Sometimes, you just need to rest, recharge, and take a mental break from life's daily grind. Not only do you deserve a peaceful escape, but a mind and body reset is essential for your overall well-being. As the Mind & Body Deputy Editor at Eat This, Not That!, I receive countless invitations each year to experience some of the world’s top wellness retreats firsthand. These trips have deepened my understanding of what makes a truly restorative and luxurious getaway, allowing me to curate this list of the best wellness destinations for a rejuvenating vacation. Consider it the crème de la crème of my wellness travels, complete with my honest reviews.
Over the past few years, I've found tranquility in breathtaking mountainside retreats, charming coastal cottages, private spas, and more. I’ve pampered myself with hydrotherapy soaks and enjoyed warm tiger clam shell massages on pristine white sandy beaches. Along the way, I’ve explored unique experiences like hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, yoga, hot air ballooning, sound healing, and farm-to-table dining—and that's just the beginning.
Now, close your eyes and picture your ideal wellness escape. Ready to plan your own restorative getaway? There’s a perfect retreat out there to rejuvenate your self-care routine, boost your energy, and align with your personal goals. Let’s find the one that’s calling your name.
Saratoga, WY: The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch
Whether or not you’re a fan of Yellowstone, this rustic yet upscale getaway epitomizes Western luxury. Nestled on over 30,000 secluded acres in Wyoming, The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch offers a modern twist on the classic dude ranch, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Medicine Bow National Forest. It’s an irresistible destination for those who want to reconnect with nature without sacrificing style.
I was invited to visit the ranch in March 2024, just as the snow season was winding down. It was no surprise to learn that this resort was voted the #1 Resort Hotel in the U.S. and #3 in the World by Travel + Leisure readers. The weather was a perfect balance of soft snowfalls and brilliant sunshine, creating a stunning winter wonderland. The ranch itself, home to two cattle herds and 120 horses, offers an authentic Western experience from the moment you arrive.
Fitness, Wellness, and Adventure
Each season at Brush Creek Ranch brings a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. In winter, you can enjoy activities like llama-guided snowshoeing through pristine trails, a full day of picnic horseback riding, or finding your inner calm with "snowga" (yoga in the snow). For a true Western thrill, try your hand at barrel racing or join a cattle drive. When the weather warms up, you can unwind with a scenic wine river float.
During my stay, the winter activities were especially appealing—partly because I had the chance to pack a suede fringed cowgirl jacket, hat, and boots before saddling up to explore Brush Creek's snow-dusted trails. The other reason? I got to ride Eddie, the sweetest horse ever!
For a more intense workout, I took on cross-country skiing. As an avid skier, I found it to be a refreshing and invigorating challenge, providing a serious cardio boost in the crisp country air. And where better to experience it than in the breathtaking winter landscapes of Wyoming?
When it was time to unwind, I made my way through the snowy trails to a charming vintage schoolhouse for a yoga session. The combination of meditation and stretching was just what I needed, and the peaceful walk to and from the schoolhouse turned out to be one of the most serene moments of my stay at the ranch.
Culinary Experiences
Waking up to a mountaintop sunrise at Brush Creek is nothing short of surreal, but the farm-to-table breakfast was the true highlight. I relaxed by the roaring fire in the lodge and indulged in a spread of homemade buttermilk biscuits with honey butter, fresh fruit, braised Akaushi wagyu hash, and a warm grain bowl brimming with quinoa, lentils, and garden tomatoes. It was the perfect way to start the day.
After a day filled with outdoor adventures, saloon cocktails were a must. But this wasn’t just any saloon—Brush Creek’s saloon is an elegant, early 19th-century Western log cabin, complete with a classic swinging front door. Inside, I enjoyed playful cocktails, played a few rounds of shuffleboard, and even took on a game of billiards, all in a cozy, upscale atmosphere.
Dinner at the luxurious Western "pasture-to-plate" Cheyenne Club Restaurant is a true indulgence. The menu boasts exquisite dishes like Miso Glazed Black Cod and Hearth Grilled Venison Saddle, with the beef sourced directly from the ranch's own wagyu cattle. Selecting wine was an adventure in itself, with over 500 varieties from around the world to choose from, making every aspect of the meal unforgettable.
Wine lovers, take note! Brush Creek boasts one of the top 10 largest wine collections in the world. I was absolutely amazed by their 94-yard underground wine tunnel, which stores an impressive 30,000 bottles. Guests can select their perfect bottle right from the tunnel to pair with dinner—now that’s a wine experience!
For those with a sweet tooth, the lodge is always stocked with freshly baked treats. My personal favorite? Cowboy cookies—chewy delights packed with pecans, chocolate, oats, and coconut.
