The Ultimate Escapes: Transformative Retreats for 2025

The Ultimate Escapes: Transformative Retreats for 2025
Edited by Travel Weekly


As the pace of modern life accelerates, the concept of retreating has taken on a whole new significance. No longer just about relaxation, today’s retreats are designed to inspire transformation, reconnect us with nature, and offer a sanctuary for personal and collective growth.

In 2025, the world’s most sought-after destinations are elevating the retreat experience with offerings that combine luxurious settings, bespoke wellness journeys, and a deep sense of place. From private islands in Southeast Asia to cliffside havens in Greece, these eight standout retreats promise experiences that are as rare as they are meaningful – for small groups and larger, corporate groups alike.

Elements of Byron, Australia

Where Coastal Beauty Meets Wellness Nestled along Byron Bay’s stunning shoreline, Elements of Byron is a celebration of nature and rejuvenation. With sunrise yoga sessions overlooking the ocean, indulgent treatments at the Osprey Spa, and curated experiences that connect guests to the local environment, retreats here offer a harmonious blend of relaxation and inspiration.

Retreat Highlights: Tailored wellness programs, beachfront access, seasonal dining at Azure Bar and Grill, and a dedicated events team to help you curate your dream retreat, whether it’s an intimate creative workshop or a large-scale corporate event.

Gundari Resort, Greece

A Retreat Rooted in Timeless Greek Wisdom Perched on the cliffs of Folegandros, Gundari Resort invites guests to retreat into a world of ancient healing and modern luxury. With private infinity pools, Mediterranean-inspired treatments, and panoramic Aegean views, this sanctuary offers serenity and renewal.

Retreat Highlights: Bespoke wellness experiences, authentic cultural connections, and unspoiled landscapes.

Song Saa Private Island, Cambodia

Nature, Nurture, and Sustainable Luxury Set in the pristine Koh Rong Archipelago, Song Saa Private Island is an eco-luxury haven where every moment is designed to nurture the soul. Guests can explore conservation efforts led by the Song Saa Foundation, meditate by lantern-lit beaches, or unwind in overwater villas surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Perfect for wellness retreats.

Retreat Highlights: Eco-conscious luxury, private sanctuaries, and opportunities to reconnect with nature.

The Rox Hobart, Tasmania

Urban Sophistication Meets Soulful Retreat Located in the heart of Hobart’s creative district, The Rox offers a unique take on retreats. Guests can explore Tasmania’s thriving arts and culinary scenes while enjoying luxury apartments that serve as the perfect base for both city adventures and moments of quiet reflection.

Retreat Highlights: Rooftop garden views, curated local experiences, and proximity to Tasmania’s natural wonders set the scene for inimitable intimate retreats.

The Mysa Motel, Australia

Retro Charm with an Eco-Conscious Heart In the heart of burgeoning Palm Beach on the Gold Coast, The Mysa Motel offers a refreshing retreat experience with its boutique design and sustainability ethos. Guests can relax by the retro-style pool, unwind in beautifully upcycled rooms, and embrace a slower pace of life.

Retreat Highlights: Boutique vibes, lo-fi eco-luxe design, and laid-back coastal cool. Full charters available.

Zannier Bãi San Hô, Vietnam

Untouched Vietnam Awaits Nestled where jungle meets sea, Zannier Bãi San Hô immerses guests in the untouched beauty of Vietnam. With luxurious villas, locally inspired dining, and opportunities to explore fishing villages, this resort is a retreat in itself and creates meaningful connections with the local land and culture.

Retreat Highlights: Secluded luxury, cultural immersion, and harmony with nature.Ready to Retreat?

 

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

luxury travel

Latest News

  • Famil

TravHost launches expert hosting service to transform industry famils

TravHost offers a pioneering service bridging the gap between media professionals, travel agents and tourism organisations, addressing the demand for exceptional famil hosts. Founded by seasoned travel media professionals Fiona Harper and Carolyne Jasinski, TravHost is poised to revolutionise the way tourism organisations and travel companies approach famils. With decades of experience in tourism and […]

  • Tour Operators
  • Travel Agents

Book big and bag a spot of the TTC Tour Brand’s Top Achievers’ Famil

TTC Tour Brands’ Top Achievers Famil incentive is back, rewarding top-selling agents with the chance to embark on an unforgettable trip to a destination that remains a secret – for now. Agents who have sold any Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver and Contiki, from 1 December 2024 to 14 March 2025, go into the […]

  • Business Travel
  • Conferences

New Zealand International Convention Centre to open in February 2026

The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has announced it is opening its doors to New Zealand and world conferences and events in February 2026. The long-awaited NZICC is set to transform New Zealand’s conference and events industry, boosting visitation and the wider economy with its world-class facilities. Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, […]

  • Cruise
  • Events

AmaWaterways invites AU/NZ travel trade to An Evening with AmaWaterways events

AmaWaterways has announced the dates of its upcoming An Evening with AmaWaterways events for travel advisors, just over a year after it entered the Australian and New Zealand markets. Dedicated to travel advisors, the events will be held in six cities and will be hosted by AmaWaterways’ regional sales managers, plus feature a presentation from […]

  • Destinations
  • Tourism

Mooloolaba cruise season boosts Sunshine Coast tourism and trade

Mooloolaba is set to welcome a series of cruise ships through February and March 2025, significantly boosting local businesses and tourism to the Sunshine Coast. Their arrival is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere and provide a substantial economic uplift to the region. Viking Sky kicks off the season on Sunday 8 February, with 930 […]

  • Food & Beverage

Little Pete Brewing opens first of its kind open-air bar

Little Pete Brewing has opened a new open-air bar at 543 Step Rd, Langhorne Creek, a must-visit South Australia destination for a drink with a view. The first-of-its-kind open-air bar sits on 8ha, surrounded by vineyards and paddocks, with the Bremer River flowing nearby and framed by majestic ancient river red gums. “We always felt […]

  • Events

CENTREPIECE is set to make a splash at AIME 2025

CENTREPIECE is set to make a splash at AIME 2025 with a one-of-a-kind activation that showcases their world-class event capabilities to inspire event planners and decision-makers. CENTREPIECE is located in the heart of Melbourne & Olympic Parks, Victoria’s epicentre for live sports and entertainment and home to world-renowned venues including Rod Laver Arena, AAMI Park, […]

  • Destinations
  • Tourism

NYC Tourism + Conventions announces two exciting new events

NYC Tourism + Conventions has announced ‘NYC Off-Broadway Week 2025’ and ‘Value Family Activities’ events lined up for this year. NYC Off-Broadway Week 2025 2-for-1 ticket sales for this event have begun with this season’s program featuring 29 Off-Broadway performances, including 18 new participants. The twice-yearly program runs from 17 February through 9 March with […]

  • Events
  • Tourism

Jeju wins bid to host 2028 Asia-Pacific Microscopy Conference

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has successfully secured the 14th Asia-Pacific Microscopy Conference (APMC14) for Jeju in November 2028. This was achieved in partnership with the Korean Society of Microscopy, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Jeju Convention Bureau, and Jeju International Convention Center. Korea was selected as the final host after strong competition at the 13th […]

  • Cruise
  • Food & Beverage

Oceania Cruises sets new standard for onboard dining: one chef for every 10 guests

Oceania Cruises, renowned for The Finest Cuisine at Sea, has set a new standard for onboard dining with an exquisite new menu evolution in The Grand Dining Room. Launching on its newest 1,200-guest ship, Allura, in July 2025, the reimagined menus introduce over 270 brand-new recipes, from curated Signature Eggs Benedict breakfast selection to a chic French […]