In today's fast-paced world, finding the perfect escape to recharge is essential. Imagine stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life to experience pure peace in one of the most relaxing holiday destinations the world has to offer.
Whatever 'relaxation' means to you — whether it's lazing on white sand beaches in the South Pacific or enjoying the ultimate short-haul spa break in Europe — we've got you covered.
Our travel experts have scoured the globe to bring you the ultimate list of tranquil getaways. These handpicked destinations and luxury resorts promise to restore your sense of calm and leave you feeling utterly rejuvenated.
- Relaxing Holiday Destinations for Couples
- Relaxing Winter Sun Holiday Destinations
- Best Relaxing Holiday Destinations in Europe
- Best Wellness Hotels in Europe
Relaxing Holiday Destinations for Couples
French Polynesia
As relaxing holidays go, it doesn't come any more idyllic than French Polynesia. This iconic archipelago comprises over 100 paradisical islands and atolls, all rising out of the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific Ocean.
It's the perfect place for couples to switch off and have a castaway experience. Spend your days unwinding on secluded beaches, trekking through lush jungles at your own pace, encountering exotic wildlife or visiting traditional Polynesian spas, which can be found all over the islands.
Bora Bora and Tahiti are arguably the top two islands in the region for luxury hospitality. Bora Bora is renowned for being a honeymooner's hotspot with its amazing overwater bungalows at 'big name' resorts, such as the Four Seasons Bora Bora Resort and The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort.
And Tahiti is where you'll find The Brando — an ultra-exclusive, private island retreat, which was the former home of Hollywood star, Marlon Brando.
Between your next massage and simply watching the world go by, you'll also indulge in mouthwatering French Polynesian cuisine, which features lots of fresh seafood, tropical fruits and coconut milk.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is easily one of the most relaxing destinations for couples — which is in some part helped by the fine Chianti that flows through the region. It's serene landscapes, charming villages and historic hotels and villas make it a popular choice for couples looking for a peaceful escape to the countryside.
The slow pace of life here invites you to fully unwind and savour every moment. Of course, one of the best ways to experience Tuscany is to stroll through its sprawling vineyards on a private wine tasting tour.
If you're an art buff, travelling into Florence is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, where you'll encounter masterpieces by Michaelangelo meandering through its terracotta-coloured streets. Or if deep relaxation is on the cards, simply lounging by a pool under the warm Tuscan sun is an ideal way to take in the region's tranquil beauty.
To dial up the romance, stay at the showstopping Castelfalfi hotel. Perched on a hilltop in the heart of Tuscany, this 2,700-acre estate offers a range of immersive experiences for couples, from honey tasting to truffle hunting.
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
While you may not immediately think of the United Arab Emirates as being one of the most relaxing holiday destinations, the Middle East can actually be as laid back or as busy as you choose.
Beyond the glistening skyscrapers of Dubai or the capital city of Abu Dhabi, the lesser-known beach city of Ras Al Khaimah is something of a hidden gem for travellers looking for a relaxing break.
Boasting year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and enchanting 13th century archaeological sites, it makes for a truly romantic retreat for couples. Explore the region's stunning natural beauty and immerse yourself in authentic cultural experiences at a slower pace, such as the Bedouin Oasis desert camp, where you can see what life was like in a nomadic tribe.
After some leisurely adventuring, retreat to one of the city's ultra-luxury hotels, featuring world-class spas. Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort is an incredibly peaceful eco-sanctuary, surrounded by natural mangroves and with a supreme spa offering Thai healing therapies.
Or if the desert is more appealing, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert is an all-pool villa resort set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Al Hajjar mountains. Here, you can sleep under a canopy of stars and indulge in private dining experiences amid the sand dunes.
Relaxing Winter Sun Holiday Destinations
Madeira
Madeira — otherwise known as the 'Island of Eternal Spring' — is a wonderful place to unwind in winter thanks to its year-round mild climate, stunning landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere. With temperatures hovering around 19-21°C, even in January, it offers a perfect escape from the colder climes of home without the long flight times of the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean.
