionist and head chef develop locally sourced, nutrient-rich meals, with lemon ricotta pancakes just one of the many fan favorites.

Cal-a-Vie — Vista, California

If this past year left you feeling overlooked and unattended to (hey, we all need a little TLC now and then), then  Cal-a-Vie has the antidote. With a staff-to-guest ratio of 5 to 1, you won't want for attention at this 32-villa retreat in the Southern California countryside. But don't let this charming,  French  Provençal-styled resort fool you: This is a no-nonsense place, where you can wake to a sunrise hike and follow it up with any combination of cardio kickboxing, spinning, Zumba, water volleyball, or piloxing (dance, pilates, and boxing), and soothe your sore muscles with a trip to the world-class spa—past patrons rave about the bamboo massage and the coffee scrub. Pair these pampering treatments with an on-site nutritionist and health-conscious chef, and you’ll leave feeling like a million bucks.

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa — Baden-Baden, Germany

Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa , set in a valley in the Black Forest Mountains overlooking the tree-lined Lichtentaler Allee, has been around for 150 years for a reason: Not only is the grand dame resort done in classic country house style, but it also neighbors the historic Baden-Baden thermal baths and springs, offering maximum opportunities for rejuvenation among its guests. Compound that with the hotel’s medical spa—how many old-world retreats offer aesthetic dentistry and dermatology services behind their wrought-iron balconies?—and you’re on the fast-track to wellness. There's also the rehabilitated  Villa Stéphanie , a 15-room residential spa annex off the resort's larger main building. Guests looking for a more intimate experience will surely appreciate the draw of a facial on one of the many terraces overlooking the bank of the river Oos.

Aro Hā Wellness Retreat — Glenorchy, New Zealand

Overlooking the otherworldly expanse of Lake Wakatipu, in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, the intimate, 20-room  Aro Hā Wellness Retreat is close to perfect. The self-sustaining retreat’s biggest draw might just be its  epic setting —eco-friendly suites and singles are surrounded by colossal sapphire lakes and snowcapped peaks—but its rejuvenation offerings are also impressive. Try the Wellness Adventure programs for a New Year’s lift—a little yoga here,  a little hiking there—and a whole lot of wholesome veggie cuisine should have you feeling fresh in no time. But it’s not all body talk: A stay at Aro Hā will teach you some tricks for mindfulness, too. All the better to keep from zoning out once you’re back to your desk (though we can’t guarantee you won’t daydream about the views).

Bushmans Kloof — South Africa

Located on 18,500 acres of wide open plains at the foot of the Cederberg Mountains, Bushmans Kloof isn't wanting for extraordinary surroundings. In fact, the resort has enough impressive credentials to make your head spin: The natural heritage site on which it sits is home to more than 150 kinds of birds, 750 species of plants, and 35 species of mammals; and its nook-and-cranny caves are the canvases for over 130 unique rock art sites, some as old as 10,000 years, allowing you to conveniently check your 'nature,' 'history,' and 'art' boxes all in a single go. The spa isn't too shabby, either: Book a couples massage in the riverside gazebo, preferably while the sun is setting over the nearby Boontjes River.

Aman New York Arrow

You might not expect Midtown Manhattan to house one of the most relaxing new resorts in the country, but if anyone can pull off a bit of alchemy, leave it to Aman. Occupying the 101-year-old Crown Building, the dimly lit, 83-suite urban escape is all about serenity, and its minimalist interiors—parquet floors, Belgian Blue marble, warm copper light installations—feel miles away from the gaudiness of Trump Tower across the street. The 25,000-square-foot spa sprawls over three floors and is kitted out with wellness experiences both high-tech (a cryotherapy chamber and infrared detox sauna) and low (a fireplace-lined, 65-foot-long pool). To feel truly pampered, splurge on one of the two private “spa houses,” multi-room suites that you and your closest friends can rent out for a half or full day of treatments. One includes a hammam, the other a Russian-inspired banya, and both feature spacious outdoor terraces with a hot bath and a cold plunge pool. You’d never guess you’re just a few stories up from the scrum of 57th Street. 

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Luxury Meditation Retreats

Discover the world’s best meditation retreats.

Tap in to the transformative benefits of being present with a luxury meditation retreat for stress and mindfulness.

Learn relaxation techniques and breathwork from expert gurus and specialists, empowering your mind and finding release from the stresses of everyday life.

Health Travel handpicks the world’s best meditation retreats, crafting bespoke itineraries inspired by ancient practises from all corners of the globe. Discover the tools of the mind with pranayama, Zen meditation and mindfulness with retreats hosted at the world’s best wellness hotels.

Inner Emotional Harmony at Euphoria Retreat

Euphoria Retreat in Greece is a spiritual haven of wellbeing which focuses on holistic healing for the mind, body, and soul.

Relax & De-Stress at Euphoria Retreat

Relax & De-Stress mental health retreat is combines meditative practices and gentle movement to calm and rebalance energy at Euphoria Retreat in Greece.

Yoga For Life at Chiva Som

This programme delves deep into the ancient practice and philosophy of yoga, offering a sanctuary to rejuvenate the body, bring tranquillity to the mind, and heal the spirit through heightened awareness.

Anti-Stress & Mindfulness at Longevity Health & Wellness

Experience a unique holistic health journey with the Longevity Anti-Stress & Mindfulness programme.

Personal Yoga Synergy at Kamalaya

Embrace a journey of physical rejuvenation, mental clarity, and spiritual growth, all encapsulated in Kamalaya’s tranquil setting.

Mindfulness & Stress Management at Amanpuri

Find inner peace through expert guidance with Mindfulness Stress Management, a luxury mental health retreat hosted at Amanpuri in Phuket, Thailand.

Discover Yoga at Six Senses Ninh Van Bay

At the Discover Yoga Program offered by Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, individuals can immerse themselves in the practice of hatha yoga and explore the numerous benefits of achieving body-mind balance.

Yoga & Mindfulness Programme at Euphoria Retreat

Experience the fully-tailored Yoga & Mindfulness retreat hosted at Euphoria Retreat, home to the largest and most impressive luxury spa in Greece.

Mindfulness & Emotional Balance Retreat at Revivo

Build better mental health and work towards finding balance at REVĪVŌ Bali in Indonesia.

Beauty & Relax Retreat at Haritha Villas & Spa

The Beauty & Relax programme at Haritha Villas & Spa, Sri Lanka, offers a unique journey to enhance your inner and outer beauty.

Sayanna Yoga Retreat at Epic Sana

Journey into a realm of tranquility and self-discovery with the Sayanna Yoga Retreat at Epic Sana.

Your Wellness Journey at StolenTime, St. Lucia

Embark on a holistic wellness journey at StolenTime, St. Lucia, set in a captivating Caribbean environment.

Discover meditation with Health Travel

Meditation is one of the most accessible stress-relieving techniques. By giving the mind a task, we can train the mind to be fully present through focusing on one thing at a time, helping to recognise and understand thoughts as they come and go. Health Travel’s luxury meditation retreats are beautifully set deep in nature, from the forests of Umbria in Italy to the beaches of Mexico. Reduce anxiety, chronic pain and high blood pressure and give the mind the care and attention it deserves. With trained meditation practitioners and passionate guides providing the tools, you can begin to re-establish your connection with your inner self through an unforgettable meditation retreat.

Pranayama, forest bathing and mindfulness

Experience holistic wellbeing in the world's most unrivalled settings, fully tailored to your own personal wellness goals. Our retreats are flexible in dates and length, with programmes for short weekend breaks and others for extended, more immersive journeys. Restore inner peace with the best expert-led techniques, beginning with Balinese or Hindu Pranayama and rebalancing with Hatha and flowing Vinyasa, designed for sustainable development. Soothe the central nervous system and release tension, cultivating lasting harmony between body and mind and a lasting resistance to stress, bringing physically and mentally beneficial practices that can be incorporated into daily life and routines back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Meditation Retreat is a holistic experience where one is immersed in a peaceful, tranquil setting. They provide an opportunity for one to explore self-care without the distractions that occur in everyday life. Meditation retreats often include daily mediation practises, such as yoga, breathing exercises and sound healing and are often accompanied with healthy nutrition to help provide an overall boost to wellbeing.

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Mindful Travel Destinations: Journeys Enhanced with Awareness

Mindful travel is not just about the physical journey to new places but also about the internal journey towards peace and wellness. It’s an approach to travel that prioritizes presence and awareness, allowing you to connect more deeply with your surroundings and yourself. Engaging in mindful travel heightens your senses to the experiences around you, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching adventure.

As you travel, mindfulness encourages you to absorb the subtleties of the culture, environment, and people you encounter. It’s about finding balance amidst the excitement of exploration—savoring the quiet moments just as much as the lively ones.

Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins, savoring local cuisines, or simply watching the world go by from a park bench, mindful travel amplifies the significance of each experience.

Incorporating mindfulness into your travel experiences promotes a sense of well-being that transcends the duration of your trip. By being fully present, you create lasting memories that are vivid and meaningful, enabling a deeper appreciation for the world and its diverse tapestry of life.

As you venture on your next journey, embrace mindful travel to transform simple trips into profound experiences that resonate long after you return home.

What is Mindful Travel?

Mindful travel is about immersing yourself fully in the experiences offered by your chosen destination.

By slowing down, you engage more deeply with your environment, sparking a sense of wonder and discovery that enriches your journey .

It’s an opportunity for self-discovery by observing how your thoughts and emotions shape your experiences.

Being present is a crucial aspect of mindful travel, as is educating yourself about the local culture and history to enhance your understanding and appreciation of the place. Building connections with locals enriches your trip with stories and perspectives unique to the community.

Often, travelers have a packed itinerary , moving quickly from one attraction to the next, which can prevent them from savoring each moment.

Instead of rushing through a checklist of tourist spots, mindful travel encourages you to  savor each experience : take deep breaths, engage thoughtfully, and avoid feeling rushed.

Mindfulness in travel is about heightened awareness and observation. Notice the intricacies of architecture, the nuances of local flavors, and the emotions stirred as you roam a new locale.

Engaging with your environment and the local community in this way can profoundly impact your memory and overall satisfaction.

Mindful travelers are also slow travelers? In general, yes, but with a difference. You are more engaged and fully living your adventure by being attentive, observant, and present.

Mindful travel can be of many types -sipping coffee in a local café, hiking a mountain, or exploring a colorful market. It’s about how these moments influence you and create lasting memories. 

Let’s see some destinations for mindful travel around the world.

