Healing travel: explore the top destinations for wellness and rejuvenation

As we approach 2026, many of us are looking to rejuvenate our spirits and enhance our well-being through travel.

Healing destinations offer a unique opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life while immersing ourselves in environments that promote mental, physical, and emotional wellness.

From serene landscapes to culturally rich experiences, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for self-discovery and healing.

Here are some remarkable places to consider for your travel bucket list.

A spiritual oasis: discovering the heart of Balinese healing

Ubud is renowned for its deep spiritual culture and traditional healing practices, making it a top destination for those seeking wellness. Nestled in the heart of Bali, Ubud boasts lush greenery, rice terraces, and a tranquil atmosphere that encourages relaxation and self-reflection.

Visitors can engage in sacred purification rituals like Melukat, a traditional Balinese blessing that uses water and prayers to cleanse the body and soul.

The area is home to numerous traditional healers who employ ancient methods such as spiritual massage and herbal remedies to alleviate physical pain and emotional distress.

The integration of Balinese Hinduism into daily life creates an environment rich in temples, offerings, and ceremonies that foster a sense of harmony and balance. Ubud is also a hub for wellness tourism, featuring a plethora of spas and retreats dedicated to holistic healing.

Here, you can indulge in yoga, meditation, and plant-based cuisine that honours the natural surroundings, all while nurturing your overall well-being.

Where yoga meets adventure: the sacred journey of Rishikesh

Known as the "Yoga Capital of the World," Rishikesh in India is a spiritual haven located along the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

This city offers a unique blend of spirituality and adventure, making it an ideal destination for those seeking healing through both relaxation and physical activity. Rishikesh is dotted with ashrams and temples that provide a calming backdrop for yoga and meditation retreats.

Visitors can immerse themselves in ayurvedic treatments, which focus on holistic healing to rejuvenate the body and mind. The surrounding Himalayan landscape invites exploration, with opportunities for trekking and river rafting that connect you to nature and invigorate your spirit.

The combination of spiritual practices and adventure in Rishikesh creates a comprehensive healing experience that promotes mental clarity and emotional balance.

Nature’s spa: rejuvenation in the geothermal waters of Iceland

The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a world-famous geothermal spa that offers a unique healing experience through its mineral-rich waters.

Its geothermal seawater is renowned for its skin-beneficial properties, making it an excellent destination for those suffering from conditions like psoriasis and eczema. The soothing environment, combined with the stunning volcanic landscape, provides a therapeutic escape from daily stressors.

Visitors can enjoy the benefits of silica mud masks, which are available for free at the lagoon, promoting skin rejuvenation and relaxation. The Blue Lagoon is officially recognised by Iceland's National Health Service as a treatment centre for psoriasis, further solidifying its reputation as a healing destination.

To enhance your experience, consider booking an in-water massage or indulging in one of the spa's specialised treatments, all while soaking in the serene surroundings.

Timeless tranquillity: finding peace in Kyoto's cultural heritage

Kyoto, with its serene temples and tranquil gardens, is a city that embodies peace and well-being.

Known for its rich cultural heritage, Kyoto offers numerous "power spots" such as the Kamigamo Shrine, which is celebrated for its purification and healing energy. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is another must-visit location, where the towering bamboo stalks create a mesmerising atmosphere that inspires wonder and tranquillity.

Visitors can participate in traditional practices like the Japanese Tea Ceremony, which encourages mindfulness and connection with nature. The city also offers opportunities for traditional massages and Reiki, a form of spiritual healing that promotes relaxation and balance.

Spending time in Kyoto's botanical gardens and hiking trails allows you to breathe in fresh air and connect with the natural world, further enhancing your healing journey.

Energise your spirit: the holistic haven of Tulum

Tulum, Mexico, is a vibrant destination known for its holistic wellness community and stunning natural beauty. With its pristine beaches and ancient Mayan ruins, Tulum offers a unique environment for relaxation and self-discovery.

The area is often referred to as an "energy vortex", where natural energies are believed to amplify the body's electromagnetic field, aiding in the release of old traumas and stress.

In Tulum, you can engage in beachfront yoga classes, explore holistic spas, and participate in ancient rituals such as temazcal sweat lodges. These experiences promote spiritual and mental harmony, allowing you to reconnect with yourself.

The stunning cenotes and natural beauty of Tulum provide a restorative atmosphere that enhances the healing process, making it an ideal destination for those seeking rejuvenation.

A tapestry of traditions: healing through Morocco's natural wonders

Morocco is a land of rich traditions and stunning landscapes, making it an excellent destination for those seeking healing through natural therapies. The country is known for its ancient practices that utilise mineral-rich thermal waters and natural products like ghassoul clay and argan oil.

Visitors can experience traditional hammam rituals that cleanse both the body and mind, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. The tranquil beach towns and serene Atlas Mountains offer picturesque backdrops for mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation.

Many retreats in Morocco combine modern wellness techniques with traditional cultural practices, creating a holistic approach to healing. The country's diverse landscapes provide a peaceful environment for detachment from daily stressors, allowing for reflection and personal growth.

Float away your worries: the therapeutic magic of the Dead Sea

The Dead Sea in Jordan is a unique healing destination known for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic properties. Located at the lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea offers a warm, oxygen-rich atmosphere that is beneficial for those suffering from skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

The high salinity of the water allows visitors to float effortlessly, providing a calming experience that relieves pressure on muscles and joints. The mineral-rich mud found along the shores is used in spa treatments to exfoliate and detoxify the skin.

The therapeutic climate, combined with the buoyancy of the water, creates an ideal environment for relaxation and healing.

Visitors can enjoy various treatments that target muscle and joint pain, respiratory illnesses, and overall stress relief.

Pura vida: embracing wellness in Costa Rica's lush landscapes

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers and wellness enthusiasts alike.

With its diverse landscapes, including rainforests, hot springs, and pristine beaches, the country provides a peaceful environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Costa Rica's culture embraces a healthy lifestyle known as "pura vida", promoting well-being and mindfulness.

Visitors can participate in wellness retreats that offer yoga, meditation, and spa treatments, all while enjoying locally sourced, nutritious food.

The country's natural beauty and tranquil settings create a powerful sense of peace, allowing for self-discovery and emotional healing.

Activities like forest bathing and barefoot walks on the earth encourage a deeper connection with nature, enhancing the overall healing experience.