Another unforgettable experience at Brush Creek Distillery was "Barrel Thieving." I had the chance to sample bourbon straight from the barrel using a pipette, and it's an indulgence I highly recommend!
Brush Creek Ranch Pricing
Every package at Brush Creek Ranch is all-inclusive, with add-ons available. Summer rates start at $2,700 per night, double occupancy; fall, $2,400+; winter, $1,710+.
Nassau, Bahamas: SLS Baha Mar
SLS Baha Mar in Nassau, Bahamas, is a tropical paradise that beckons sun seekers with its irresistible allure. Whether lounging in a water hammock with a coconut cocktail or sipping a Goombay Smash, I quickly understood why Nassau is called the "climate of perfection." The crystal-clear waters and lagoon pools offer pure tranquility, with miles of pristine white sand, plush cabanas, watersport fitness activities, and vintage airstream eateries adding to the charm.
What I loved most about my stay at SLS Baha Mar was that I never had to leave the resort to experience the ultimate relaxation. This beachfront haven has everything, from luxurious spa treatments and unique wellness activities like flamingo yoga to 45+ world-class dining options spread across the Baha Mar property. While Nassau has plenty to explore, I embraced the Bahamian vibe and let go of any rigid itinerary, allowing myself to truly unwind.
Fitness, Wellness, and Adventure
Each day at SLS Baha Mar brought new opportunities to stay active while soaking in the breathtaking tropical scenery. I started my mornings with refreshing power walks through lush gardens and along the beach, on my way to flamingo yoga. Practicing yoga in the presence of the Baha Mar Ambassador Flamingos made it an enchanting and unforgettable experience—one I highly recommend.
During my stay, I found my favorite spot at the Baha Bay Beach Club, where I could unwind and enjoy a refreshing tropical fruit salad paired perfectly with a piña colada. When I needed my dose of vitamin D, I was just steps away from a movie star-worthy dip in the infinity pool and a short stroll to the beautiful Cable Beach.
A major highlight of my time at SLS Baha Mar was the variety of water activities available. From floating lounges to paddleboarding and kayaking, there was something new to try every day, keeping my stay fresh, active, and exciting.
Culinary Experiences
As a true foodie, I made sure to indulge in everything SLS Baha Mar had to offer. One of the standout experiences was donning an apron for a traditional Bahamian cooking class with the talented Chef Tevin Kemp. Together, we created a seasonal menu featuring a mouthwatering fish stew and homemade bread. Chef Kemp even serenaded us with a little singing as we cooked, adding to the fun.
For a more laid-back, local experience, I grabbed lunch from one of the vintage airstreams at the beach. Enjoying fresh fruit juice, poké, burrito bowls, and mojitos with stunning ocean views was an absolute delight.
When dinner arrived, the choices were endless and did not disappoint. I fell in love with the spanakopita and espresso martinis at Cleo Mediterráneo, an upscale venue showcasing the culinary talent of award-winning chef Danny Elmaleh and fresh Bahamian ingredients.
If Mediterranean cuisine isn’t your top pick, don’t worry—the Baha Mar property boasts over 45 restaurants, bars, and lounges, serving a variety of cuisines. You can indulge at Carna, an upscale steakhouse, or Katsuya, where sushi, robata classics, and California fusion come together for a remarkable dining experience.
Additional Activities
Visiting the resort's Current Art Studio was an inspiring experience. The collection of contemporary art from Bahamian artists was truly extraordinary. The studio offers hands-on activities like botanical leaf printing, where you can master the art of mono-printing using tropical leaves, as well as sip 'n paint sessions, acrylic pouring, and landscape painting workshops.
SLS Baha Mar Pricing
A Superior King room ranges from approximately $284 – $900 per night.
Rancho Mirage, CA: Sensei Porcupine Creek
Tucked at the base of the breathtaking Santa Rosa Mountains in Rancho Mirage, CA, is Sensei Porcupine Creek, an exclusive luxury wellness retreat that's a favorite among fitness enthusiasts, celebrities, and pro athletes. After experiencing a full-body refresh at this serene oasis, it's clear why it’s considered the ultimate wellness getaway.
Every detail of my stay was designed to enhance my well-being according to "the Sensei Way," the resort's core philosophy. Rooted in science and supported by proven methods, this approach is led by top wellness experts utilizing advanced technology, including tools for "thermal body mapping," VO2 Max testing, and health tracking. The result? A wellness retreat experience like no other. To top it off, I had my own private casita, complete with a personal plunge pool—an ideal sanctuary to retreat to each day.