Nature Immersion: Deepening Connections in Patagonia

Experiencing the  expansive landscapes  of Patagonia offers a profound opportunity to deepen your connection with nature. As you traverse this remote and beautiful region, the bustling noise of city life vanishes, allowing nature to foster a sense of  inner peace . 

Amidst the majestic mountains and stillness, you can cultivate a meditation or yoga practice that resonates with the earth’s rhythms. You can have meditation  moments by the serene shores of glacial lakes and practice yoga on the gentle grasslands under the vast sky.

Resting in Patagonia is not about idleness but about allowing oneself to be fully present. Each breath clears the mind as you inhale the crisp, pure air, priming it for reflective thought or creative endeavors such as  photography .

For keen photographers, the vast vistas and unique wildlife provide endless inspiration.  Traveling through this untamed wilderness , you will capture moments of untouched beauty while exploring your inner self.

Cultural Immersion: Mindfulness Through Tradition in Kyoto

When traveling to Kyoto, embracing mindfulness can enhance  your cultural immersion . The city offers many ways to connect with Japan’s ancient traditions sustainably . As we said, mindful travel is not just about sightseeing; it’s about engaging in experiences that allow you to be fully present, absorbing the essence of this historical city.

Here are some of the cultural experiences that you can have in Kyoto:

• Traditional tea ceremony : Embrace tranquility as you partake in a traditional tea ceremony. Learning about the meticulous preparation of matcha encourages patience and attentiveness. It’s a moment to clear your mind and appreciate the now.
• Zen meditation : Kyoto’s Zen temples serve as gateways to serenity. Sitting sessions, often guided by experienced monks, teach techniques to center your thoughts, fostering a state of Zen well beyond your travels. There are few experiences more mindful than this one.
• Kimono wearing : Dressing in a kimono isn’t simply about aesthetics. It’s a mindfulness practice, respecting the art of wearing traditional clothing. As you—quite literally—wrap yourself in the fabric of Kyoto’s history, you can reflect on the city’s cultural significance.

• Guided cultural tours : Consider joining guided walks through historic districts like Gion to deepen your understanding. Tips from knowledgeable guides can help you appreciate the nuances of Kyoto’s cultural landscape.

Adventure Travel: Mindful Hiking in Curaçao

In Curaçao, swap the sea for scenic trails and embrace mindfulness with every step on your hiking adventure. As you ascend the island’s unique landscapes, allow the rhythmic motion of your hike to anchor you in the present moment .

The trails of Curaçao will lead you through a vibrant mosaic of flora and fauna, past historical plantation estates, and to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Caribbean. Quiet your mind with the sounds of nature, from the rustling of leaves to the songs of tropical birds, turning your hike into a meditative experience .

As you navigate the trails, practice mindful breathing and observation . Pause to appreciate the cactus-strewn hillsides, the panoramic sea views, and the feeling of the sun-warmed earth beneath your feet.

Capture the beauty of Curaçao’s wilderness with your camera, creating visual memories to reflect upon. For the best hiking trails on this Caribbean island, consider bookmarking this guide to the top treks in Curaçao .

Whether seeking solitude or an invigorating physical challenge, hiking in Curaçao can be as tranquil or thrilling as you make it. These mindful excursions ensure your connection to the landscape is as powerful as the views you’ll encounter.

Wellness Retreats: Holistic Rejuvenation in Bali

Few places worldwide are more renowned than Bali as a destination for those seeking holistic wellness . Its tranquil environment is the perfect backdrop for  self-care , providing a haven for the body and spirit. Amongst lush greenery, you can embark on a transformative wellness journey.

Yoga  is a cornerstone of many Balinese retreats, catering to beginners and advanced practitioners. With guided sessions in the open air, you can improve your physical posture while achieving mental clarity.

Incorporating  guided meditation , these retreats help you harness mindfulness, allowing for profound relaxation and rest. This practice aids in silencing the mind and fostering an inner peace that resonates well beyond your stay.

The commitment to  wellness  continues after physical and mental exercises. Nutritious cuisine, often organic and locally sourced, complements your journey, fueling your body and enhancing the retreat’s health benefits.

For an experience that encapsulates the  island’s best wellness retreats , consider places that offer tailored wellness programs and authentic Balinese healing techniques. These programs are designed to rejuvenate, blending traditional practices with modern methodologies.

Meaningful Connections: Purposeful Engagement in Nepal

Spend some time in Nepal, offering meaningful support to sustainable initiatives and gaining insights into local customs.

By engaging in community-driven activities —such as education, infrastructure development, or ecological preservation—you cultivate a deeper understanding of local life. This conscious approach to experiencing new places enables you to learn from genuine encounters and build relationships with those you assist, fostering a feeling of peace and communal kinship.

Nepal’s vast landscapes and vibrant communities offer a rich tapestry for those who wish to contribute:

• Engage with rural communities
• Empower local efforts
• Experience diverse ecological zones, from the Terai jungles to the high Himalayas

As you engage in these activities, it’s important to be mindful of the broader impact of your presence and choose to support projects that genuinely benefit the local environment and its inhabitants, steering clear of engaging with unethical practices or potentially harmful industries like the  bogus orphan trade .

Slow Travel: Savoring Life in Tuscany

Imagine finding yourself in Tuscany, where every moment invites you to slow down and  savor life . Slow travel allows you to embrace the  present moment  in a way that transcends mere sightseeing.

Discovering mindfulness through cuisine : In Tuscany,  mindful eating  is not just a practice; it’s a pleasure that locals live by daily. Picture yourself at a family-run vineyard, sitting at a rustic table and being present with every flavor in your glass of Chianti. Restaurants and local markets urge you to appreciate the regional produce, focusing on the joy of tasting rather than eating simply to satisfy hunger.

Everyday mindfulness : As you wander through medieval towns, mindfulness turns a simple walk into an intimate journey. You learn to notice the details, like the feeling of the cobblestones under your feet. The atmosphere encourages you to connect deeper with each experience, whether a serene afternoon spent in a square or a stroll through vineyards.

Personal transformation : It’s in the quiet contemplation of a sunset over the rolling hills where many travelers find reflections turn into revelations. This change in travel style from checklist tourism to a more meaningful connection defines  slow travel in Tuscany .

Digital Detox: Unplugged Serenity in the Canadian Wilderness

You might yearn to break from the digital world in today’s fast-paced world. The Canadian wilderness provides a haven for those seeking  mindfulness  and  inner peace . Imagine days when your phone doesn’t dictate your schedule, and you can immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of nature.

The  Muskwa-Kechika Wilderness  of British Columbia is an exemplary destination where the vastness allows for a profound digital detox. By connecting with nature in this remote expanse, you can rediscover the joys of simply being. You’ll venture into a world where your primary connection is between you and the earth, not a Wi-Fi signal.

Adapting to life without constant notifications , you’ll likely notice a shift in your daily rhythm, aligning more with natural cycles. This shift isn’t just about rest; it’s a form of  self-reconnection , acknowledging the need for spaces to genuinely pause and rejuvenate.

You are taking a vital step towards sustaining  mental wellness  by setting time aside for these retreats. The Canadian wilderness, untouched and free from digital chains, is one of the best places in the world to find this tranquillity .

Solo Travel: Self-Discovery in New Zealand

Embarking on  a solo journey to New Zealand  can be a transformative experience, fostering  self-discovery  and  mindfulness . Traveling alone allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes at your own pace, encouraging personal reflection and growth.

New Zealand’s diverse geography serves as the perfect backdrop for meditative activities. Whether it’s a peaceful hike through the emerald hills of the Coromandel Peninsula or a tranquil morning watching the sunrise over the Southern Alps, you can engage with your surroundings on a deeper level.

The country’s rich Maori culture also adds a unique dimension to  solo travel experiences , providing opportunities to learn and connect spiritually with the land .

Mindful Eating: Culinary Mindfulness in Italy

Italy is synonymous with exquisite cuisine, making it a perfect time to practice  mindful eating  on vacation. This approach transforms meals into a sensory journey, heightening the appreciation for every bite.  Food is an art in Italy  and eating immerses yourself in the cultural tapestry of Italian dining.

Here are some tips to enhance culinary mindfulness:

• Savor each moment : Take the time to savor the flavors and textures of Italian dishes. Whether it’s the robust tang of a traditional tomato sauce or the creamy richness of a well-crafted tiramisu, let your taste buds fully engage with every ingredient.
• Local ingredients : Seek out restaurants that prioritize locally sourced ingredients. Eating locally not only supports sustainable practices but also ensures that you’re enjoying fresh and authentic flavors.
• Meal pacing : Italians famously pace their meals, encouraging a leisurely dining experience. Follow suit by taking gradual bites and pauses. This gives your body ample time to register fullness, contributing to better digestion and satisfaction.
• Cultural connection : Engage with the story behind each dish. Understanding the regional history and the chef’s inspiration can create a deeper connection to the meal, reinforcing the principles of wellness through cultural appreciation.

Practicing mindful eating in Italy isn’t just about wellness; it’s a chance to connect profoundly with one of the world’s most revered culinary landscapes. As you absorb the atmosphere of trattorias or fine dining establishments, remember that each meal is an opportunity to cultivate mindfulness and celebrate Italy’s rich gastronomical heritage.

Eco-Friendly Travel: Sustainable Exploration in Costa Rica

Costa Rica stands at the forefront of  eco-friendly travel , setting a global example of how tourism can be fused with environmental stewardship. By choosing Costa Rica for your next journey, you’re embracing  mindful travel  practices, supporting a nation’s dedication to conserving its natural riches.

Persistent efforts in nature conservation have led to a robust network of national parks and protected areas. Local communities are involved in the decision-making, ensuring  sustainable tourism practices .

As you traverse the diverse landscapes, from rainforests to beaches, consider how each activity impacts the environment. Opt for eco-lodges that prioritize green practices or join tours committed to leaving a minimal carbon footprint . Select  public transportation  or shared shuttle services, reduce your travel emissions, and engage in activities like guided nature walks, which reinforce conservation efforts and educate about local ecosystems.

By intentionally integrating these aspects into your itinerary, your visit to Costa Rica will support the environment and provide a rich, authentic experience. 

Remember, sustainable travel is a continuous journey – one where your conscious choices contribute to a larger purpose of preserving the world’s beauty for future generations.