The island's lush mountains, dramatic cliffs, and black-sand beaches provide a unique backdrop for a relaxing getaway, while its quaint towns, such as Funchal, provide a peaceful ambiance with cobbled streets, historic sites, and mesmerising views of the Atlantic.
Enjoy a glamorous escape with all the details taken care of at Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira. This cliff top property oozes old world sophistication and is even home to four of the best restaurants in Funchal, including the Michelin-starred William restaurant.
Spend days exploring the island's picturesque terrain on guided mountain walks and botanical tours and find your inner calm with an 'After Sun Aloe Cocoon' treatment in the hotel's ocean-facing spa rooms.
"This extraordinary hotel is steeped in heritage and has exceptional service to match! Savour their famous high tea, served daily on Reid's terrace overlooking the ocean. With a temperate climate all year, it's the perfect winter break." — Alice, Europe Product Manager
Marrakech
Looking for more intense winter sun without the long-haul flight? Marrakech is less than four hours away from the UK and you can soak up the rays, even in winter, while exploring the city's magical Medina of Marrakesh — a UNESCO World Heritage site full of winding streets, colourful souks, and hidden riads.
After immersing yourself in the city's rich culture, treat yourself to a traditional hammam spa day or take leisurely strolls through the stunning Majorelle Gardens. While you may not picture this vibrant city as being one of the most relaxing places in the world, Morocco's thriving spa culture make it one of our top picks for a rejuvenating getaway.
After some leisurely adventuring, retreat to the ultra-exclusive Royal Mansour hotel. With its unique ‘medina within the medina’ concept, this urban oasis was commissioned by King Mohammed VI and comprises 53 private riads, instead of traditional rooms.
Each one is a masterpiece, featuring lush courtyards, plunge pools, and even hammams in larger riads. Every detail – from the intricate plasterwork to the silk rugs – exudes Moroccan artistry.
Inside, you’ll experience discreet service via hidden tunnels, world-class dining by a Michelin-starred chef, and serene gardens where you can unwind after a day of sightseeing. You’ll truly feel a world away from the hustle and bustle, while still being right in the heart of Marrakech.
Maldives
For many travellers, the Maldives is the epitome of a serene winter sun destination, offering unrivalled tranquillity amidst its turquoise lagoons and pristine beaches. Each paradise island is a haven of calm, where luxury hospitality and outstanding natural beauty come together to create the ultimate stress-melting getaway.
Located in the heart of the Indian Ocean, this iconic archipelago also enjoys year-round sunshine, making it a fabulous option for those looking to escape the cold temperatures and grey skies of the UK in winter.
Picture yourself sunbathing on the deck of your luxury overwater villa in the middle of January and admiring uninterrupted views of the ocean from your private infinity pool. Many of the most exclusive resorts in the region also provide private butler service as standard, so you won't even need to lift a finger while you're there.
To top it off, the Maldives is absolutely teeming with world-class spas offering a host of holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate both mind and body. Boutique resorts, like Huvafen Fushi in the North Malé Atoll, took their spa experience to new heights by introducing the world's first underwater spa, where you can unwind with a sumptuous massage while all manner of marine life floats by. Bliss!
Best Relaxing Holiday Destinations in Europe
Provence, France
Embrace a slower pace of life amidst the pretty lavender fields of Provence in France. The relaxing destination offers an irresistible combination of charming villages, historic chateaus, Mediterranean coastline and sunkissed hinterland.
Tranquil and timeless, this part of France is superb for a gourmet getaway. Spend your days enjoying leisurely vineyard tours, savouring seasonal Provençal cuisine, and dining at Michelin-starred restaurants on the French Riviera.
To get the quintessential Provence experience, stay at Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort. Nestled in a quiet corner of the countryside overlooking medieval mountain villages, this contemporary retreat features a zen garden and one of Europe's most stunning spas.
