Needless to say, we have all been through a lot in these last couple of years. Having spent a lot of time at home has not particularly led to rest and relaxation while there has been a lot of stress on a micro as well as on a macro scale. In this new year, we deserve to be able to really rest as well as to be able to travel again!
So, what better way to kick off 2022 than a wellness escape? Here are 5 places in Europe that are perfect destinations for a wellness trip:
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1. SPA RETREAT at Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Blue Lagoon in Iceland has become a popular site for wellness travel, where visitors can soak in the geothermal healing waters and really slip into self-care mode. Many people visit here to help with joint soreness and ailments, skin ailments, and overall stress to help the body and mind relax. There is also a hotel here that you can stay at for greater relaxation and multiple visits, as well as the shop where you can also purchase their signature BL+ skin products that are used in the spa.
Also notable is the convenience of getting to Blue Lagoon. Many times for wellness escapes, people want to reduce the amount of time that they are traveling so that they go home more rejuvenated and with less travel stress. Blue Lagoon is also located near Reykjavik which makes it very easy to get to for travelers coming in and out of that airport.
2. FOREST BATHING in South Tyrol, Italy
Set into the Dolomites, South Tyrol is more of a hidden gem that must be included in every northeast Italy roadtrip itinerary. With lakes that reflect like mirrors, spending some time immersed in nature here from the mountains down to the water is a beautiful and rejuvenating experience. With the added bonus of historic treasures like castles and vineyards, this is a site that lends to an overall incredible place to create memories and spend some time dedicated to relaxation, connection, nature, and self.
3. VITAMIN SEA in Alicante, Spain
Alicante is a beautiful place in Spain that is known for its beautiful sea and seaside. It is smaller than some of the other and more popular cities in Spain like Barcelona and Sevilla, but for a wellness escape, it has it all. From the sea to Castell de Santa Barbara, history, and even mountain views, you’re surrounded by nature here, incredible food, and a lifestyle that promotes really being present for all of life’s moments.
However you choose to spend your time here, a walk along Playa El Postiguet and then making your way over to the street parallel to the main streets of the city, Esplanada de Espana are two activities that will really ground you and remind you of where you are and why you are here.
4. SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS of Bulgaria
One of Bulgaria’s biggest treasures is the abundance of hot thermal springs. That makes the country very appealing to those looking for a budget wellness destination in Europe. The natural hot waters that flow from springs in Bulgaria are great for relaxation and have healing abilities.
With over 600 mineral water springs, Bulgaria is second in Europe, after Iceland, in natural mineral water and spring water resources, and quality of drinking water. It is also famous as the spa capital of the Balkans. The water temperatures are between 20°C to 101°C. Having said that, what’s better to do in Bulgaria in winter than soaking in those hot mineral springs? Especially, after a day of skiing or trekking – an absolute bliss!
Some of the main wellness destinations in Bulgaria include Velingrad, Devin, Hisarya, Sapareva Banya, Narechen, Bankya, Sandanski, Varshets, Pomorie, and many more.
5. VISIT the Szechenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest, Hungary
Spas and baths have flourished in Hungary since Roman times, using the famed medicinal thermal springs to promote holistic wellness. Budapest specifically is well-known for its geothermal springs and for the largest thermal water cave system.
Located in the heart of the city, Szechenyi Thermal Baths are one of Europe’s largest thermal bath complexes. It houses 3 large outdoor pools, 10 indoor pools, saunas, massage rooms, steam rooms, and even a beer bath.
Have you ever been to any of these three places? If so, what was your experience like?