Passing Thru Travel

The Ultimate Escape – Finding Tranquility and Mindfulness at Top Meditation Retreats

Posted: April 6, 2024 | Last updated: April 6, 2024

In the quest for inner peace and mindfulness, meditation retreats stand as sanctuaries of serenity and self-discovery. These retreats offer a respite from the relentless pace of modern life, inviting individuals to explore the depths of their consciousness and cultivate a state of tranquility.We unveil destinations that facilitate profound personal transformations from secluded ashrams to luxurious wellness resorts.

What Is Meditation?

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Meditation is a practice where an individual uses a technique – such as mindfulness or focusing the mind on a particular object, thought, or activity – to train attention and awareness and achieve a mentally clear, emotionally calm, and stable state. It is foundational for enhancing personal well-being, reducing stress, and fostering an in-depth understanding of the mind and emotions.

The Benefits of Meditation

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Antonio Guillem

Meditation offers numerous benefits, including improved stress management, enhanced concentration, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and better emotional health. It can also increase self-awareness, greater peace and well-being, improved sleep patterns, and a stronger immune system. Additionally, regular meditation practice has been linked to beneficial changes in the brain related to memory, empathy, and self-regulation.

1. Vipassana Meditation Center, Dhamma Giri, India

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Nestled in the tranquil settings of Igatpuri, Maharashtra, the Vipassana Meditation Center, Dhamma Giri, is one of the foremost destinations for those seeking to learn the ancient technique of Vipassana. This center, recognized globally for its rigorous 10-day meditation courses, emphasizes self-observation and mindfulness. Participants engage in silent meditation, abstaining from all forms of communication to foster deep introspection and mental purification. The course’s structured nature, focusing on the breath and bodily sensations, guides attendees through self-discovery and liberation from mental impurities.

2. Spirit Rock Meditation Center, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sundry Photography

Located in the rolling hills of Marin County, California, Spirit Rock Meditation Center is a beacon for mindfulness training in the Insight Meditation tradition. This center offers a range of programs, from day-long workshops to silent meditation retreats lasting up to two months. Its teachings focus on the practical application of mindfulness and loving-kindness in daily life, aiming to cultivate peace, compassion, and wisdom. The serene natural surroundings and minimalist accommodations encourage a deep connection with nature and oneself, making it an ideal setting for both beginners and experienced practitioners.

3. Plum Village, France

Image Credit: Shutterstock / fizkes

Founded by Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, Plum Village in the Dordogne region of southern France is a vibrant community practicing mindfulness daily. This retreat offers a unique blend of meditation practices, including sitting meditation, walking meditation, and mindful eating, in a supportive community setting. Attendees are encouraged to participate in communal activities, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. The teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh, emphasizing peace and compassion, resonate throughout the village, offering profound insights into the nature of suffering and the path to liberation.

4. The Buddhist Retreat Centre, South Africa

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Hannes Thirion

Perched atop the rolling hills of Ixopo, the Buddhist Retreat Centre offers panoramic views of the Umkomaas River valley and the distant peaks of the Drakensberg. This retreat center is known for its Zen-inspired design, extensive library, and walking trails that meander through indigenous forests. The center conducts weekend and week-long silent meditation retreats, focusing on the principles of Buddhism and the practice of mindfulness. The retreat’s integration of meditation with nature walks, bird watching, and gardening encourages a holistic approach to mindfulness that nurtures both the mind and body.

5. Gaia House, UK

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kong niti

In the serene Devon countryside, Gaia House is a haven of mindfulness and meditation in the Theravada Buddhism tradition. This non-sectarian retreat center offers silent meditation retreats ranging from weekend to three-month durations, emphasizing insight meditation (Vipassana) and loving-kindness meditation (Metta). The retreat’s schedule includes guided meditations, teachings, and individual meetings with experienced teachers, all within a supportive and secluded environment. Gaia House’s commitment to silence, simplicity, and deepening mindfulness and compassion makes it a profound setting for personal transformation.

6. Shambhala Mountain Center, USA

Nestled in the Colorado Rockies, the Shambhala Mountain Center is a sprawling 600-acre estate that offers a blend of Tibetan Buddhist practices and Shambhala teachings, which focus on the fundamental goodness of humanity and society. The center is renowned for its Great Stupa of Dharmakaya, a monument dedicated to peace, enlightenment, and liberation. Attendees can participate in various programs, including meditation retreats, mindfulness training, and yoga, all designed to foster personal growth, well-being, and spiritual development. The natural beauty of the Rockies provides a majestic backdrop for contemplation and practice, making it an ideal setting for those seeking to deepen their meditation practice in solitude or in community.

7. Tassajara Zen Mountain Center, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Andrei Mayatnik

Located in the secluded Ventana Wilderness of California, Tassajara Zen Mountain Center is the oldest S?t? Zen monastery in the United States. This retreat offers a unique opportunity to experience monastic Zen life, focusing on zazen (sitting meditation), work practice, and the daily rituals of Zen Buddhism. The center is particularly famous for its hot springs, which provide a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. The rigorous schedule and the simplicity of monastic life encourage deep introspection and a profound connection with the present moment.

8. The Yoga Barn, Bali, Indonesia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Song_about_summer

In the heart of Ubud, Bali’s cultural and spiritual center, The Yoga Barn offers an oasis of calm and a comprehensive wellness experience. While not exclusively a meditation retreat, its extensive program includes meditation, yoga, healing therapies, and workshops that promote mindfulness and spiritual well-being. Set in a lush, tropical landscape, The Yoga Barn is designed to nurture holistic health, offering a supportive community environment where individuals can explore various paths to inner peace and mindfulness. Its approachable and diverse offerings make it suitable for practitioners of all levels seeking to deepen their meditation practice in a serene, inspiring setting.

9. Wat Suan Mokkh, Thailand

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Caterina Trimarchi

Wat Suan Mokkh, located in the province of Surat Thani in southern Thailand, is a Buddhist monastery founded by the renowned monk Ajahn Buddhadasa. The monastery offers a 10-day silent meditation retreat at the beginning of each month, focusing on mindfulness with breathing, Dhamma talks, and yoga. The retreat emphasizes simplicity, with participants adhering to a monastic schedule and living in basic accommodations. This setting encourages letting go of material comforts and distractions, fostering a deeper exploration of the mind and the teachings of the Buddha.

10. Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / StockFamily

Situated in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts, the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health is a leader in yoga and mindfulness-based education. The center offers many programs, including meditation retreats, yoga teacher training, and wellness workshops. Kripalu’s approach to meditation is accessible and integrates seamlessly with its yoga practices, emphasizing the connection between mind, body, and spirit. The serene setting, overlooking Lake Mahkeenac, provides a peaceful backdrop for personal exploration and transformation. Kripalu’s inclusive, compassionate philosophy makes it a welcoming place for individuals at all stages of their meditation journey.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / bogubogu

Embarking on a meditation retreat is a step towards cultivating mindfulness, tranquility, and a deeper understanding of oneself. Each of these destinations offers a unique setting and approach to meditation, inviting you to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and connect with your inner self. As you consider your journey, the path to mindfulness is personal and ever-evolving. Choose a retreat that resonates with your spirit, and open yourself to the transformative experiences that await.

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The 15 Best Meditation Retreats in the U.S.

What are the best meditation retreats in the U.S.? If you search online for beautiful, peaceful and spiritually productive wellness retreats, the breadth of options and opinions may be confusing. Many of the lists you find are created by travel agencies, so we have taken a fresh look at the best meditation retreats in the U.S. These offer peace, beauty, personal growth, relaxation, healing and rejuvenation, as well as opportunities for individuals, couples and groups. 

The benefits of meditation are well-known and include increased mindfulness, relief from anxiety, better sleep and more. Some research shows evidence of better brain health and physical benefits , too, such as relief from chronic conditions such as pain and high blood pressure.

Meditation retreats offer something that self-guided meditation, your local yoga class and even the best online and mobile meditation apps cannot—a complete experience free of daily distractions. And self-care through group meditation offers something more. Participants foster social connections, enhancing their individual sense of belonging. Just as importantly, communal meditation creates an environment where individuals can battle burnout and embrace growth while amplifying healing journeys for one another.

What is the best place for meditation in the U.S.?

With healing in mind, our list of best meditation retreats for 2023 emphasizes:

• Opportunities for group meditation, yoga and other healthful activities
• Natural, calming and aesthetically pleasing surroundings
• Ease of contact, scheduling and booking
• Delicious, healthful food offerings and quality accommodations
• Instructor, coach and owner credentials and experience
• Variety of ongoing meditation retreat options
• Recommendations and overall client happiness

At these meditation retreats in the U.S., you’ll not only meet new people and gain instruction on your path toward greater well-being, but you’ll also see new sights, breathe new air, take new hikes, eat new foods and, in some cases, even be pampered. Take a look through this list of the best meditation retreats to get started on your weekend (or longer) self-care retreat of healthy rejuvenation.

Arizona meditation retreats

Spiritquest.

Sedona, Arizona

Travelers worldwide know Sedona, Arizona, for its beauty, arts, meditation and overall restorative powers. If seeking a meditation retreat in the southwest, you must investigate SpiritQuest . A place for spiritual and emotional healing, SpiritQuest Sedona Retreats offers packages that include bodywork and spirit-cleansing meditation. Wellness, yoga, shamanic, couples treatments and other options are available to work through trauma or better understand your next life transition. You can even take a shamanic canyon journey. SpiritQuest also offers accommodations at its breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon sanctuary. However, you may choose to stay with nearby partners in Sedona.

California meditation retreats

Esalen institute.

Big Sur, California

Esalen Institute offers a wide menu of workshop retreats as well as on-campus, serve-and-study opportunities. Every program is designed to help you explore your potential and unlock your creativity . With 24-hour access to hot springs overlooking the Pacific Coast, Esalen provides a luxurious, 100-acre natural setting to truly recharge your batteries.

Their lodge serves as a communal focal point for gatherings, food, fun and cultivating new relationships. You’ll also find a swimming pool, art barn, meditation hut and more on the campus. Stays include three meals and accommodations ranging from affordable sleeping bags and yurts to suites and entire houses. Multi-day workshops offer a range of options for communal renewal, mindfulness and meditation.

Silent Stay Meditation Center

Santa Barbara, California

Does the world sometimes seem too cluttered and noisy? Learn the benefits of silence at this picturesque, 45-acre retreat . Guests enjoy private rooms, three silent meals a day and a program with Bruce Davis, Ph.D. and Ruth Davis, heartfulness trainer. Here, heartfulness meditation embraces silence to help clear your mind, bask in your own existence and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds you. Retreat packages may last a couple of days at modest prices. Retreats of 21 days and longer are also available through the institute’s sabbatical program.

