mahabis retreats // up in the clouds

mountain resorts // mahabis journalphoto: igor trepeshchenok

 

As summer is drawing to a close, we're looking beyond the beach for our next relaxing getaway. Instead, we’re embracing the colder weather and plotting long weekends unwinding above the clouds in mountain-top resorts. Wondering where to head for high altitude downtime? Read on to discover our edit of the best elevated sanctuaries.

 

There’s something about relocating yourself to the slopes of a mountain that instantly evokes relaxation. Being above the clouds, looking down and admiring the views, you can’t help but feel tranquil. There’s little wonder that there seems to be an influx of spas and relaxing resorts opening atop mountains. Ideal for an autumn retreat, the vistas perfectly complement the luxurious facilities and range of treatments on offer, allowing guests to indulge in a little ‘me’ time where it’s perfectly acceptable to have your head in the clouds.

 

mountain resorts // mahabis journalphoto: via unsplash

 

Kasbah Tamadot, Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Ideal for those who wish to explore the Atlas Mountains in comfort and luxury, Kasbah Tamadot is nestled in the foothills of the mountain range with its iconic infinity pool providing the perfect spot to float and admire the views. Decorated in traditional Moroccan style, the hotel is filled with colourful textiles and authentic artefacts, providing accommodation in both hotel rooms and Berber tents. The luxurious tent suites are perched up on the hillside, offering dramatic views of the valley below from the Jacuzzi tubs on their private terraces. Divide your time between exploring the mountains and indulging in an array of traditional spa treatments and relaxing on the rooftop bar.

 

kasbah tamadot // mahabis journal

  

Wildflower Hall, Shimla, India

When you envision visiting the Himalayas, soaking in an outdoor infinity whirlpool and enjoying traditional Ayurvedic therapies may come as a surprise. Wildflower Hall offers unparalleled luxury in the midst of the mountains, fusing antique interiors with contemporary luxuries and holistic spa treatments. Those more adventurous can venture into the mountains for a guided trek, or guests can feel free to admire the views from the comfort of their own suite. Alongside the main bar and restaurant, a private candlelit dinner can be enjoyed at the hillside gazebo or a bespoke picnic can be prepared to take to the hotel’s private picnic spot.

 

wildflower hall // mahabis journal

 

Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie, Washington, USA

Perched atop Snoqualmie Falls, there could not be a more romantic location for the Salish Lodge & Spa. Devotees of Twin Peaks will delight in spending the night at the ‘real’ Great Northern Hotel, whilst others will revel in the picturesque panoramas. For a relaxing way to start the day Vinyasa Flow and yoga classes take place in the Hidden Terrace, offering dramatic views out over the waterfalls. After lunch, spend time exploring the local area by bike or kayak, before returning to the lodge to spend an afternoon pampering yourself in the award-winning spa. Soak in therapeutic pools, enjoy a soothing massage and indulge in a treatment using the spa’s own honey.

 

salish lodge and spa // mahabis journal

 

Salto Chico Lodge, Patagonia, Chile

Located in one of the most spectacular mountain regions of the world, Salto Chico Lodge is ideally located for exploring the surrounding Torres del Paine National Park. Offering a respite of luxury at the southernmost tip of the world, the hotel sits on the banks of a serene lake surrounded by boardwalks for guests to wander and admire the rugged snow-capped mountains that frame the landscape. There are over fifty different guided hikes and horseback rides on offer for guests to explore Patagonia during their stay with an extensive programme of essential oil massages available at the spa to soothe aching limbs upon return. In the evenings, soak in a private outdoor Jacuzzi tub by the shore of the lake, sipping Chilean wine and basking in the views.

 

salto chico lodge // mahabis journal

 

Vigilius Mountain Resort, South Tyrol, Italy

Only accessible by cable car, the Vigilius Mountain Resort lies high above the Tyrolean town of Lana. Supplied by a natural mountain spring, all of the water in the hotel is refreshingly pure, from the water that you drink to the water that you bathe in. This natural theme is emphasised in the treatments offered in the spa, including mountain pine peels and green tea exfoliating massages. In between treatments, guests can relax in the indoor and outdoor pools, enjoy a gentle stroll around the surrounding mountainside, or simply sit and admire the views with a glass of wine from the wine cellar. In the evenings, retreat to the glass-fronted restaurant, where you can dine on fine cuisine whilst watching the sun softly set over the Dolomites.

 

mahabis retreats // up in the clouds