A Holistic Approach To Healing

There is a continued uptake in the desire for well-being holidays, as detailed in Design Hotels’ “Healing Escapes” trend from the Further Forecast 2024 report, emphasising a holistic approach to healing both body and mind. Here, we introduce a series of hotels that support this journey through a comprehensive programme of mental and physical rituals, along with therapeutic design that fosters contemplation and calm.

 

Greece – Magical Mykonos

 

The magic of Mykonos, with its striking white Cycladic architecture against the brilliant blue sky and sea, instantly evokes a holiday spirit. Perched on a hill, Myconian Kyma offers a sanctuary of laid-back luxury with lush gardens, sweeping views, and private terraces – some equipped with pools or Jacuzzis, complemented by art-infused interiors.

 

 

The hotel’s Satory Thalasso spa features five heated thalassotherapy pools, each providing unique seawater therapies, alongside treatments using the exclusive skincare lines of Augustine Bader and Ligne St. Barth. Completing the enchanting experience is the restaurant, which delights guests with exquisite Mediterranean cuisine crafted from the freshest seasonal produce sourced directly from family-owned farms.

 

For more information and reservations, call +30 (0) 228 – 902 – 3415 or email: kyma@myconiancollection.gr.

 

The Allure Of The Aegean

 

The Myconian Avaton, a sister property to Kyma, is located above Mykonos’ longest stretch of sand at Elia Beach, with breathtaking views of the vast blue Aegean Sea. The hotel features dramatic architectural elements such as double-volume spaces, panoramic decks and private balconies that offer unrivalled vistas, while ensuring absolute privacy. Its design, a harmonious blend of bright colours and a mix of modern and vintage styles, embodies a unique luxury that captures the essence of the island.

 

 

Enhancing the restorative allure of the Aegean, the hotel’s Sanctuary Spa provides an array of heated thalassotherapy pools and rejuvenating treatments, such as a chill-out body massage with warm shells or the frangipani salt glow scrub. For a serene escape from daily stress, the Avaton pool terrace, a stunning spot that seems to float above the landscape, offers one of the island’s finest views of the Aegean.

 

For more information and reservations, call +30 (0) 228 – 907 – 6100 or email: avaton@myconiancollection.gr.

 

Santorini’s Secret Hideaway

 

A refreshing take on the Greek seaside resort, Istoria is 12-suite hideaway with stripped down contemporary aesthetics away from the tourist spots on Santorini’s southeast coast. In the hotel’s bright sculptural suites, impressive arched openings guide guests towards introspective terraces with private Jacuzzis and/or pools. Here, one can enjoy moments of profound privacy and breathtaking views. An expansive pool, decorated with stunning green artisan tiles and enclosed by protective walls and loungers, boasts a distinctive sunken pool bar.

 

 

The serene Elios Spa provides holistic treatments using solely organic, locally sourced materials. Skilled yoga instructors also deliver transformative sessions for total physical and emotional rejuvenation. Alternatively, take off on cliff-top walks to volcanic vistas for some of the Mediterranean’s finest hikes.

 

For more information and reservations, call +30 (0) 228 – 608 – 5051 or email: reservations@istoriahotel.gr.

 

London Calling…. But Quietly

 

Inhabit Queen’s Garden in central London is a wellness escape from the city within the city. Every aspect of Inhabit Queen’s Gardens is meticulously crafted to promote equanimity and well-being. From the tranquil colour palettes and natural materials to the nourishing, plant-focused cuisine and alcohol-free selections at the Kitchen restaurant, each element is designed for health and harmony.

 

 

The bedrooms are sanctuaries for sleep, featuring soothing colours, bespoke aromatherapy and a meditative atmosphere that skillfully blends Scandinavian, British and Eastern influences. Peaceful communal spaces include a silent library filled with inspiring literature and a subterranean wellness spa, Inhale at Inhabit, which offers Gaia treatments. Guests are invited to partake in daily yoga, Pilates, or guided meditation sessions.

 

For more information and reservations, call +44 (0) 207 – 479 – 2333 or email: stay.queensgardens@inhabithotels.com.

 

Portugal’s Age Of Discovery

 

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon, on the serene banks of the Tagus River, Altis Belém Hotel & Spa creates a captivating retreat inspired by faraway voyages, cuisines and more. Its rooms, exotic yet minimalist, feature artful depictions of the lands visited by Portuguese explorers. The hotel’s Michelin-starred Feitoria Restaurant & Wine Bar blends the finest of Portuguese gastronomy with global flavours, complemented by an extensive wine selection.

 

 

The 1,000-square-metre, internationally acclaimed BSpa by Karin Herzog offers complete tranquillity by the river. The Thermo Garden is equipped with an indoor heated pool, a contrast pool, a Vichy shower and a hammam. Here, guests can indulge in treatments that blend signature oxygen therapy with ancient oriental relaxation techniques, creating a truly serene experience.

 

For more information and reservations, call +351 (0) 210 – 400 – 200 or email: reservations@altishotels.com.

 

Germany’s Genteel Getaway

 

In the middle of the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park in northeastern Saarland, the Seezeitlodge Hotel & Spa offers a world-class spa and culinary delights for a truly transformative experience. The hotel is strategically positioned to maximise the stunning views of Lake Bostalsee and to align with the sun’s path, enhancing guests’ connection to the forest and lake.

 

 

Spanning 5,000-square-metres, the award-winning Seezeit spa includes an outdoor Celtic sauna village, designed according to documented earth energies and a breathtaking infinity pool. The spa’s use of Celtic healing traditions is evident in its sauna rituals and signature treatments, which incorporate herbs from the hotel’s own garden. This serene retreat promises rejuvenation and a deep, restorative connection with nature.

 

For more information and reservations, call +49 (0) 685 – 280 – 980 or email: mail@seezeitlodge.de.

 

Beautiful Bavarian Resort

 

In southeast Germany, Das Achental is settled in the Chiemgau Alps near Lake Chiemsee, set against a stunning Moorish backdrop. The interiors blend natural fabrics, warm colours, brushed wood, high-quality leather and designer furniture, creating a cozy, modern Alpine feel with abundant light. Its two-Michelin-star restaurant, es:senz, highlights the region’s bounty under a master chef’s guidance.

 

 

The resort boasts an extensive garden and a 2,000-square-metre wellness area with diverse saunas and a sunlit indoor infinity pool. The spa emphasises organically certified natural products, while its commitment to yoga, nutritious dining, inner balance and outdoor activities enriches the experience in this beautiful corner of Bavaria.

 

For more information and reservations, call +49 (0) 8641 – 4010 or email: reservierung@das-achental.com.

 

Italy’s Art Of Doing Nothing

 

Parkhotel Mondschein, nestled against the majestic Dolomites and surrounded by the scenic vineyards of Bolzano, offers a serene sanctuary for those seeking to embrace il dolce far niente – the sweetness of doing nothing. The hotel is enveloped by a lush park, creating an oasis of tranquility in its urban setting. Guests can enjoy leisurely strolls on curved gravel paths or relax on shaded benches.

 

 

The poolside is ideal for sunbathing in the warmer months, while the in-house Arise studio offers yoga classes and retreats and welcomes both hotel guests and Bolzano residents alike. By night, the hotel’s Bar Luna shifts from a health-focused breakfast spot to a lively wine and cocktail bar. Offering a mix of relaxation, activities, Italian cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Parkhotel Mondschein delivers a holistic experience.

 

For more information and reservations, call +39 (0) 471 – 975 – 642 or email: info@parkhotelmondschein.com.

 

 

Source: Design Hotels.