Vedanta Spiritual & Holistic Retreat

California Hot Springs, California

As an international center for holistic learning, Vedanta Spiritual and Holistic Retreat places great emphasis on communal growth and healing. Located on more than 200 acres of beautiful hillsides, the retreat offers quiet hiking trails to reconnect with nature while you practice yoga, meditation, breathwork and more. Weekend, four-day and week-long retreats occur regularly with opportunities to live, learn, love and heal communally.

Examples of themed retreats include improving relationships, building resilience, personal healing, cooking and detox. Gourmet, vegetarian meals are provided. If you are ready to pamper yourself while learning the mindful practice of living in the moment, Vedanta is the place for you. It offers boutique, luxury experiences for its guests with lovely accommodations. It even offers a “Goddess Retreat” plan for a rejuvenating, spa-like experience

Colorado meditation retreats

Crestone retreats.

Crestone, Colorado

If you’ve wanted to experience zen on your own terms, you’ll not find a more comfortable and beautiful meditation experience than at Crestone Retreats . Located at 8,400 feet above sea level, you’ll look over the San Luis Valley while enjoying their lush vegetable and flower gardens. Accommodations include three vegetarian meals a day, plus homegrown foods prepared in the oryoki tradition. Hiking excursions and hot springs are also on the menu. Individual and group bookings are available for this wilderness and silent meditation retreat, with lodging facilities ranging from camping to a private room in the guest house.

Shoshoni Yoga Retreat

Rollinsville, Colorado

If yoga is part of your mindfulness routine—or you want it to be— Shoshoni Yoga Retreat might be just the place for you. Located within 300 forested acres of the Rocky Mountains, Shoshoni offers three temples, yoga rooms, indoor and outdoor spaces for silent meditation and hiking trails plus a hot tub and sauna. Shoshoni offers the opportunity to reset, rejuvenate and recharge while practicing yoga in the ShambhavAnanda tradition.

Yoga retreats occur every Thursday through Saturday with a two-night minimum. These retreats provide an opportunity to work and learn with others while building a daily self-care routine of meditation, yoga and three meals. Shoshoni also offers special, themed retreats for communal growth and learning throughout the year such as women’s retreats, breath training and dance. You can even schedule a course on becoming a yoga instructor yourself.

Sunrise Ranch

Loveland, Colorado

Tucked away in the picturesque foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Sunrise Ranch is a communal center and a holistically managed farm and ranch. Offering healing guidance for people of all faiths, the center embraces the philosophy of honoring the Universal Being. Practices focus on emotional support, personal growth , spiritual intelligence and attunement, a deep mindfulness meditation.

The facilities provide multiple meeting rooms. One of them accommodates up to 240 guests, making it ideal for presentations. Single-day workshops occur regularly, guided by caring and highly qualified spiritual leaders. Sunrise Ranch offers its own retreats throughout the year, guiding groups on their paths of spiritual growth and healing. Affordable accommodations range from single rooms to chalet offerings, and camping opportunities are available.

Florida meditation retreats

Gainesville retreat center.

Gainesville, Florida

If you’re planning a meditation retreat in Florida and prefer deep, subtropical forests to urban coastland, Gainesville Retreat Center might be the place for you. Situated within 140 acres of forested land and offering miles of hiking trails for quiet meditation, the retreat offers opportunities for both individual and group retreats. Their top teachers will kindly guide you through yoga, meditation and more, all in a calming, communal setting of personal fulfillment and growth.

At the current rate of $60 per night for detox and rehabilitation retreats, the center provides opportunities to support and nurture kindred spirits of diverse traditions. They caringly support personal and group benefits through a focus on yoga and mindfulness meditation. Plus, the Gainesville Retreat Center offers detox and rehabilitative retreats as well as discounts for extended stays.

Zen Den Yoga School

Boca Raton, Florida

With excellent teachers and plenty to explore in the surrounding coastal community, Zen Den Yoga School provides a surprisingly relaxed and regenerative experience within Boca Raton. The wellness retreat offerings are amazing with choices of standup paddle boarding excursions (SUP retreats), yin yoga retreats, detox and cleansing retreats as well as speciality retreats.

SUP retreats offer yoga and meditation upon beautiful blue waters. Detox retreats provide a 4-day opportunity to address health and well-being issues through meditation, yoga and dietary knowledge. Yin yoga retreats provide an opportunity to focus both physically and mentally. Speciality retreats provide multi-day opportunities for communal healing and individual growth with themes such as Chinese medicine.

New York meditation retreats

Dharmakaya center for wellbeing.

Pine Bush, New York

Offering ancient wisdom for modern well-being, Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing lies amid the idyllic Shawangunk Mountains of New York. The Buddhist center offers opportunities for meditation, yoga, and workshops aimed at promoting inner healing and peace . The center provides a peaceful environment for communal practice, with opportunities for meditation, nature walks and group activities to foster a sense of community.

Personal retreats are designed to assist guests on a path of refocus and renewal. Programs are flexible to meet your needs. Whether you need a few days of quiet contemplation or intensive learning in Buddhist practice, the Dharmakaya Center has you covered. Affordable accommodations include delicious vegetarian food and various room options offering quiet, elegant simplicity.

Menla Retreat & Dewa Spa

Phoenicia, New York

Located in the Catskill Mountains, Menla Retreat is a Tibetan Buddhist center and wellness retreat that offers meditation retreats for communal healing. They have a variety of programs ranging from silent meditation and yoga to guided healing workshops. They also provide massage and related bodywork as well as Tibetan healing therapies. Participants can also enjoy the tranquil nature surrounding Menla, including hiking trails and spa facilities for additional rejuvenation.

Weekend and week-long retreats offer the full benefits of guided healing power amid a safe, like-minded community. Menla offers yoga retreats as well as themed retreats focused on relationships, mindfulness, healing and much more. Accommodations include both standard and deluxe options. Plus, you will relish meals prepared by Chef Alicia from healthy ingredients, including many harvested from Menla’s own organic garden.

North Carolina meditation retreats

The art of living retreat center.

Boone, North Carolina

The Art of Living offers meditation retreats designed for almost any well-being goal. They provide meditation and silent meditation retreats as well as Shankara Ayurveda Wellness and programs designed specifically toward improving your happiness. And if you simply need some R&R, there’s a retreat package for that, too. While accommodations include comforts such as beds, Wi-Fi, television and everything else you’d expect from a hotel stay, you’ll leave these modern conveniences behind during your meditations in the splendor of North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

Tennessee meditation retreats

Seven springs yoga and holistic retreats.

Maryville, Tennessee

If you’ve never experienced the beauty and serenity of the Smoky Mountains, Seven Springs offers you the opportunity. This meditation getaway provides a quiet retreat opportunity sure to reenergize you, build resilience and even help you connect at a more spiritual level. Seven Springs offers personal retreat packages for one or more people starting at a two nights’ stay. Wellness services include private yoga classes, nature hikes and medicinal herb walks, a forest bath with tea and more. Vegetarian meals are also provided to further the objective of nourishing your entire being, both body and spirit. Beautifully designed and decorated yurts provide your lodging, and camping opportunities are available.

Texas meditation retreats

Retreat in the pines.

Mineola, Texas

Offered for women by women, Retreat in the Pines is the place for you to find healing and support in a nurturing environment without distraction or judgment. Chef-prepared meals are on the menu here, but so are guided meditations and gentle yoga. These self-care retreats make you feel comfortable while also guiding you toward better self-care and well-being. Choose from an ongoing menu of retreat options that include “self-love and acceptance,” “mindfulness,” “nurture” and a five-day beach retreat. Nature walks, essential oils, yoga and off-site activities are all part of the healing process depending upon your goals and the retreat you choose. And if you know someone who could benefit from such a retreat, gift cards are available, too.

Vermont meditation retreats

Brattleboro, Vermont

Known for Ayurveda—Indian practices of deep nourishment and well-being— Setu lies in the gorgeous New England foothills near the center of Vermont. You can find yoga classes, medicinal training, spa treatments and more. But you’ll really love the meditation retreats. These offerings are ongoing and include instructors who will guide you through sound healing, health and nourishment and even custom experiences to revive and rejuvenate. Mountain views, garden walks, Indian cuisine and even a hot tub and sauna help make your weekend meditation retreat complete with this family-owned wellness center.

This article was originally published September 2022 and has been updated. Photo by oleksboiko/Shutterstock

Bryan Lindenberger

Bryan enjoys the digital space where arts and technology meet. As a writer, he has worked in education, health and wellbeing, and manufacturing. He also assists smaller businesses in web development including accessibility and content development. In his free time, he hikes trails in central Florida.

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Best Tourist Destinations for Meditation

Welcome to the fascinating world of meditation! If you are looking for the perfect place to practice inner peace and mindfulness, we invite you to explore the best tourist destinations that inspire and attract meditators from around the world.

India, Ganges:

By immersing yourself in the sacred waters of the Ganges River, you will enter a spiritual atmosphere ideal for meditation. Along the Ganges, you'll find numerous ashrams and temples where you can indulge in meditative practices.

Tibet, Himalayas:

Imagine meditating amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains. This place radiates transcendental energy, allowing you to focus and immerse yourself in deep meditation states.

Thailand, Koh Phangan:

This tropical paradise on Koh Phangan Island attracts meditation practitioners with its retreats and yoga centers. Practice meditation on pristine beaches and enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature.

Nepal, Kathmandu:

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is renowned for its monasteries and temples. Visit Boudhanath, where you can immerse yourself in meditation around an impressive stupa surrounded by mantras and the aroma of incense.

Costa Rica, Montezuma:

Surrounded by picturesque nature and the ocean, Montezuma is a beautiful place for meditation. Find secluded beaches or forested areas to practice mindfulness and fully immerse yourself in the surroundings.

Japan, Kyoto:

Kyoto, with its multitude of temples and gardens, offers the perfect setting for meditation. Visit the famous Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) or Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) temples, where you can soak in harmony and practice meditation.

Greece, Santorini:

Imagine yourself sitting on white cliffs, overlooking the endless Aegean Sea. Santorini possesses a magical energy and a unique atmosphere conducive to meditation and relaxation.

China, Great Wall:

The Great Wall of China is a majestic historical landmark that stretches for hundreds of kilometers. You can find secluded spots on the wall where you can practice meditation and enjoy impressive views.

Bali, Indonesia:

Bali is renowned for its tranquility and spiritual energy. There are many retreats and meditation spots where you can connect with nature and find inner harmony.

