Many Americans find themselves feeling overworked and stressed from work, childcare and other daily responsibilities. When it’s vacation time, a regular trip doesn’t quite give the needed reset. Enter wellness tourism.
The popularity of wellness retreats continues to rise as more people understand the importance of focusing on health and well-being. The global wellness tourism market was valued at $451 billion and is expected to continue to expand through 2030, according to a report from market research and consulting company Grand View Research. Whether it’s a yoga retreat in India, hot springs in Colorado, a meditation getaway in Thailand, or a wellness cruise to Costa Rica, in such an expansive market, the possibilities are practically endless.
But for those with time or financial restrictions, or for some who don’t want to have to go far to feel better, Georgia can be a hub for a mental and physical reset.
For ways to be a tourist at home, check out some options for a more local restorative session to fit all budgets and needs.
Credit: Courtesy of Chateau Elan
Credit: Courtesy of Chateau Elan
Chateau Elan
100 Rue Charlemagne Dr, Braselton. (678) 425-0900. chateauelan.com
This resort received the AAA Four Diamond Award and was ranked the No. 5 Best Georgia Resort by U.S. News. Boasting several world-class restaurants, a winery, golf and tennis courses, nature trails, bike rentals, a spa, and various activities, this resort will feel like a lavish vacation. The spa includes a fitness center with classes, an indoor saltwater swimming pool, an outdoor sun deck, a hot tub, a sauna, and a wet eucalyptus steam room. Treatments include massage, skin and nail care, and couples’ experiences. And if you feel like honing some new skills or expand your knowledge, they offer classes in culinary, mixology, cigars and bourbon, painting, wine and charcuterie.
Jeju Sauna
3555 Gwinnett Pl Dr NW, Duluth. (678) 336-7414. jejusauna.com
For those looking for an experience, nothing quite compares to Jeju Sauna, a traditional Korean bathhouse spa in Duluth. It’s 24/7 with no appointment necessary. The $35 entrance fee includes access to the salt and rock sauna, temperature-controlled hot tubs, cardio fitness room, napping area and the bathhouse. Upon entering, guests receive a watch key which is active for 24 hours with no re-entry and acts as a tab for paid services. Paid treatment options include Swedish body massage, hip bath and body shampoo. Korean food is also available for purchase.
Tybee Wellness Retreats
(912) 657-0228. tybeewellnessretreats.com
This three-night intensive retreat package at an upscale Tybee Island home includes yoga classes and an interactive energy workshop, as well as an art workshop. Vegetarian and whole food meals are prepared by personal chefs. The journey begins with setting your intentions for the weekend. For the next few days, guests are guided through creative activities meant to inspire change and growth. Massages and facials are available for additional costs.
Elohee
251 Elohee Drive, Sautee Nacoochee. (770) 316-9195. elohee.org
The Elohee Retreat Center is designed as an escape into nature. You can stay at Thanksgiving House in the Waterfall Canyon. The house features a meditation/yoga room and a patio that overlooks a 100-foot waterfall. The resort offers a wide range of natural sights through the trail system around the forest and Bald Mountain. They also have a variety of retreats to choose from, including personal development, yoga, women’s retreats and R&R weekends
ClassPass
classpass.com/search/atlanta/wellness
For those who can’t commit to more than an hour or so, ClassPass has several wellness options around Atlanta. Sessions are available for yoga, chromotherapy, sauna, massage, facials and a variety of group fitness classes. They offer a free two-week trial so you can test out a few before making any commitment.
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead
3376 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta. (404) 995-7500 hilton.com/en/hotels/atlwawa-waldorf-astoria-atlanta-buckhead
Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead is located in what’s been called ”the Beverly Hills of the South” — Buckhead. The spa boasts 13 treatment rooms, private English gardens and vitality pools. A hotel stay also includes a personal concierge.
Ritz-Carlton Reynolds
1 Lake Oconee Trail, Greensboro. (706) 467-0600. ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/georgia/reynolds
Situated next to Lake Oconee, you can float on the water or enjoy live music near the lake. Spend time on the golf course or take advantage of the seasonal spa treatments, one of which is a massage treatment incorporating Georgia red clay.
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