Work-life balance. Three little words that are so easy to say, yet so hard to achieve. So, there’s no time like the present to take yourself away from the fast pace of life, albeit temporarily, to relax, recharge and give yourself some well-deserved me-time. We have done the hard work for you, so read on for a selection of retreats where you can completely escape.
CHENA HUTS, SRI LANKA
Perfectly situated on the edge of Sri Lanka’s famous and historic, Yala National Park, Chena Huts, really does have it all. Boasting only 20 luxurious lodge retreats, set metres away from the beach, you can enjoy the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. Each thatched lodge evokes a rustic and colonial feel, yet still providing a modern and luxurious touch, and you can either relax in your own private plunge pool or at the hotel’s main pool, located next to the intimate jungle spa. For every night you choose to stay at Chena Huts, a complimentary game drive is included, with these game drives taking place early morning or in the afternoon, accompanied by highly experienced and professional guides who will make sure you get up close and personal with the resident wildlife, such as elephants, leopards and even sloth bears. After your game drive, why not unwind in the spa, where you can choose from a variety of holistic treatments and massages. For those looking for a chic, safari escape that ticks all the boxes, we certainly recommend this remote, jungle haven.
AMANPURI, PHUKET
The original of the Aman hotels needs no introduction. From the moment, you enter this property you experience the wow factor, from the perfectly manicured gardens along the drive way to the stunning open plan lobby in the style of a Thai palace. Once you get past the impressive swimming pool all you can see are towering palm trees and one of the best and only private beaches in Phuket. Pamper yourself at the hidden away spa, where treatment rooms are housed in individually enclosed pavilions, boasting divine views of the bay, and dine in luxury, choosing between authentic Japanese, South American or Thai cuisine in one of the ocean front restaurants. So, if you are looking for isolation, a stunning setting and pure luxury, then Amanpuri should be at the top of your list!
THE BRANDO, FRENCH POLYNESIA
Thirty miles north of Tahiti is an enchanting necklace of 12 beach fringed islets that was once the private atoll of Hollywood legend Marlon Brando. Now it’s home to a very exclusive escape which you can only reach by the resort’s own plane. The mood here is luxury unplugged, with 35 majestic, thatched-roof, beachfront villas, each with an outdoor bath, plunge pool, rocking chair for two, and a pair of chic vintage-style bicycles for freewheeling through the coconut palms. Everything here is included in your booking, from dreamy Polynesian spa treatments, lagoon cruises, and delicious French cuisine created by two Michelin star chef Guy Martin. This idyllic spot is best known for its castaway feel, whether you are snorkelling in the crystal clear South Pacific waters or eating fresh fruit whilst lounging on the white sands.
NORTH ISLAND, SEYCHELLES
North Island Lodge is a colonial chic sanctuary for both wildlife and guests. The 11 handcrafted villas, which are all bare wood and billowing cotton, have a quintessential rustic Robinson Crusoe feel, and being raised off the ground they catch the cooling Indian Ocean breezes. After a day soaking up the sun, take in the Island’s scenery as you walk over to the Sunset Beach Bar for cocktails. Although, keep an eye out for Brutus, the island’s 160-year-old tortoise. To add to the feeling of desert island life, you won’t be finding a menu at meal times, the chef prepares seasonal fresh food to your taste with a plentiful supply of fish caught offshore.
CHEVAL BLANC, SAINT BARTHS
With sugary sand leading down to the clear blue sea, Cheval Blanc St-Barth Isle de France has won many loyal fans since its recent makeover by LVMH. The luxury goods conglomerate added this jewel of a destination to its new travel portfolio, and has preserved everything that was already perfect, so it remains serene yet chic. But the lightest touch of additional luxury has been sprinkles over the venue, from pink fluffy towels, subtle French lines, supremely stylish bathrooms, along with a very good Guerlain spa.
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