Explore these stunning tourist destinations and let them inspire you on an inner journey towards harmony. In each of them, you will find the perfect space for meditation practice and immersing yourself in your inner self.

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The Best Yoga Travel Destinations in the World

With yoga’s rise in popularity more of us are looking for destinations where we can relax and immerse ourselves in our yoga practice while also exploring the culture, nature and spirituality of different countries.

Yoga travelers are no longer limited to ashrams in India to learn more about yoga, wellness and spirituality. From nature retreats in Costa Rica, to beach resorts in Thailand, nowadays there are many incredible yoga travel destinations all over the world with a huge variety of options, each offering something unique, special and a potentially life changing experience.

In this blog, we will explore the benefits of yoga travel and take a journey through the best yoga destinations in the world that boast a combination of stunning nature and landscapes, rich cultural and spiritual experiences, and top-notch yoga facilities offering a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern luxuries.

What is Yoga Travel?

Like travel, yoga is a journey to self-discovery, wellness and inner peace so why not combine the two together?!

Yoga travel is an exciting and unique concept that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Yoga travel isn’t just a vacation, it is a unique blend of travel and wellness that offers an opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Yoga travelers love to explore new places and learn from different cultures around the world where yoga is a lifestyle and not just an exercise.

Yoga travelers are people who seek to combine their love for travel and yoga – explorers at heart with a passion for wellness, self-discovery, and spiritual growth. Yoga travel is a great way to experience different types of yoga and learn new techniques and philosophies to elevate your practice to the next level. It can also help you reconnect to nature, have a spiritual experience and discover yourself and the world in new ways.

Yoga travel is not just about performing impressive asanas (yoga poses) in exotic locations for Instagram; it’s about seeking more meaningful and transformative experiences from your vacations and moving away from superficial tourism to engage more deeply with local cultures, traditions and spirituality. A yoga vacation also provides a much-needed respite from daily stresses which allows you to focus taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being.

Yoga destinations usually offer tranquil settings perfect for yoga practice and meditation, self-care, introspection and rejuvenation. This could include serene beaches, lush mountain landscapes, and ancient spiritual sites. These locations are ideal for yoga travel and provide the perfect space for deepening your yoga practice while broadening your perspectives and experiencing the beauty and diversity of different cultures around the world.

Many yoga hotspots are also situated in spiritual places or on energetic vortexes which is said to be the source of their special healing energy. These destinations often offer specialized yoga retreats led by experienced instructors and also emphasize holistic wellness.

In addition to yoga classes, many retreat centres provide nutritious meals, meditation sessions and other wellness therapies and activities like spa treatments, cooking classes or adventure sports that complement the yoga practice and enhance the overall travel experience. Moreover, many yoga destinations prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices and conscious living.

So if you’re a yoga enthusiast looking for a vacation that offers more than just sightseeing, consider embarking on a yoga travel adventure. Not only will you get to indulge your wanderlust, but you’ll also have the opportunity to deepen your yoga practice, enhance your well-being and embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

And you don’t need to be rich, slim, flexible or an expert yogi to experience the transformative benefits of yoga travel. Some of the best yoga travel destinations are surprisingly affordable and all offer a wealth of options whatever your experience level whether you are a beginner or an experienced yogi.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Yoga Destination

Choosing the perfect yoga travel destination can be overwhelming because there are so many different options available. So we have curated a list of the best yoga destinations in the world to help you find the ideal yoga vacation or retreat that suits your needs and preferences.

Before we dive into the list of the best yoga travel destinations, it’s important to consider a few factors that will help you make an informed decision:

Type of Yoga – The first factor is to consider the type of yoga you practice or want to learn, as different destinations specialize in various styles of yoga from traditional Hatha yoga in India to more modern and dynamic styles like Vinyasa Flow or Power yoga practised in Europe or America. Make sure to research the offerings at each location to ensure they match your interests and goals.

Culture – Think about the cultural experience you desire during your yoga vacation. Each destination offers unique opportunities to immerse yourself in the local customs, traditions, and spiritual practices which can elevate your yoga practice and overall experience.

Climate and Environment – Next, consider the climate and environment you prefer. Some people love practicing yoga in warm tropical settings on a beach or island, while others prefer cooler temperatures or mountainous regions. There’s even urban yoga retreats where you can explore exciting cities while leveling up your yoga practice.

Budget – Your budget is another important factor to consider. Yoga retreats can vary greatly in cost, so it’s essential to find one that fits your financial constraints. Luxurious, all-inclusive retreats are often the most relaxing experience, but surprisingly affordable yoga retreats can be found in developing countries where the cost of living is lower. Also consider yoga destinations within your own country to avoid paying for flights.

The Best Yoga Travel Destinations Around the World

Now that you know a bit more about why yoga travel is so amazing and what to consider when choosing your destination let’s dive into the ultimate list of the best yoga travel destinations around the world from North America all the way over to Australia.

Yoga Destinations in North America

Home to stunning scenery and diverse landscapes, the United States offers an equally diverse range of yoga destinations, catering to the needs of every yogi.

The USA has a richer yoga history than you might realize and is home to some of the best yoga centres in the world. Many yogis and gurus from India migrated to the US and started ashrams and yoga centers which helped to spread the practice worldwide. 

California, with its sunny weather and laid-back vibes, is home to numerous yoga retreats and studios. Ojai and Big Sur are popular choices for their scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Sedona, Arizona, is another fantastic option, known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy.

The beaches of Florida and the islands of Hawaii are also top US yoga destinations while those who prefer a colder climate will love Colorado and the Rocky Mountains.

See our handpicked recommendations for the best yoga retreats in the USA and the top yoga teacher training programs in the USA.

Mexico is a vibrant and colorful country that boasts some of the best yoga vacation destinations in North America with many stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins , colorful colonial cities and a fantastic cuisine to explore.

Tulum, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, is a popular choice for its pristine beaches and ancient Mayan ruins. Puerto Vallarta and nearby Sayulita, a charming surf town on the Pacific coast, is another excellent option, with a thriving yoga community and numerous retreats to choose from. Oaxaca is also one of the safest states in Mexico with plenty of options for yoga travelers and culture lovers.

Many yoga retreats in Mexico also offer traditional temazcal (sweat lodge) and cacao ceremonies, surfing lessons and Spanish lessons in addition to daily yoga sessions and meditation classes.

See our handpicked recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Mexico

Canada is a great choice for yogis looking for a peaceful and beautiful yoga travel destination. British Columbia has some of the best yoga retreats in the world, with its majestic mountains, lush forests and refreshing lakes providing the perfect backdrop for meditation and yoga practice.

Vancouver Island is another popular option, with its peaceful beaches and stunning views while The Rocky Mountains offer breath-taking scenery and numerous relaxing retreats that are sure to leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and reconnected to nature.

Yoga Destinations in Central and South America

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and yogis alike. With its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder that this Central American country has become a popular yoga travel destination.

Costa Rica is not only one of the world’s best yoga destinations, but also one of the most eco friendly, bio diverse, happiest and healthiest countries on the planet and home to incredible unspoilt natural beauty. If you want to be immersed in nature and experience the ‘ Pura Vida ’ (meaning pure or simple life) philosophy you’ll love the yoga retreats in Costa Rica. 

The best yoga destinations in Costa Rica include the laid back beach towns of Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa and Montezuma in the Guanacaste Province and on the Nicoya Peninsula. These are a favorite among yogis for its beautiful beaches, world-class yoga studios, and healthy living culture.

In addition to daily yoga classes, many Costa Rica yoga retreats emphasize a laid back and healthy living culture, offer stunning outdoor swimming pools, surf lessons and a whole host of other exciting activities like zip lining through the rainforest, horseback riding, volcano trekking, diving, snorkeling and kayaking. 

As well as being one of the very best places for yoga retreats abroad, If you’re looking to really deepen your practice or change your career, Costa Rica is also one of the best places in the world to do yoga teacher training .

See our handpicked recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Costa Rica and our favorite yoga teacher training retreats in Costa Rica.

Nicaragua is another popular yoga destination in Central America. From the colonial city of Granada to the stunning beaches of San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua offers a unique cultural experience with a variety of activities to enjoy.

Yoga retreats in Nicaragua are some of the most affordable in the region and offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure and exploring the local culture and wildlife. It’s also a top surf destination and many yoga retreats also offer surfing lessons.

Guatemala is an increasingly popular yoga destination in Central America. With its stunning volcanic lakes and majestic Mayan ruins, it’s a great place to practice yoga and explore tradtional healing therapies. The colonial city of Antigua with its cobbled streets, colorful markets and nearby hot springs is a beautiful place to explore.

Lake Atitlan is a popular option for yoga travelers with its breathtaking views and numerous yoga retreats to choose from. Guatemala also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the Mayan ruins, making it the perfect place for a holistic yoga vacation.

Peru offers an adventurous and spiritual yoga experience with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and spiritual energy. Yoga travelers in Peru can learn about the ancient Incan culture and reconnect with the healing energy of Pachamama.

From the Andes to the Amazon, Peru has plenty of stunning scenery and yoga retreat centers and offers a life changing adventure for the yoga traveler. The Sacred Valley, nestled in the Andes Mountains, is an ideal location for yoga retreats, with its breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere. Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, offers a vibrant culture and access to iconic sites like Machu Picchu while Lake Titicaca is another popular choice.

For those who want to go deeper there are also spiritual retreats and ayahuasca ceremonies in Peru where you can partake in ancient plant medicine ritual with shamans.

See our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Peru.

Yoga Destinations in Europe

Europe is packed with charming historic towns, incredible food, stunning landscapes and world class yoga retreat centres.

While you can find yoga retreats in Europe in almost every country and many fantastic options for yoga teacher training in Europe there are some countries that stand out from the rest and shouldn’t be missed off any yoga travelers bucket list.

Here are the very best destinations for a yoga holiday in Europe:

Spain boasts the largest number of yoga retreats in Europe, with many stunning yoga destinations to explore. Whether you want to explore the beaches and delicious cuisine or the charming white villages of Andalusia or the artsy and hip culture of Barcelona, Spain is the ideal location for a yoga holiday in Europee.

The party island of Ibiza is famous for its wild nightlife, but it also has a hippie, spiritual side and is home to many spectacular yoga retreats. The Canary Islands offer fun yoga and surf holidays, basking in year-round sunshine and tropical temperatures. Known as ‘the Hawaii of Europe,’ the Canaries are the best yoga travel destination for winter sun in Europe.

