Where to Retreat When Everything Feels Right

A Guide to Wellness Destinations in Europe, for those who are already in good health

At Serenity Ways, we help people choose the right place to go to pursue their wellness journey - a retreat, a cure, a program, a healthy holiday - whatever name they give it.

For 30% of our clients, everything is all right : good health, stable mind, balanced emotions. Like all our clients, we help them to find the right wellness place, and it looks complicated: indeed, as at first sight, many of the longevity retreats and wellness clinics seem to be meant to fix a broken health or an unbalanced mind. And yet, there is a perfect retreat for each and everyone of us, including those in perfect condition.

As we've been asked this question often by Serenity Ways clients, here are our top recommendations for where to retreat - in Europe - when their body and their mind are in perfect health. 

But wait ...

If you feel that good, what is your goal in a retreat?

The common denominators of our clients who "feel good" is their objective to make this state last, and to anticipate their future health and wellness:

• Seeking a moment of relaxation, clarity, with the objective of optimizing their performance,
• Being open to a deeper transformation in their wellness and longevity journey, continuing to learn and further improve their life-style,
• Taking time for an update on their in-depth check-ups, in order to know if any risk arises before symptoms may appear.

Why seven days is ideal for retreats

Our clients who "feel good" usually taking a full week for themselves, and it is really the ideal duration. Seven nights on-site is usually enough to see visible results and, more importantly, to integrate changes into their everyday life. A retreat isn’t just about the time spent in the program—it’s about how the experience continues to resonate long after you’ve left.

You may think - I have already integrated all I need in my everyday life, and I feel good, so I can choose a profound program, but instead of 7 days, in just 4 or 5 days. Well, it depends!

What happens during short wellness retreats

If your metabolism is relatively clean, then your body will react strongly to the signals sent by the treatments of your program - a stronger reaction than if your metabolism was hindered by years of unhealthy life-style. Most longevity programs include a strong detox foundation. So if your body reacts strongly, it means it enters in a deep detox mode, usually between day 3 and day 5.

And in fact, the cleaner your body, the deeper it can detox ! Believe me, this does not feel good when it happens (head aches, emotions, insomnia ...), although it is really useful: your body needs it, it is the way it cleanses everything inside out. It will eventually return to much higher state of energy, in day 6 and 7: but it also means you really needed those days 6 and day 7 to get back on your feet, otherwise you leave the retreat when you feel quite bad.

If you are a "feel good" client looking for a short wellness retreat, it is better to choose a program focused on sport, mind or sleep rather than one focusing on longevity or immunity. Indeed most short programs focused on sport, mind or sleep do not have the detox dimension, and you won't experience this gap between days 3 and 5.

Where to go? Wellness Clinics vs. Luxury Spa Hotels

There’s a fundamental difference between a clinic fully dedicated to health and longevity, where every guest is immersed in a life-changing program, and a luxury hotel with a fabulous spa, where some guests are here for wellness, and others "only" for holiday - or even work. Both have their merits.

Perhaps surprisingly, dedicated clinics and pure-players is what resonates the most with the majority of our clients who feel good, as they look for a yearly "reset" - an opportunity to detox their body and for deep work on their mind and emotions.

We see exceptions, too: clients who feel good and who prefer a spa hotel. They usually choose their destination to please relatives they travel with: a partner who is not (yet) into longevity as much as they are. Fortunately there are many destinations which marry in-depth programs with indulgence.

Wellness clients who travel on their own or whose partner is also into wellness usually prefer clinics and wellness pure-player hotels because there is less temptation to "derail" from the healthy program.

Here are the wellness destinations that our clients who "feel good" prefer when they look for a retreat. Each has its own personality and purpose, and feel free to contact me to discuss your own preferences.

Fully Wellness-Focused Destinations

These retreats are designed for guests who want to immerse themselves in transformative programs.

Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland

A world-class destination for longevity, Chenot Palace is unparalleled in its precision and results-driven approach. Nestled by Lake Lucerne, this haven offers a signature detox and regeneration program based on decades of research. It’s an extraordinary experience for those ready to recalibrate their physical and mental health.

Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy

If movement and vitality are your goals, Palazzo Fiuggi blends state-of-the-art medical wellness with invigorating fitness programs. Their Hiking for Longevity program is a must-try: scenic hikes, tailored workouts and healthy gastronomy, this retreat leaves you feeling stronger, lighter, and energized.

SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain

Renowned for its holistic approach to well-being, SHA is a must-visit. Whether your focus is detox, weight loss, or aging gracefully, their expert team and Mediterranean setting make for an unforgettable experience.

Villa Eden, Italy

Located in Merano, Villa Eden offers a luxurious yet approachable take on longevity. Their programs focus on helping you achieve your goals at your own pace, combining medical expertise with indulgent wellness treatments - and a delightful experience too!

Clinique Nescens, Switzerland

Perfect for a comprehensive reset, Clinique Nescens excels in full-body check-ups and bespoke longevity programs. It’s a place to reflect, recharge, and realign your life’s priorities in the serene Swiss Alps.

Mayrlife, Austria

For those seeking a thorough cleansing, Mayrlife’s renowned approach to detox is second to none. Their signature Mayr Cure, set in the Austrian mountains, is a transformative journey for both body and soul.

Amazing leisure + wellness hotels

For those who look for life-changing wellness and longevity, in a hotel that is also a great holiday destination, the following destinations blend leisure with longevity-focused options.

Lily of the Valley, France

Located on the French Riviera, this charming retreat combines understated luxury with exceptional wellness programs. Whether you’re here to focus on fitness or simply unwind by the sea, every moment feels restorative.

Lefay Resort & Spa, Lake Garda, Italy

Perched above Lake Garda, Lefay is a dream suspended between clouds and water. Their wellness offerings are grounded in traditional Chinese medicine, making it a harmonious escape for those seeking balance. And it offers a very family-friendly experience!

Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, Italy

For mountain lovers, Lefay Dolomiti delivers the perfect blend of alpine luxury and cutting-edge wellness programs. Think sauna overlooking snow-capped peaks and treatments inspired by nature’s rhythms. All year round, the experience mixes adventure and profound wellness.

L’Albereta and its Espace Chenot, Italy

A quintessential Italian retreat, L’Albereta offers a Dolce Vita-style escape infused with wellness. It’s the perfect spot to rejuvenate while indulging in life’s simple pleasures.

Choosing the Right Retreat for You

Each of these destinations offers something unique, but the best choice always depends on your needs and desires. Are you looking for a medical-grade reset, a detox, or simply a place to relax and rejuvenate? If you feel you need someone to advise you, you can contact us.

Remember, a retreat isn’t just an indulgence: it’s an investment in your well-being and your longevity in good health. When everything feels right in life, taking time for yourself can only deepen that state of harmony and help you carry it forward.