No longer relegated to far-flung tropical islands or remote forests, some of the world’s best wellness centres can now be found in its busiest cities
The tables have turned. Rather than travelling great distances to visit out-of-the-way health farms, a growing number of health enthusiasts are flocking to luxury wellness centres that are opening in major metropolitan hubs around the world.
Shifting the perception that achieving wellbeing involves prolonged solitude at rural retreats, these new holistic destinations are spaces that allow busy urbanites to find sanctuary in their daily lives.
Willow Urban Retreat, Melbourne, Australia
Housed in a beautiful Victorian building in Melbourne’s affluent Armadale neighbourhood, Willow Urban Retreat offers a 360° approach to wellness that combines the best of Eastern and Western healing modalities.
From Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation and sound baths, to more medical approaches to wellness such as remedial massage, osteopathy treatments and naturopathy, Willow promotes a well-rounded healing experience that will bring you back to optimum health in mind, body and spirit.
The space itself is peaceful and inviting, as light tones, earthy textures and minimalist design offer an instant breath of fresh air. Speaking of which—the centre prides itself on its air purifying system, which is said to boost clarity and calm.
Willow also houses a café that serves nourishing, satisfying dishes. The menu is a collaboration between the centre’s naturopath and celebrated local chef Nick Cree, and features plenty of fresh, local produce, including goodies from the centre’s own farm located on the Mornington Peninsula.
Find out more at willowurbanretreat.com.au
See also: Sangha Retreat By Octave Is The Wellness Centre Of The Future