See our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Spain

If you’re looking to combine yoga and surfing into one incredible trip, Portugal offers some of the best options in Europe. Home to historic towns, picturesque beaches and an increasing number of eco-communities, there are so many yoga retreats popping up all over Portugal where you can find like-minded people and make new friends.

Portugal’s colorful and charismatic capital Lisbon is one of Europe’s most beautiful and unique cities, and the enchanting castles, palaces, and national parks of Sintra make a lovely day trip from the capital.

The best destinations for yoga and surfing in Portugal include Peniche, Ericeira , and Cascais, all just a short train ride from Lisbon. The southern region of the Algarve is also a favorite among yogis and surfers for its stunning beaches, picturesque cliffs, and numerous yoga retreats.

See our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Portugal and Portuguese surf and yoga holidays .

With its spectacular islands, crystal-clear waters, laidback lifestyle and ancient history, Greece has so much to offer for yoga travelers.

If you’re looking for beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, the islands of Santorini, Crete and Corfu are popular choices for a yoga vacation. There, you’ll find world-class yoga centers, stunning scenery and delicious, healthy food. If you’re seeking tranquility and seclusion, you can also find retreats on secluded islands are easily found with plenty of space to get away from it all.

No matter where you go in Greece, you’ll have access to impressive ancient monuments, myths and legends. Make time to visit Athens, the capital, for a dose of history and culture.

See our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Greece.

The UK is also a great yoga destination for weekend retreats and for yoga travelers looking to combine seeing the historic sites with a relaxing countryside retreat. Whether it’s the rolling hills of the British countryside, the iconic sights of London, the stunning coastline of Cornwall, or the serene Lake District, there are plenty of options for a yoga holiday in the UK.

There are plenty of rural retreats in England and Wales where you can reconnect with nature and enjoy beautiful scenery and quaint villages. Scotland is also an ideal destination for a yoga holiday – take in breathtaking views from Edinburgh Castle or explore some of the country’s many lochs and glens.

The UK is also home to many sacred sites such as Stonehenge, Avebury and Glastonbury Tor which make great day trips that offer a unique opportunity to connect with ancient energy points.

See our recommendations for the best weekend yoga retreats in the UK.

Yoga Destinations in Asia

The stunning island of Bali in Indonesia is a haven for yoga enthusiasts and spiritual seekers and one of the best yoga travel destinations. Aside from practicing yoga with views of the luscious rice terraces and relaxing in the luxurious spas, yoga travelers can explore Bali’s ancient Hindu temples, beaches, rainforests and waterfalls, hike Mount Agung and dive or surf in the warm tropical waters. 

Bali is also known as ‘ the Island of the Gods ‘ and is a deeply spiritual Hindu island with a rich cultural heritage. The popularity of the movie ‘ Eat Pray Love’ placed Bali firmly as one of the world’s top yoga hotspots – but Bali also has a long, rich history of healing and spiritual practice. If you want to combine yoga and surfing, there’s also some amazing yoga and surf retreats in Bali .

The best yoga destinations in Bali include Ubud, Canggu and Ulu Watu, where yoga travelers will find a plethora of luxurious and affordable yoga retreats, spas and raw vegan cafes. The friendly yoga community also makes Bali perfect for solo travelers. Bali is also one of the best places to do yoga teacher training abroad with many incredible courses to choose from. 

For more information see our Guide to Yoga in Bali , our essential Bali Travel Guide , recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Bali and our favorite yoga teacher training courses in Bali

If you want to deepen your yoga practice both on and off the mat and experience a transformative journey, India is one of the best yoga travel destinations. As the birthplace of yoga, India offers an unparalleled experience that combines wellness, culture, spirituality, and incredible experiences.

The holy city of Rishikesh , located on the banks of the Ganges river, is known as ‘the Yoga Capital of the World.’ Here, you’ll have the chance to practice yoga with experienced teachers and stay in traditional ashrams. If you want to deepen your practice or become a yoga instructor you’ll also find some of the most affordable and authentic yoga teacher training programs in the world in Rishikesh.

If you prefer tropical beaches, head down to Goa or Kerala where you can experience tropical beaches and authentic Ayurvedic spa treatments combined with yoga sessions. If you want to feel the energy of the Himalayan mountains and learn about Tibetan culture, head to Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama. If you love Ashtanga then visit Mysore, the birthplace of Ashtanga yoga.

To experience more of India’s deeply spiritual heritage, yoga travellers should visit the Taj Mahal, the Golden Temple, and take a boat ride on the Ganges River in holy Varanasi. Whatever you are looking for India is one of the best and most transformative yoga travel destinations in the world.

See our full Guide to Yoga in India and our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in India and the best yoga teacher training programs in India.

Thailand’s warm climate, stunning beaches, and ancient temples make ‘The Land of Smiles’ an ideal destination for anyone seeking a yoga vacation on a tropical island paradise.

Koh Phangan , an island in the Gulf of Thailand, is a favorite among yogis for its laid-back atmosphere, world-class yoga centers, and picturesque beaches. Koh Samui and Phuket , both located in southern Thailand, are other popular options for yoga retreats.

But Thailand is much more than just a beautiful backdrop for yoga practice. The vibrant city of Bangkok offers exciting nightlife, street food, and traditional landmarks to explore. The culturally rich city of Chiang Mai and its surrounding jungle provide opportunities to immerse yourself in Buddhist culture and visit ancient temples.

If you’re looking for more than just a yoga retreat, Thailand has something for everyone. Experience traditional Thai massage and spa treatments, island hop, explore steamy jungles and elephant sanctuaries, or participate in healing and tantra workshops.

Check out our guide to yoga in Thailand , our recommendations for the best yoga retreats in Thailand and top yoga teacher training programs in Thailand.

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is another top yoga travel destination. With friendly people, diverse landscapes, a rich culture and spiritual heritage, this beautiful island nation offers a more relaxing yoga experience than neighbouring India.

From the ancient Buddhist stupas to the scenic railway journey through tea plantations and national parks filled with hundreds of elephants Sri Lanka packs so much into a small island. Sri Lanka’s tropical southern coast is dotted with beautiful beaches and makes a fantastic choice for yoga retreats and vacations. Many Sri Lanka yoga retreats also include surf lessons and excursions around the island, allowing you to explore historical sights, cultural gems, and stunning natural landscapes.

Whether you head to the beaches near the historic town of Galle, the surfing paradise of Arugam Bay on the east coast or the cultural capital of Kandy and the picturesque hill country, Sri Lanka is sure to captivate you with its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and exquisite yoga experiences.

See our recommendations for the top 10 yoga retreats in Sri Lanka – from Ayurvedic retreats in the hills to yoga and surf holidays by the beach.

Yoga Destinations in Africa

Morocco is a fascinating destination for yoga travelers looking to combine their practice with cultural exploration. The country’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and diverse culture make it a perfect choice for an exciting yoga holiday.

The city of Marrakech is home to beautiful riads offering yoga classes and and retreats while the Atlas Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop for yoga and hiking vacations. Another great option is Essaouira and Taghazout, coastal towns on the Atlantic Ocean known for its beautiful beaches, surf and traditional architecture. Further south, the Sahara Desert offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature while deepening your practice.

Explore our recommended yoga retreats in Morocco for more inspiration.

South Africa

South Africa is a great destination for those looking to combine their yoga practice with an adventurous outdoor experience. Here you can find yoga centers offering classes in various styles of yoga, as well as safaris and other outdoor activities.

The Kruger National Park is a great option for yogis looking for an immersive wildlife experience. In addition, the coastal towns of Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay offer stunning views of the ocean and plenty of opportunities for beachside yoga practice.

The Garden Route, a scenic stretch of coastline between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, is also worth exploring, with its breathtaking views and numerous yoga centers.

Yoga Destinations in Australia and Oceania

Australia is a great destination for a yoga holiday, with its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and diverse landscapes. Queensland is a popular choice for yogis looking to relax and enjoy the sunshine with numerous yoga centers offering classes in various styles of yoga. in Queensland you will find beautiful beaches, the world’s oldest rainforest and the opportunity to explore The Great Barrier Reef.

Byron Bay, in New South Wales, is another excellent option, with its laid-back atmosphere and world-class yoga studios. While in Australia don’t miss the chance to visit Sydney, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and Uluru (Ayers Rock) one of the most spiritual places where you can learn about Aboriginal culture.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and friendly locals are sure to inspire your yoga practice. The North Island is a popular choice for yoga retreats and holidays, with its beautiful beaches and lush forests and cosmopolitan city of Auckland. The Coromandel Peninsula, in particular, is renowned for its picturesque scenery and numerous yoga centers.

The South Island also offers a great selection of yoga vacations, with its rugged coastlines, stunning mountains and aquamarine glacial lakes. From the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook to the adventure sports hub of Queenstown New Zealand offers spectacular hiking and every other kind of outdoor activity possible. Don’t forget to leave to time to learn about the fascinating Maori culture too.

Tips for Planning Your Yoga Vacation

Now that you have an idea of the best yoga destinations in the world, here are some tips to help you plan your perfect yoga vacation:

Research the destination and retreats thoroughly to ensure they match your interests, budget, and preferences. Check what level and style of yoga is taught, the yoga teachers, the food served, accommodation and facilities. Don’t forget to confirm exactly what’s included so there’s no surprises. All inclusive yoga vacations can be a better experience than budget retreats that may require additional payments. Most importantly check the real reviews from previous guests on www.bookyogaretreats.com  

Consider the time of year and climate, as this can greatly impact your yoga experience. Traveling outside of the high season can offer the advantage of lower prices and less crowds, but check that the retreat centers are open in the off season as some may close due to monsoons.

Look for retreats that offer additional activities and experiences , such as cultural excursions, outdoor adventures, or wellness treatments, to make the most of your vacation. Whether you want to detox or try surfing, go hiking or horseback riding, enjoy cooking classes or spa treatments, the options are endless so you should be able to find the perfect retreat.

Make sure to book your flights and accommodations well in advance to get the best deals and availability. We always use Skyscanner to compare flights and find the best dates and deals and Booking.com if you need a hotel. Ask the retreat organiser if they offer an airport transfer.

Check if you need a visa and get travel insurance. If you’re going on a yoga retreat abroad you should check if you need a tourist visa or an ETA (electronic travel authority). Most of these yoga destinations (apart from India) don’t but some may do, depending on your nationality. Wherever you go, make sure you have travel insurance that covers all of the activities you plan to do on your yoga trip.

