What do we need to pack for a health retreat?
Comfortable active clothing and walking shoes.

What can we do to prepare for the stay, or after returning home?
If possible, try to lower consumption of animal protein prior to going on a health retreat. At The Farm we provide a sustainability program with recipes and hints for juicing upon returning home.

How can we make the most of our time on a health retreat, to get the maximum benefit?
Keep an open mind and be aware of your body and energy flow.

Is there any spare time for other activities or sightseeing?
Our guests have a rather full schedule, but a nature hike to the world’s smallest active volcano is a popular trip for our guests.

See our pick of health retreats in Southeast Asia and Australiasia here.

Southeast Asia

Fusion Maia Da Nang

Fusion Maia Da Nang
Da Nang, Vietnam
The buzz: This beachside luxe property is an all-spa inclusive resort, meaning you can go-to-town on treatments. You might be tempted to stay by the infinity pool or at the spa but the resort also acts as a wellness and yoga retreat, with programs for the body and mind.
The facilities: Each of the stunning pool, spa or beach-side villas has its own private garden and pool. As well as on-site activities, the resort has a shuttle service to historic hub Hoi An. Activities include Tai Chi on Marble Mountain.
The details: The seven-day Natural Living Program, incorporates uplifting activities, nourishing cuisine, and the philosophy of seven daily practices that includes meditation, yoga, and guided walks, with daily themes like eat well and feel free. The week starts at USD2,685 ($3,372), with a staggering 14 spa treatments.
Perfect for: Avid spa-goers who want to be guided through a week of wellness.
Truong Sa Street, Khue My Ward, NguHanh Son District, Da Nang City,  +84 51 1396-7999, www.maiadanang.fusion-resorts.com.
 

Samahita Retreat

Samahita Retreat
Koh Samui, Thailand
The buzz: In a secluded spot on Samui’s south coast this wellness center and yoga retreat is designed to help guests find balance in daily life. Wellness programs are on offer in a warm, friendly environment.
The facilities: The light-filled rooms are all eco-friendly and located close to the yoga center, restaurant, beachside swimming pool and a quiet stretch of coast. The restaurant serves up cuisine based on the principle of Sattra (pure and light).
The details: Tailored yoga retreats, as well as detox, weight and stress management programs are on offer. The resort’s seven-day yoga retreats start at €840 ($1,450) for shared accommodation, or €1,040 ($1,796) for a single room.
Perfect for: An intensive detox and yoga fix to regain balance in life.
55/20-24 Moo 4, T. Namuang, KohSamui, Suratthani, +66 7792-0090, www.samahitaretreat.com.

The Farm at San Benito

The Farm at San Benito
Lipa, The Philippines
The buzz: This holistic healing sanctuary is situated on 119 acres of lush jungle-covered land in the foothills of Mt. Malarayat, specializing in wellness retreats tailored to your nutritional, physical and mental wellbeing.
The facilities: Aside from the plush villas and suites, the property features south, waterfall and infinity pools, as well as a gym and spa, and specializes in ALIVE! (raw) cuisine focused on optimum nutrition.
The details: Packages range from the three-day Wellness Holiday with ALIVE! Cuisine, a personal trainer and two spa treatments for Php27,000 ($767), to the 21-night Life Changing Holiday, consisting of extensive therapies and treatments, for Php412,000 ($27,000).
Perfect for: Those in need of personalized rejuvenation of body and mind.
119 BrgyTipakan, Lipa,  +02 884-8073, www.thefarmatsanbenito.com.
 

Australasia

Gwinganna

Gwinganna
Queensland, Australia
The buzz: In the valleys backing onto Queensland’s Gold Coast, this retreat boasts scenic views, while aiming to nourish your body and mind leaving you refreshed and refocused.
The facilities: The property contains the Spa Sanctuary, an activity studio, tennis courts and two swimming pools. Organic, pure and clean food is served up for nutritional balance, while wellness seminars are held regularly.
The details: The two-night Gwingana weekend, including a massage, wellness seminar, organic cuisine and activities like yoga and bushwalking, costs from AUD1,095 ($1,230).
Perfect for: Nature lovers that want an education on better living as well as a health boost.
192 Syndicate Road, Tallebudgera Valley, Queensland, 4228. +617 5589-5000, www.gwinganna.com.

Split Apple Retreat

Split Apple Retreat
South Island, New Zealand
The buzz: This luxe hideout, built into the cliffs bordering Abel Tasman National Park, offers wellness programs, gourmet cuisine, meditation and massage, while making the most of the outdoors.
The facilities: For relaxation try the deck’s saltwater pool, spa or guided meditation. Those with more energy can take-up sea kayaking, horseriding and pilates. Guests can also learn to cook their own nourishing cuisine.
The details: The Japanese style rooms all have ocean views. Packages from three nights include National Park trips, picnics, meditation, classes, consultations and spa treatments. Rates start at NZD1,595 ($1,655) per room per night.
Perfect for: A retreat that is as indulgent as it is virtuous, in stunning natural surroundings.
195 Tokongawa Drive, RD2 Motueka, Abel Tasman, +64 3527-8377, www.splitapple.com.

We ask Michael Do Lonardo, manager of The Farm at San Benito, for some tips on how to make the most of a retreat.