Fitness and Wellness
I worked closely with my Sensei Guide, who helped me set clear wellness intentions focused on unwinding, relaxing, and improving my sleep. The Rest and Recovery Program was the perfect fit for me. Through personalized consultations with yoga, fitness, and nutrition experts, I learned valuable techniques for better sleep and relaxation, as well as exercises I continue to practice at home.
Sensei offers other programs, including the Golf Optimal Wellbeing Program, Tennis Optimal Wellbeing Program, Guided Wellness Experience, Sensei Coachella Valley Hiking Experience, and Sabbatical Experience. Each Optimal Wellbeing Program pairs you with a dedicated Sensei Guide and wellness practitioners to help you achieve your goals.
The shining star of my stay—and I had many!—was the Calming Body Cocoon. This spa experience featured a series of breathing exercises, dry body brushing, a melted candle wax massage, and a warm cocoon body wrap.
I also enjoyed a Desert Herb Poultice and Oil Massage, a total-body ritual that connected me with nature through steam-heated desert herb poultices and aromatic oils. The nutrients rejuvenated and nourished my skin.
When it was time for some activity, I laced up my tennis shoes and headed to Sensei's courts for Tennis Basics. The breathtaking desert scenery made it the perfect backdrop for a game—even as a beginner! Learning from a pro in such a stunning setting felt like a dream come true.
To fully unwind, I joined a session of Breathwork Basics. Wrapped in a cozy blanket, I indulged in guided breathwork meditation, a deeply calming and restorative experience.
Culinary Experiences
Sensei Porcupine Creek's culinary experiences are just as remarkable as the rest of the retreat. One of my most memorable sessions was Sensory Eating, part of the Rest and Recovery Program. During this session, I savored exquisite dishes from the Sensei by Nobu kitchen while practicing mindful eating techniques, turning each meal into a meditative experience.
I dined at Sensei by Nobu, indulged at Sensei's Sushi Bar, and enjoyed the delicious poolside menu throughout my stay. For those looking to explore beyond the retreat, downtown Palm Springs is just a 20-minute drive away, with popular spots like Cheeky's, Gabino's Creperie, and Trio Restaurant waiting to be discovered.
Sensei Porcupine Creek Pricing
Lodging ranges from approximately $945 – $2,050 per night.
Sag Harbor, NY: Baron's Cove
Sag Harbor is a quintessential coastal getaway in the Hamptons, offering the perfect blend of wellness, fitness, and adventure—both on land and water. After a short ferry ride and an Uber from Connecticut, I arrived eager to relax and explore Baron's Cove. If you're coming from Manhattan, it's about a two-hour drive, though you'll likely hit some traffic, especially in the summer.
Each morning at Baron's Cove, I woke up to the gentle breeze drifting from the bay to my porch. The peaceful atmosphere set the tone for the day, whether I opted for a yoga class on the lawn, a swim in the pool, a bike ride into town for iced coffee, or simply enjoying a fresh fruit smoothie on the hydrangea-covered front porch. With plush lounge chairs and cabanas just steps from the marina, I was perfectly situated to soak up the sun or dive into my favorite watersports.
Bonus: You might even spot Hamptons resident Billy Joel cruising by the resort, as I did during my stay!
Learning to wakesurf was one of the most exhilarating experiences during my time in Sag Harbor. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, wakesurfing in this picturesque village is a must. With guidance from a pro at Peconic Watersports, I mastered catching waves behind a boat designed to create perfect surfable swells. It was not only thrilling but also an amazing workout!
Another standout adventure was jet skiing through the stunning Peconic Bay. SeaDoo offers fantastic ride-alongs right in Sag Harbor, where you can cruise the bay, soak in the breathtaking views, and cool off in the refreshing waters—a perfect mix of excitement and relaxation.
Culinary Experiences
Naturally, my time in Sag Harbor wouldn’t have been complete without a sunset oyster sail—a must-do in the area. Thanks to Discover Boating, the boat rental and chartering process was effortless. As the crew introduced me to the yacht lifestyle, I found a new appreciation for what I now call "water opulence"—sailing into the sunset while indulging in fresh local oysters. It was pure bliss.
To cap off my culinary adventures, I indulged in a chic clam and lobster bake on Long Beach. There’s nothing quite like sipping wine at sunset while enjoying a feast of fresh lobster, clams, coleslaw, potatoes, and cornbread. Dining on the sand at an elegantly set table, with the sunset melting into the water, felt truly surreal. Afterward, I cozied up by the fire pit, surrounded by blankets, plush pillows, and the perfect end to the evening—roasting marshmallows under the stars.
Baron's Cove Pricing
A Village Room ranges from approximately $209 – $1,669 per night.