Pack your bags. Check if yoga mats are provided or if you’ll need to bring your own and if you’re unsure what to pack for your yoga holiday check out our yoga retreat packing list and our guide to the best travel yoga mats .

Keep an open mind and embrace the unique experiences that each destination offers.

Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Yoga Destination

The world is full of incredible yoga destinations, each with its unique offerings, landscapes, and cultures. With so many amazing options, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect yoga retreat.

By carefully considering your intention, requirements and budget, and using the tips provided in our blog, you will be well on your way to finding the ideal yoga destination that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, inspired, and more connected to yourself and the world around you.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the amount of retreats available, take a look at our guide to choosing a good yoga retreat and if it’s your first time then check out our tips for what to expect from your first yoga retreat .

Check out our blogs for advice and handpicked recommendations for amazing retreats in the best yoga destinations across the world and let us know where you pick for your yoga vacation!

Happy travels, and namaste!

• Benefits of Going on a Yoga Retreat
• 11 Different Types of Retreat to try
• Sanskrit Yoga Words to know before your retreat
• 5 Ways to keep up with your Yoga Practice while Traveling
• Why Everyone should go on a Solo Retreat
• The Best Surf and Yoga Retreats in the World

* This post may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase through links on our site we may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products that we love and genuinely use ourselves. All prices stated are correct on the date of publishing, but can be subject to change.

© loveyogalovetravel.com 2022-2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to loveyogalovetravel.com with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

Anna is a travel writer and yoga teacher. She travelled the world and then fell in love with Goa, India where she has lived for over 10 years.

Her blog www.global-gallivanting.com is a 'go to' resource for traveling in India. She has completed yoga teacher training in India and Bali.

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10 of the best meditation retreats in the UK and Europe

We pick mindfulness and meditation holidays in beautiful surroundings – many combined with other activities like walking, singing and tai chi More retreat top 10s: yoga | creative | by readers

Back to nature, Devon

In the Dart valley near Totnes, the Sharpham Trust meditation centre offers mindfulness retreats of different lengths throughout the year, including walking and singing breaks. Some are held in the estate’s mansion, others in the Barn Retreat nearby. For full immersion in the natural world, its Nature Connection retreat has accommodation in bell tents in the woods, with guided meditation and mindfulness activities, foraging and feasting on wild food. Three-night meditation retreats from £14 5 full-board. Three-night Nature Connection retreat, 25 July, £335 full-board, sharphamtrust.org

Meditation and singing, UK, various

Wild Voice retreats combine meditation, singing, nature and adventure. The singing includes vocal workshops and outdoor choir sessions – participants don’t need to read music and no one has to sing a solo (phew!). Works range from classical pieces to pop songs, and everyone takes home a live recording. Mornings begin with meditation, yoga and tai chi, and outdoor activities might be kayaking, guided nature walks and campfire singsongs. There are three locations: a mansion in the Scottish Borders, a castle in Gloucestershire and a country estate near Stratford-upon-Avon. The first Wild Voice festival will take place this year in Northamptonshire (from £149, 31 May to 2 June). Three days full-board £399, four days £499 , next retreat 26-29 April, wildvoiceadventures.com

Peace and love, Devon

One of the largest residential meditation centres in Europe, Gaia House, near Denbury, offers silent retreats in the Buddhist tradition (though all faiths and none are welcome). Group retreats range from two to nine nights – with titles like A Path of Peace and Kindness and Awakening and Liberating the Heart – and are led by different teachers, with accommodation mostly in shared rooms in the lovely old country house. Three daily vegetarian or vegan meals are included. The grounds and countryside are good for peaceful strolls, with views over Dartmoor. Practising Samadhi (meditation) retreat, 2-4 March, from £128 full-board, plus voluntary donation for the teacher, gaiahouse.co.uk

Introduction to meditation, Suffolk

Leave the outside world behind on a retreat at the brand new Vajrasana centre in the Suffolk countryside east of Bury St Edmunds. Courses are run by the London Buddhist Centre, but you don’t need to be Buddhist to attend. Besides meditation instruction, there are workshops and talks as well as periods of silence – digital detox is encouraged, with no mobile phones or laptops. Accommodation is in shared rooms and vegan meals are eaten together. There are also yoga weekends, regulars’ weekends and longer retreats. Two-night weekends run eight times a year, next one 25 January, £195 full-board, return coach transfers from London, £42, lbc.org.uk

Solo summer retreat, Lefkada, Greece

Aimed at the solo traveller, Serenity retreats, held in May, June and September on the Ionian island of Lefkada, offer a proper holiday with time on the beach or pottering in the village alongside meditation. Self-catering apartments (for one) are right on the sea, and daily guided meditation, mindful walks through olive groves and mindful movement sessions are included – led by down-to-earth zen meditation teacher Kim Bennett. There are various optional wellbeing courses (such as the art of self-compassion, donation based) as well as a choice of on-site treatments. From £509 for a week , with accommodation and instruction, meals and flights extra, serenityretreat.co.uk

A place ‘to be’, Dordogne, France

The Moulin de Chaves riverside meditation centre near the village of Cubjac was once a Zen monastery and makes an idyllic place to retreat from the world. Guests stay in the beautiful main house or pre-erected tents in the grounds with beds and bedding provided (camping is also sometimes possible). The programme for 2019 includes a week of mindful yoga and meditation (15-20 July) led by Moulin founders Martin and Gail Aylward and conducted mostly in silence. A new yoga hall built of local oak with hemp walls opens this year. From €300 full-board in a shared tent or €325 in a room, plus voluntary donation for teaching, moulindechaves.org

Saintly retreat, Assisi, Italy

Based in a family-run hotel in the ancient hilltop town of Assisi in Umbria, non-profit organisation Simply Peace runs retreats combining meditation with daily walks to local sacred sites (many associated with St Francis, who was born here). No experience is necessary for the heart-centred meditation practised, and one-to-one guidance is included. There’s plenty of free time in the afternoon to explore the town and surrounding countryside too. Five-night retreat from €995 half-board, assisiretreats.org

Mindful feasting, Wicklow, Ireland

Learn mindful cooking, eating and walking on a five-day silent meditation retreat at the coastal Bobbio Centre, 45 miles south of Dublin, in County Wicklow. Paola Vais, who trained at the Ballymaloe cookery school, leads vegan and vegetarian cooking classes. Mindful meditation, walking and eating sessions are run by Marjó Oosterhoff, owner of the Passaddhi Retreat centre in County Cork. There’s plenty of time for beach strolls and local exploring too. No experience needed. 19-23 June, €300 for food and accommodation, guidance on a donation basis, passaddhi.com

Silent walking, Northern Spain

Delve deep into the forests and mountains of Somiedo parque natural in Asturias on a week-long mindfulness and walking retreat led by UK-based therapist and trainer Frankie Sikes. Accommodation is in rustic self-catering apartments in La Pinietsa, a traditional stone farmhouse, and the mindful, silent walks are gentle and slow (practised as a type of meditation), with packed lunches provided (and phones and cameras left behind). The area is stunningly beautiful and there’s a free day to explore towns such as Oviedo or take a bear-watching trip. Seven-day retreat £650, including transfers, breakfast and some lunches, various dates, walkinginspirit.co.uk

Tai chi, Canary Islands

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A Super Simple Travel Meditation: How to Transform Your Travel Experience

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

Meditation is an often-misunderstood word.

For many it conjures up images of cave-dwelling ascetics or posh retreats in Bali. But meditation for travelers can come in many forms, and doesn’t necessarily require isolation, silence, or sitting in a lotus pose for set period of time. It can even be as simple as staying present while traveling .

The travel meditation I’m going to introduce totally transformed the way I travel, allowing me to experience destinations and environments on a substantially deeper level, and with such profoundness that even 5, 10, 15 years later, I can still vividly recall exactly how I felt when I was in those place, forever etching those life-transforming travel experiences on my psyche.

This meditation can be done anywhere and at anytime, but there are specific locations that are more conducive than others, and travelers will generally find more opportunities to make use of this meditation due to the nature of their daily experience of visiting spiritually significant or aesthetically inspiring places on their journeys.

This meditation is incredibly simple and it is nothing new; I didn’t invent it, and it draws on an underlying component of all forms of meditation. You don’t need to join a retreat or seek guidance from an instructor, nor do you need to find quiet time and a place where no one will bother you.

Related article: Tips for Doing Yoga while Traveling

Table of Contents

Meditation for Travelers

By meditating on the places we travel to, our journey becomes a kind of pilgrimage. You don’t even have to be a religious or spiritual person to agree that as travelers, we are all pilgrims of sorts, expending great resources, energy, and time to seek out beauty and inspiration in the world.

So why not make the best of your travel experience by giving it your full attention? Go ahead and take some pictures, but at some point put your camera away and take the time to fully experience your surroundings, and here is how you can do that:

My Simple Travel Meditation

This meditation for travelers can be summarized in a single word, and this word is the underlying essence of all forms of meditation: breathing.

We are all breathing all the time, but seldom do we pay real attention to this life-sustaining act. To focus on the breath is to meditate, to dwell in the present, to be awake, to be fully alive.

In the context of travel, focusing on one’s breath while visiting a sacred, inspiring, or aesthetically beautiful environment can amplify the depth of one’s experience a hundredfold.

Colors may appear brighter, sounds more resonant, and synchronicity with ones surroundings can more easily be achieved. You can actually physically feel the connection between yourself and your environment, a state that you are always in but your mind makes you believe otherwise by convincing you that you are somehow independent of the world around you.

Different people may have different ways to practice breathing meditation, but here’s what I usually do. When I find myself in a suitable location (see below), I first correct my posture, whether I am sitting or standing (though I usually do this meditation while walking around).

Next, I initiate meditative breathing , all the while staying fully aware of my surroundings, whether it be a bustling ancient souq, mountaintop with a view, or a dark, incense smoke-filled temple. It doesn’t matter where you are, so long as you are fully aware of and connected to that place.  

With every inhalation, I envision that I am inhaling all the energy present in that location. Depending on where it is, this energy can be one or both of two forms. The first is natural energy that is rooted in Mother Earth herself, and all life forms.

To focus on the breath is to dwell on the simple fact that we and the natural world are one on the same interconnected thing. The second is the energy of human presence, prayer, love, and devotion that has been left behind by other visitors.

By simply being present in a place we are simultaneously becoming a part of that place by breathing in molecules of it, and leaving behind a bit of ourselves by breathing out molecules of our bodies.

This is a scientific concept as much as a spiritual one. We do this whether we are conscious of it or not. Simply bringing awareness to the process as it is unfolding is to meditate on the interconnection of all things.

