Sometimes, the best holidays are ones where you don't have to do anything. When the hectic pace of modern life becomes a little too much, it can be tempting to crave a holiday where you can just unwind, recharge and restore your energy levels. From secluded tropical islands to tranquil lakeside retreats and ancient temple gardens, there are countless relaxing holiday destinations where switching off comes naturally.
Our Luxury Travel Specialists have selected five of the most relaxing holiday destinations for those seeking a slower pace, beautiful surroundings and plenty of opportunities to focus on mind, body and soul. Whether you dream of secluded beaches, indulgent spa treatments or simply waking up somewhere spectacular, these are some of the best places to travel for relaxation around the world.
1. The Maldives
Few relaxing holiday locations can rival the serenity of the Maldives. Made up of hundreds of idyllic islands surrounded by crystal-clear Indian Ocean waters, this tropical paradise provides the perfect setting for escaping the stresses of modern life.
The Maldives is particularly appealing for those who want to enjoy complete privacy. Here you can wake up in an overwater bungalow, step outside and into your own private pool and spend the day looking out across endless turquoise waters. There is little need to follow a schedule here, with days naturally falling into a soothing rhythm of swimming, sunbathing, dining and simply enjoying the spectacular surroundings.
For an especially restorative escape, Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru combines luxurious accommodation with a class leading wellness offering. Guests can enjoy access to a peaceful private beach, take to the water on a catamaran cruise or retreat to the resort's spa and wellness facilities. With experiences designed to soothe the mind, body and soul, it is an outstanding resort for anyone searching for the best relaxing holiday locations.
2. St Lucia
St Lucia is one of the most relaxing holiday destinations for those who want to embrace a slower pace of life. Lush tropical landscapes, swaying palms, beautiful beaches and the gentle rhythm of Caribbean living create an environment where it becomes remarkably easy to leave your worries at the airport.
Rather than filling every day with activities, holiday makers can simply enjoy the pleasure of doing less. Spend a morning surrounded by tropical scenery, linger over a leisurely lunch or watch the sun disappear over the Caribbean before enjoying a relaxed evening together.
Calabash Cove Resort & Spa is an ideal adults-only retreat for a peaceful St Lucian getaway. Set beside a private beach, the resort provides plenty of opportunities for uninterrupted relaxation, while its spa offers couples treatments designed to encourage complete rejuvenation. Holiday makers can also lose themselves in the peaceful library or wander through the tropical gardens, creating plenty of opportunities to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
3. Lake Garda - Italy
For a relaxing holiday location which combines natural beauty, culture and wellness, look no further than Lake Garda. Northern Italy's largest lake is surrounded by mountains, charming villages and vineyards, creating an exceptionally relaxing and beautiful backdrop for a peaceful escape.
Days here can be as active or as leisurely as you wish. You could choose to take in tranquil lakeside views, explore historic towns and ancient ruins or visit local vineyards to sample the region's wines. Alternatively, you can simply find a peaceful spot overlooking the water and enjoy the scenery.
Wellness is another benefit of holidaying here, with award winning resorts providing an opportunity to dedicate your holiday entirely to relaxation. Lefay Resort & SPA Lago Di Garda is a standout choice, combining spectacular views with sophisticated spa and wellness experiences. Its tranquil setting provides the ideal environment for stepping away from the demands of modern life and concentrating entirely on your own wellbeing.
4. Kyoto - Japan
Kyoto offers a completely different type of relaxation. Steeped in centuries of history and Japanese tradition, this enchanting city provides an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with yourself and experience a culture where tranquillity has deeply embedded in everyday life for centuries.
Joining an ancient Japanese tea ceremony is a wonderful way to experience this peaceful philosophy, while Kyoto's serene temple gardens offer beautiful spaces for quiet contemplation. With more than 2,000 shrines and temples to discover, there are endless opportunities to explore authentic Japanese culture away from the pace of the more mainstream visitor attractions.
For an exceptional stay, Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto is nestled beside the 800-year-old Shakusuien pond garden, creating an atmosphere of privacy and tranquillity despite its location in the city. Guests can enjoy a subterranean swimming pool, stunning spa and an impressive collection of Japanese art. Dining at Michelin-starred Sushi Wakon and visiting the traditional tea house overlooking the pond provide further opportunities to immerse yourself in the unique, tranquil character of Kyoto.
5. Antigua
Antigua is another superb option when searching for the most relaxing places to go on holiday. While the island is famous for its beautiful Caribbean beaches, those seeking genuine tranquillity can take relaxation to another level by staying on Jumby Bay Island.
Just two miles from the coast of Antigua, this private 300-acre island is a haven of natural beauty. Rare tropical flowers, swaying palms and two picture-postcard beaches create a setting where privacy and peace come naturally.
Jumby Bay Island offers an exceptional collection of accommodation designed to maximise comfort, privacy and a connection with the surrounding environment. Elegant beachfront suites and spectacular villas are creatively positioned across the island to provide guests with a secluded sanctuary all of their own.
Personalised service is another defining feature of staying here. From bespoke dining experiences and tailored excursions to attentive beachside butler services, every detail is designed to allow guests to relax from the moment they arrive. It is this combination of natural beauty, seclusion and exceptional hospitality that has established Jumby Bay Island as one of the Caribbean's most sought-after private island retreats.
Create Your Perfect Relaxing Holiday
Whether you are drawn to the relaxing waters of the Maldives and St Lucia, the lakeside beauty of Italy or the unique way of life in Kyoto, the best relaxing holiday destinations are those that allow you to leave all your stresses at the airport and concentrate on enjoying each and every moment of your time away.
At Elegant Resorts, our Luxury Travel Specialists can create a tailor-made relaxing holiday around your individual preferences and requirements. From choosing the perfect room or private villa to arranging experiences designed around your interests, we'll create a tailor made relaxing holiday itinerary which is every bit as unique as you are. Get in touch with the Elegant Resorts team today and begin the exciting process of starting your countdown to relaxation.