Wellness expert Dervla Louli Musgrave reveals which luxury resorts can help you unplug and finding your inner zen

01

AMANPULO, PHILIPPINES

If you really want to get away from it all, catch a seaplane to the island of Pamalican. Here, among the swaying palm trees, you will find Amanpulo, a tranquil hideaway that overlooks the ocean. Choose from beach or hillside casitas, then join an instructor from the PADI dive school to explore the reef or venture out to a floating bamboo pontoon where bartenders will be ready to serve you with your favourite cocktail. “Ever since the Hong Kong beach and pool restrictions came into effect, I’ve been craving being out on the water,” says Dervla. “Amanpulo is secluded and serene, but the variety of water activities ensures you can stay active and have fun daily.”

02

NIHI SUMBA, INDONESIA

Nihi Sumba has been named the best hotel in the world with good reason. From spa safaris to sunset horse rides, this is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. “My husband and I loved going for a swim in our private pool followed by yoga in the garden,” says Dervla. “Everything organically flows into one another on-site which makes it perfect for mindful movement too.” Take a stroll along the beach to breakfast every morning, then enjoy stand-up paddleboarding through mangroves, surfing with Tropicsurf in the bay or visit one of the spa bales dotted around the grounds.

03

COMO SHAMBHALA ESTATE, INDONESIA

Follow a small winding road through rice fields and leafy villages to reach the COMO Shambhala Estate in Ubud, Bali. Set on the site of one of Bali’s eight natural springs, this mineral-rich water is used in all of the spa treatments. If the vitality pool with underwater jet beds or the spa rooms overlooking the Ayung River don’t give you an instant boost, the nutritional dishes that the chefs rustle up in the restaurant will. “A three-night Ayurveda retreat at Como Shambhala Estate had a profound positive effect on my health. It’s the perfect private place to unplug surrounded by lush Balinese jungle and the wellness experts are brilliant,” says Dervla.

04

KAMALAYA, THAILAND

This little oasis on the isle of Koh Samui is sure to help you unwind. “Kamalaya is the best wellness retreat for destressing, detoxing, meditating and sleeping,” says Dervla. “It is one of the most zen places on earth where you can fully focus on optimising your health in a natural way that incorporates TCM principles.” The resort is known for its array of visiting practitioners, as well as its sprawling open air spa, where you can enjoy muscle-easing Thai massages and reflexology sessions.

05

FUSION MAIA, VIETNAM

If you are looking for some serious pampering, book into Fusion Maya near Hoi An. “This is the only all-inclusive luxury spa resort in Asia where you can enjoy multiple treatments each day,” says Dervla. Book into one of the bright and breezy villas that each come with a courtyard and a pool, then practice your downward dog at one of the daily yoga classes, relax in a mediation class or go for a stroll along the beach. If you are feeling more active you can go for a cycling tour of Hoi An.