Personally I find it most effective to inhale deeply through the nose, hold the breath for several seconds in my lungs, and exhale though the mouth. As I exhale, I visualize that I am sending out peace and compassion too all forms of life sharing this place, or who will visit it in the future and share my energy and experience.

This is no different than monks who meditate on artwork such as mandalas, except that our mandala becomes the world. You could focus on the colors, the sounds, the smells, the people, the architecture, and so forth. Just like mandalas, each and every environment offers something unique.

I’ll give three personal examples from a single country that I visited, Egypt. When I went inside the Pyramid of Khafre, I meditated on the heaviness of the air, with its 4500 years of history. Atop Mount Sinai I meditated on the sunrise and the songs of a group of Christian pilgrims who were singing hymns nearby, allowing their devotion to resonate in my own body. And while scuba diving in the Red Sea, I meditated on the brilliance of the rainbow of underwater colors.

If you are traveling with a companion, it is better not to chat while meditating, and there are moments when of course you may be interrupted by people who want to communicate with you, or you may need to do something, like show a ticket, buy a drink, etc.

Do not view these as interruptions to your experience but as akin to the chattering that comes and goes in your own mind when doing classic meditation. Don’t try to avoid interruptions or get frustrated when they arise, and return to your meditation whenever circumstances become suitable again.

Unlike classic meditation, you don’t have to devote a set period of time in your day to it. Rather, you can come in and out of this state of meditation continually throughout the day whenever you see fit.

Where This Travel Meditation Works Best

As travelers we gravitate to places that are aesthetically pleasing, or culturally, historically, or religiously significant. These places also happen to be focal points of more concentrated energy, or expressed otherwise, areas where the energy that is present everywhere in the world is more readily experienced by humans.

For this reason, this meditation works best in places of immense natural beauty or of religious, cultural, or historical importance. For the former, I usually zone in on the sensual aspects, the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings of the environment while simultaneously remaining aware of my breath.

For the latter, I also try to visualize those events or ideas that made this sight sacred or significant to humans, and all those visitors who’ve journeyed there to stand in the same place. Many of the world’s holiest sights, greatest temples or monasteries, and other man-made wonders also happen to be found in locations of stunning natural beauty, and that is no coincidence, so oftentimes you can find both types of energy in one place.

Ideal places can also vary by person. If you find artwork inspiring, meditate before paintings. If you love the buzz of a noisy crowd, then try meditating on the sights and smells of a busy market. If you feel at home in the mountains, then meditate on the tress and vistas next time you are hiking rather than thinking about what you are going to do tomorrow or once you arrive at the next rest stop.

Breathing mediation is also great when eating. Close you eyes and take deep breaths while you focus your mind on the smells and flavors of the food; ponder the sources of those ingredients, the process by which they got to your table, who prepared them for you, and so on. Don’t be surprised to find that the food tastes substantially better once you simply pay proper attention to it.

Earlier in my travels I used to consciously remind myself to do breathing meditation whenever I found myself in an appropriate place, but over time I found I would automatically go into that state of breath awareness without even thinking about it every time I found myself somewhere inspiring.

Next you can take this travel meditation a step further by applying it to your daily life — to meditate on the not-so-obviously beautiful or amazing places, such as city streets, the view from your bedroom window, or even your bathroom. Because there is beauty everywhere, and we are always connected, we just need to pay attention to fully experience it.

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2 thoughts on “A Super Simple Travel Meditation: How to Transform Your Travel Experience”

Thank you for writing this, it really resonates with me. It took awhile to adjust the mindset that leads us out of the ‘party mode’ it only serves us for so long and then it about the bigger picture of where we are instill with the moment that is now.

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This Oceanfront Resort on Florida's Amelia Island Is One of Its Most Luxurious Stays — and It Now Has a 25,000-square-foot Spa

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island just debuted a new luxury wellness space, ideal for retreats and relaxing stays.

Courtesy of The Ritz Carlton Amelia Island

Amelia Island , the lush barrier island along Florida’s Atlantic coast, is a serene and unspoiled destination with stunning beaches, sand dunes, marches, and maritime forests. The island’s natural beauty makes it the ideal place for a wellness getaway, and now its most prominent luxury stay , the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island , has introduced a reimagined spa and wellness programming focusing on holistic experiences.

The expanded facilities boast 25,000 square feet of modern spaces comprising a bright, light-filled gym with a private training studio, a yoga and meditation space, a beauty salon, hydrotherapy facilities, and treatment rooms.

“Seeing an uptick in our guests’ desire for holistic wellness experiences while staying on property, we made the decision to completely revamp our spa and wellness center with expanded wellness spaces, new signature spa treatments, and a roster of new fitness classes and other programming. Our tailor-made wellness journeys and experiences were carefully curated to best optimize our guests’ wellbeing and we know our guests will leave the property feeling refreshed and energized,” Gary Virden, the property’s director of spa and recreation, said in a press release provided to Travel + Leisure .

The reimagined programming aims to improve the mind, body, and skin through customized workouts massages, and facials. Some of the highlights include a full-body red light therapy that uses low-level laser technology to relieve muscle tension and joint pain and fight inflammation; a bamboo massage; and a natural resilience facial using a variety of detoxifying and sculpting techniques.

Additionally, the resort offers overnight spa packages, half-day and full-day wellness retreats with spa treatments, forest bathing, sound therapy, facial workouts, and nutritious meals as part of a well-rounded experience.

The property is hosting a celebratory wellness retreat to kick off its new programming and celebrate the renovation that will take place from April 19 until 21. As part of it, guests will participate in meditation, yoga, and movement classes, beach walks, signature spa treatments, nutrition consultations, and meals (rates start at $450, exclusive of accommodation).

The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, opened in 1991 and underwent a complete renovation in 2021. The 446-key resort is a favorite of families thanks to a large number of kid-friendly amenities , including its prime ocean-front location that allows guests direct access to the island’s beautiful beaches.

Shhh, I’m on vacation. Travelers are on a quest for the quiet

At home in the New York City suburbs, Oscar Sandoval has lots of friends and an active social life. But when it’s time for vacation, he prefers to keep it quiet. Like, literally.

Sandoval began practicing Zen Buddhism a few years back, and has been on silent retreats to Buddhist monasteries around San Francisco and elsewhere. He’d stroll, sit, do some gardening and generally contemplate life for a week. More recently, he’s done solo backpacking trips across Spain.

“The internal experience varies from times of very little thinking to periods of many thoughts or songs playing in my head,” he says. “The utter peace and stillness is impossible to put into words.”

Travel journalist Chloe Berge bemoaned the buzzing interruption of a drone while she was hiking the Faroe Islands’ remote coastline during the pandemic. “The world is getting louder, and it’s increasingly harder to escape the noise, even in nature.”

But it’s worth a try, say the travelers who are seeking relief in silence. Or as close as they can get to it.

From serene nature retreats to silent walking, the quest for quietude has become one of modern travel’s latest trends. Conde Nast Traveler said last month it was “the travel trend we’re most obsessed with this year.”

For many, quiet travel goes beyond escaping the cacophony of everyday life while on vacation. It can be a shift toward introspection; a deeper connection with where we are both literally and figuratively.

You might even feel healthier .

In a study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry in late 2022, for instance, mindfulness meditation worked as well as a standard drug for treating anxiety.

“Transformative travel’s a trend we’re tracking for growth,” says Alex Hawkins, editor at the trend forecaster and consultancy The Future Laboratory. “It taps into consumers’ desire for self-reflective tourism experiences.”

The “wellness tourism industry,” he says, includes “demand for hyper-personal holidays and health-driven stays.”

PEACEFUL PAMPERING

The company Dark Retreats Oregon offers a five-day “Dark Retreat” in Tidewater, Oregon, as “a great space for self-care” through darkness, digital detox and a healthy diet. Participants can keep the lights off as much as they want during their stay, and can also decide how much they talk to others.

BookRetreats, which urges clients to “Unplug. De-stress. Recharge,” offers silent meditation retreats in Bali, Portugal, Mexico and the Netherlands, and closer to home in North Carolina, Quebec and California.

Finland’s Utula Nature offers a silent stay amidst the pines on Lake Saimaa, about five hours from Helsinki.

SERENE STROLLING

Ditching the phone, zipping your lip, and putting on your comfy hikers; that’s the silent walking trend that’s found thousands of friends on TikTok.

Gordon Hempton is an acoustic ecologist in Washington State also known as The Sound Tracker. He’s spent several decades roaming rainforests, coastlines and deserts looking for interesting and often rare nature sounds — sounds you can’t easily hear when there’s a lot of human-made noise. “I care very deeply about quiet,” he says.

He’s a co-founder of Quiet Parks International, a non-profit created to raise awareness of the benefits for both people and wildlife of less noise. Ecuador’s Zabalo River park was the first to receive quiet park designation – it’s not technically “quiet,” of course: Howler monkeys, birds, insects and the thrum of the river provide a natural soundtrack. But the nearest concentration of human activity is a village of roughly 200 people, about 10 miles away.

There are even a couple of urban areas designated as quiet parks – one just outside the bustling metropolis of Taipei, Taiwan’s capital. Another is in Hampstead Heath, about 30 miles from central London. The grassy, 800-acre park inspired C.S. Lewis’ “The Chronicles of Narnia.”

Quiet Parks International offers experiences like forest bathing , where you open your senses to the meditative and relaxing elements of a walk in the woods.

For those who can’t get out to nature, the Quiet Parks website has recordings of wildlife and weather in the rainforest; morning in the West Texas desert; and sounds of day and nightfall in northern Alaska.

LOW-KEY LOST

Black Tomato’s got an interesting proposition for you. The avant-garde travel company offers a trip they call Get Lost. You fill out an extensive questionnaire on what you’re expecting from your escape, but you’ll have no idea where you’re going till they get you there. Environment options are Polar, Desert, Coastal, Jungle or Mountain.

You’re given pre-trip prep advice and navigation instruction, and then, at trip time, all the transfers, gear and mapped-out checkpoints you’ll need. Your progress is monitored by a specialist in the chosen environment and by a local guiding support team. You can bail out at any time.

“We’ve sent clients to Iceland and Alaska,” says Black Tomato’s co-founder Tom Marchant. “We sent one solo traveler to Mongolia.” A woman trekked on her own across Morocco’s Atlas Mountains.

Marchant says there’s the challenge of managing the environment, but “it’s also a time to truly disconnect from daily life in an entirely new way.”