Top 10 Wellness Retreats in Europe for 2025: Nature-Focused Destinations for Relaxation & Mental Health
Table of contents
- The Azores, Portugal
- Lake Bled, Slovenia
- Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, Italy
- The Highlands, Scotland
- Alpujarras, Spain (Andalusia)
- Lapland, Finland
- Pelion Peninsula, Greece
- The Julian Alps, Slovenia
- The Black Forest, Germany
- The Lofoten Islands, Norway
- What Makes a Place Ideal for a Wellness Retreat?
- How to Plan Your Wellness-Focused Getaway in 2025

Discover the 10 best wellness destinations in Europe in 2025 - from mountain resorts to coastal reserves. Unplug, recharge and reconnect with nature in the continent's most tranquil corners. Plus find out the best time to travel and get tips for the perfect holiday
In a world recovering from overstimulation, burnout, and endless screens, 2025 is the year of intentional travel. More people are swapping itineraries for introspection, choosing wild nature over busy cities to restore their mental health. These 10 European destinations offer space to breathe, reconnect with yourself, and experience the healing power of nature.
Choose a reliable health insurance policy from Visit World to travel abroad safely.
The Azores, Portugal
These volcanic islands in the mid-Atlantic offer lush green landscapes, hot springs, whale watching, and peace from the modern world.
- Tip: Visit between May and October for hiking-friendly weather. Consider spending time in Furnas Valley, known for its geothermal waters and botanical gardens.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
This fairytale lake with its alpine backdrop is perfect for digital detox and mindful mornings. Rowing to the island church is almost meditative.
- Tip: Try sunrise yoga by the lake, and explore nearby Vintgar Gorge for mindful walking in nature.
Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia, Italy
Rolling hills, vineyards, and cypress trees create a calming landscape ideal for reflection, art, and mindful eating.
- Tip: Base yourself in a local agriturismo. Spring (April–June) is the best time for blooming landscapes and fewer tourists.
The Highlands, Scotland
Wild mountains, serene lochs, and open skies. The Highlands are perfect for slow travel in Europe and time away from devices.
- Tip: Take a guided hiking or foraging tour and embrace the local philosophy of “coorie” — the Scottish version of hygge.
Alpujarras, Spain (Andalusia)
Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, these whitewashed villages offer sunny skies, mountain silence, and soulful simplicity.
- Tip: Best for spring and autumn escapes. Don’t miss the local herbal infusions and natural footpaths for grounding forest walks.
Lapland, Finland
For true winter wellness. Silence, snow, saunas, and the northern lights provide a meditative, almost surreal environment.
- Tip: Travel in February–March for daylight, but snow-covered landscapes. Try a traditional smoke sauna and ice plunge for mental clarity.
Pelion Peninsula, Greece
Underrated, uncrowded, and green. This coastal-mountain region is ideal for slow days and relaxation travel.
- Tip: Hike the ancient “kalderimi” stone paths between villages, then relax on the quiet beaches of Fakistra or Damouchari.
The Julian Alps, Slovenia
Less crowded than the Swiss or French Alps, this region is ideal for those seeking nature-based travel in a peaceful alpine setting.
- Tip: Go in late summer to avoid snow but still enjoy cool mountain air and crystal-clear lakes like Bohinj.
The Black Forest, Germany
Dense woods, thermal baths, and a rich tradition of forest healing (Waldtherapie). It’s a true sanctuary for mental health travel.
- Tip: Try forest bathing or visit the mineral spas in Baden-Baden. Great for all seasons, especially spring and early autumn.
The Lofoten Islands, Norway
These remote Arctic islands offer unmatched quiet, fjords, and midnight sun — perfect for deep rest and perspective shifts.
- Tip: Travel in summer for long, bright days. Or visit in winter if you’re chasing solitude and the aurora borealis.
What Makes a Place Ideal for a Wellness Retreat?
- Natural beauty – Mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines provide instant calm and grounding.
- Isolation and silence – A break from overstimulation and urban noise.
- Cultural connection – Many European regions blend wellness with centuries-old healing traditions.
- Slow living – Opportunities to walk, reflect, and breathe without hurry.
How to Plan Your Wellness-Focused Getaway in 2025
To get the most out of your rest and recovery, follow these tips:
1. Travel light – Minimalism reduces stress.
2. Stay longer – Give your nervous system time to slow down.
3. Disconnect – Choose places with limited signal to fully unwind.
4. Let go of the agenda – Embrace being over doing.
5. Support the local – Eat locally, move gently, leave no trace.
Wellness travel in 2025 isn’t about luxury – it’s about intention. These destinations invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what matters most: nature, presence, and your own rhythm. Wherever you go, choose local, tread lightly, and travel with the land – not just through it.
When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during your trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.
Buy a reliable travel insurance policy from trusted insurance agents on the Visit World portal!
Reminder! When the summer heat becomes too much, the best option is to escape to cool places where you can enjoy fresh air and breathtaking natural landscapes. We have already told you which cool destinations are worth visiting in 2025.
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