Who knows where to tone up and Zen out better than the celebrities whose jobs require it of them? Follow their ultra-chic lead and book a stay at one of these retreats.
Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
San Diego, CA
Because of its proximity to Hollywood, stars like Natalie Portman, Julia Roberts and Oprah Winfrey jet off to this San Diego gem when they need a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. While it’s close to home, the luxurious retreat channels Europe with its resemblance to a French village. Whether it’s adventure or yoga that grounds you, your feet will land firmly on the floor after a stay at the Cal-a-Vie.
Cal-a-Vie Health Spa
Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat
Queensland, Australia
Hugh Jackman spent a lot of time at this Australian lifestyle retreat before deciding he had to have it. Now co-owner of Gwinganna, Jackman frequents the property along with Nicole Kidman. The instructors at his ecotourism-certified retreat teach guests “resilience in the modern world” through lessons in movement, organic living and relaxation. One of their more unique activities is Dreamtime, where guests are “encouraged to stop or choose something slower to help the adrenal glands restore” every afternoon.
We Care Spa
Coachella Valley, CA
As the leader in juice fasting and colonics, the We Care Spa promises that you need only eight days at their holistic resort to see a major change. Actors like Matthew McConaughey and Ben Affleck have relied on this detoxification spa in the desert to rebalance physically and mentally via juice and movement programs.
Miraval Spa
Tucson, AZ
You may recall the episode of Oprah when Oprah Winfrey and gal-pal Gayle King took 60 hardworking women on a girls’ getaway to Miraval Spa in Arizona to find “mind, body and soul balance.” One of Oprah’s favorite escapes, Miraval is a wellness luxury spa and resort that offers “signature self-discovery and growth activities that make the heart pump and the head re-think.” While you will find a lot of those corny trust-fall-type activities, you can also find serenity via breathwalking, cardio drumming or meditation classes—all Oprah-approved.
The Ashram
Calabasas, CA
What seems like millions of miles away from crazed L.A. is actually only a short drive from downtown. The Ashram, tucked into the Santa Monica Mountains, is a serene escape for Hollywood’s elite. It’s no wonder that celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow love this place. Guests will spend their days hiking the natural unspoiled mountains and participating in fitness classes. Nights are filled with educational programs while enjoying a healthy, cleansing vegetarian diet. And it’s not only Gwyn who thrives in this kind of environment; you might also find yourself sweating it out with the likes of Renée Zellweger or Colin Farrell.
The Ashram
SHA Wellness Clinic
Alicante, Spain
For those who seek relaxation and a lush landscape, you might consider booking a stay at the sleek and sophisticated SHA Wellness Clinic. The medical hotel that attracts stars like Madonna and Demi Moore is located in Alicante, Spain with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. The retreat focuses on natural therapies and healthy eating and includes anti-tobacco, detoxing and sleep recovery programs.
SHA Wellness Clinic
Chiva Som
Hua Hin, Thailand
An official Healing Hotel of the World, Chiva Som—which means Haven of Life—is located within 7 acres of tropical gardens in Thailand, making it the perfect healthy hideaway for famously private folks like Victoria and David Beckham. Guests are treated to delicious meals using organically grown fruits and vegetables picked right from the health resort’s garden.
Golden Door
Escondido, CA
The focus of this Japanese-inspired California resort is empowerment. Golden Door guests achieve greater inner and outer strength through fitness classes, spa treatments and outdoor activities in their 350 acres of greenery. Anyone who is attending Golden Door’s weeklong program receives daily in-room massages, five skincare or body treatments and a manicure/pedicure. It’s no surprise that celebrities like Barbra Streisand, Laura Dern and Martha Stewart can’t stay away.
