mahabis travel // relaxing winter retreats

Escape from the city this winter and retreat to a secluded location to rest and relax.

We have pulled together a few resorts from around the world that are idea for an indulgent week or two of winter downtime. Whether you prefer sand or snow, all that matters is that you leave your technology behind and enjoy the fresh air, unwind with calming spa treatments and slow things down.

Kaklauttanen Arctic Resort, Finnish Lapland

Located in the far north of Finland, Kaklauttanen is famed for its glass igloos that make it one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights.

Each private igloo contains a double bed beneath the domed glass ceiling, allowing you to watch the skies from the comfort of your own bed. If you prefer accommodation with more home comforts, opt for one of the resort’s Kelo-Glass igloos that combine the warmth, comfort and facilities of a log cabin with an attached glass domed bedroom.

Daylight is limited here during the winter months, but during the perpetual twilight you can indulge in activities including husky sled rides or reindeer safaris.

 photo: kaklauttanen

Aurelio Lech, Austria

This small yet superbly stylish Austrian hotel is perfect for those who seek privacy and wish to get away from the more touristy resorts in the Alps.

The impressive slick and contemporary spa features a diverse menu of both classic and more unusual treatment, with something to suit everyone's preference. There are indoor bathing pools, multi-sensory showers, ice pools, meditation rooms, herbal steam rooms and a range of massage treatments to help you unwind. In the evenings, you can dine in the exquisite restaurant, then sit around the open fire in the Licca Lounge, sipping schnapps.

 photo: aurelio leche

Merano Thermal Baths, Italian Dolomites

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to this brand new spa in the Italian Dolomites.

The modern steel and glass building is a striking sight amongst the natural landscape of the mountains, offering stunning views whether you choose to swim in the indoor or outdoor pools. The sulphur-infused swimming pools, saunas and steam rooms are all heated by natural thermal waters, and all of the therapies on offer have a natural element to them.

Whilst a hotel is currently being developed, there are several four and five star hotels in the vicinity where you can rest your head after a relaxing day soaking and steaming.

 photo: merano thermal baths

The Green Leaf Niseko Village, Japan

Japan may not be the first place that you think of for a winter getaway, but the northern island of Hokkaido offers a full season of snow.

The recently refurbished Green Leaf Niseko resort is our choice of accomodation due to its stunning spa and traditional Onsen, meaning that you have the choice of either an invigorating day on the slopes or spending time relaxing and being pampered. The natural hot springs heat an outdoor rock pool, where you can bathe surrounded by the snow-covered mountains and pine trees.

Alongside the Green Leaf spa, where you can enjoy a range of holistic treatments and relaxing massages, the Wakka spa at the nearby Hilton hotel offers a specially designed room for couples and has been voted one of the top ten spas in Japan. 

 photo: green leaf

Paradis Plage Yoga Retreat, Morocco

Although it is located upon a beach renowned for its surfing, Paradis Plage is the perfect relaxing retreat for those seeking winter sun. The hotel and spa complex focuses predominantly on sustainability and on its excellent yoga programme, proving to be the ideal destination for those who wish to recharge their mind, body and soul.

Designed with tranquillity in mind, guests can choose to stay in a luxury suite, a private bungalow or an exquisite villa, all with direct access to the private beach. Package options include serene yoga classes in a sea-front pavilion, massage treatments, and even surfing lessons if you’re feeling more adventurous.

 photo: paradis plage

Copperhill Mountain Lodge, Sweden

Rather than heading to a busy Alpine resort for a relaxing ski retreat, head to the peaks of Mount Förberget in Are, Sweden.

The contemporary mountain lodge features a stylish interior that combines traditional wooden elements with a thoroughly modern aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows look out over the snow-covered landscape and grey stone fireplaces perfectly contrast with striking oak beamed vaulted ceilings to create a calming environment.

The main draw here is the exquisite spa, which takes inspiration from the local Sami people, only using natural ingredients and practicing traditional treatments. Soak in indoor and outdoors hot springs, massage your aching muscles after a ski session, or book into the private spa for tailored treatments including sauna sessions, solo soaks in the mineral baths and nourishing mud wraps.

 photo: copperhill mountain lodge

Amilla Fushi Resort, The Maldives

Translating as ‘my island home’, Amilla Fushi is the perfect getaway if you dream of a remote island location yet want stylish and contemporary accommodation.

Located upon one of the 26 natural atolls in the Indian Ocean, the private island resort offers a choice of slick and modern villas that either nestle amongst the trees, hover over the water on stilts or line the white sand beaches. Enjoy fine dining with a focus on freshly caught fish, snorkel in the crystal clear waters, indulge in a variety of treatments in the spa, and ensure that you take a guided night dive to admire the bioluminescent plankton.

 photo: amilla fushi resort

To share this article, simply click on this ready-to-go tweet.