“A beautiful property in the quiet South of France, this resort is perfect for both total relaxation and active leisure. It really is a golfing paradise and has been voted in the top two for The Best Golf Resorts in Continental Europe in the famous Golf World (UK) TOP 100 for the last nine years on the trot!" — Peter, Travel Specialist
Lake Como, Italy
What could be more relaxing than watching the world go by from the banks of Lake Como? Its crystal-clear waters and grand villas make for a rejuvenating lakeside retreat that's as serene as it is refined.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps, the region comprises the towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, where you can meander down cobbled streets at your own pace and savour world-class Italian cuisine at local eateries, where you'll find plenty of fresh lake fish and handmade pasta on the menu.
Set in the heart of Lake Como, Passalacqua is a restored 18th-century hotel that's perfect for a peaceful escape. Offering breathtaking views of the lake, lush gardens and an intimate atmosphere, every detail of Passalacqua — from the exquisite cuisine to the warm, personalised service — invites you to unwind and simply be.
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife, the jewel of the Canary Islands, is a haven for travellers looking to escape the daily grind. With its golden sands, turquoise waters and year-round sunshine, it’s also the popular place to enjoy some rejuvenating winter sun post-Christmas.
Explore lush forests in Anaga, lounge on the volcanic sands of Playa de las Teresitas, or indulge in a luxurious spa retreat overlooking the ocean. The island’s laidback vibe pairs perfectly with its world-class resorts, charming villages and vibrant cuisine.
Located in Costa Adeje, on the southern coast of Tenerife, Royal River is ideal for couples looking to relax and reconnect. Comprising just 50 adult-only, villa-style accommodations, the resort is renowned for its incredible gastronomy; feast on imaginative tasting menus of Canarian squid tartar and Iberian dumplings, and sample the island's unique wines at 'Volcanic Wine Tasting' sessions.
Best Wellness Hotels in Europe
Six Senses Ibiza
Located on the chic, free-spirited north coast of the island, Six Senses Ibiza is a wellness-lover's dream with its tailor-made spa experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, health-focused dining and even a spiritual enrichment centre!
The hotel has appeared on BBC's 'Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby', giving travellers a behind the scenes glimpse into life at this extraordinary luxury resort and the effort that goes into creating a laid-back atmosphere and rejuvenating experience for guests.
Six Senses Ibiza's wellness programs can be tailored to your personal wellness goals, whether that be detox, fitness, sleep, biohacking, alchemy, mindfulness or a mixture of these. The resort also hosts visiting practitioners — leaders in the field of health and wellness — making it one of the most innovative wellness hotels in Europe today.
One&Only Portonovi
Set on the banks of Montenegro's UNESCO-protected Boka Bay, One&Only Portonovi is an oasis of tranquillity, just one hour's drive away from Dubrovnik.
This stunning Venetian-style property is home to the one-of-a-kind Chenot Espace spa, which offers a range of extraordinary wellness experiences for guests. Blending traditional Chinese medicine with cutting-edge spa therapies, it's best thought of a medicinal spa, which is perfect for travellers seeking a health overhaul.
“Chenot Espace spa at One&Only Portonovi is by far one of the best spas I have ever experienced. I highly recommend trying the signature Chenot Detox Body massage for a full body reset — it was the highlight of my trip to Montenegro." — Steph, Travel Specialist
The Chedi Andermatt
Nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps, The Chedi Andermatt is an Alpine-meets-Asian-style hotel with truly out-of-this-world wellness facilities.
The spa here is set across 2,400 sq m and features a heated outdoor pool so that you can swim against the breathtaking backdrop of snow-covered peaks. Other highlights include a hydrotherapy area with a variety of saunas and steam rooms, a relaxation lounge and a fitness studio equipped by TechnoGym.
Plus, with 12 opulent spa suites, enjoy a range of soothing treatments influenced by the hotel's mountain setting, infused with natural ingredients of juniper, sage and pine.
Another standout feature is the guest-favourite Winter Spa concept, where you can soothe aching muscles with a Finnish sauna and hot tub session — perfect for refreshing yourself after a day of on the slopes!
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