Looking for a way to start the next decade as you mean to go on? Then give the holiday hedonism a rest and take mind and body away on a fitness break. From Mexico to Menorca, Thailand to Tuscany, here’s our roundup of the very best places to run, jump, swim, bend, lift, eat, and meditate your way to improved fitness and health this year.
Outdoor Bootcamp in Menorca, Spain
The clue is in the name. Wildfitness specializes in taking all your favorite gym-based activities outdoors, using more “natural” equipment. Activities include throwing, lifting, running, and combat drills, as well as sunrise yoga, stargazing, and journaling to nourish your soul. Expect wellness gains and a reconnection to the elements that we often take for granted.
Getting there: Fly to Menorca. Six nights start from £1155, including accommodation, meals, daily group sessions, workshops, and a massage. The dates for this year’s offerings are to be confirmed.
Holistic Heaven in Baja California, Mexico
Rancho La Puerta offers an ultra-luxury wellness experience in Baja California that will leave you feeling more relaxed than ever. Enjoy stunning views of the Kuchumaa mountains while you walk in 4000 acres of gardens, participate in yoga sessions, go for sunrise trail runs, explore sound therapy, or join a drum dance class. This wellness retreat features a meat-free menu, and while alcohol is allowed, it is discouraged.
Getting there: Fly into San Diego, where transfers are provided to Tecate, Mexico. Rates available upon request.
Try Something New in Lanzarote, Spain
Founded in 1983, Club La Santa is one of the original specialist fitness resorts. With 400 rooms and four on-site restaurants, it offers more activities than you can fit into a week. Enjoy tennis courts, water sports, golf putting, 11 badminton courts, a 400m running track, and three outdoor Olympic swimming pools.
Getting there: Fly to Arrecife on the island of Lanzarote. Packages start at £645 for seven nights, with options for self-catering, half board, or full board.
Bend and Flex in Ko Samui, Thailand
Absolute Sanctuary is a highly regarded wellness spa in Ko Samui, known for its yoga programs. They offer 22 different wellness programs lasting anywhere from three to 60 days, focusing on detox, pampering, sleep improvement, and lifestyle change. Each program provides ample opportunities for yoga enthusiasts to refine their skills.
Getting there: Fly to Samui. Rates start at £1000 for seven nights of accommodations plus access to spa facilities. Wellness programs are charged separately.
All-Inclusive Fun in Castries, St Lucia
“Give us your body for a week and we’ll give you back your mind,” is the promise at BodyHoliday. Visitors can choose from a variety of activities, from sunbathing and enjoying the culinary offerings to rigorous training sessions. The resort features numerous fitness classes, adventurous activities like rappelling, kayaking, and dance classes, ensuring an engaging experience for all.
Getting there: Fly to Hewanorra, St Lucia. Packages start from £2000 for a luxury room for seven nights, available year-round.
Take to the Trails in Girona, Spain
If your running routine has grown stale, break free with a trip to the Costa Brava on a specialist runners’ retreat. Instead of monotonous laps, enjoy mid-run breaks at historical sites, running through scented forest trails, and picnicking in secluded spots. Additional options include mountain biking and visiting Michelin-starred restaurants for a true culinary experience.
Getting there: Fly to Girona. Costs start at £760 for six nights.
DNA-Based Fitness in Ibiza, Spain
The party island of Ibiza is transforming its reputation with 38°N. Using a five-star hotel as your base, engage in outdoor workouts, circuit classes, kickboxing, and mountain runs. For those interested in performance optimization, DNA analysis is available to customize nutrition and training.
Getting there: Fly to Ibiza. Packages begin at £2500 for six nights, including meals and activities.
Improve Your Gut Health in Tuscany, Italy
In the idyllic rolling hills of Tuscany, Fonteverde offers a gut-health and anti-stress program called Equilibrium. This holistic experience includes medical consultations, dietary plans, spa treatments, cooking classes, sufficient sleep, and a personalized program to take home, ensuring you continue your progress after your stay.
Getting there: Fly to Perugia. Costs begin at £2680 for seven nights plus the Equilibrium program.
Get Juiced Up in Sertã, Portugal
Juicy Oasis is a luxury retreat located two hours north of Lisbon, where healthy juices replace traditional meals. This unique experience allows guests to participate in various activities such as spin classes, sunrise hikes, and beach volleyball. While you’re there, unwind by the pool, explore nutrition seminars, or indulge in spa treatments.
Getting there: Fly to Lisbon. Packages start from £795 for a seven-night all-inclusive getaway.
Get Fit Out at Sea in the Mediterranean
Experience a unique blend of fitness and adventure with Sun Fun You cruises, navigating the Greek Islands of Kos, Rhodes, and Samos, along with the Turkish coast between Marmaris and Fethiye. Engage in HIIT and yoga sessions at sea, combined with hiking and cultural excursions on land, all fueled by fresh local cuisine.
Getting there: Fly to Kos or Dalaman. Trips last seven to nine days and are available from June to October.
This article was originally published on Nov 28, 2019, and updated on Jan 31, 2020.
