Meditation & Mindfulness Retreats

A mindfulness holiday — sometimes called a meditation retreat holiday — is a wellness break built around practices that support present-moment awareness, calm and inner clarity. Programmes typically include guided meditation, breathwork, mindful walking, gentle yoga and time for silence and reflection, all delivered in a peaceful, low-stimulation setting.

Many mindfulness retreats for beginners welcome guests who have never meditated before, with experienced teachers providing step-by-step guidance in a supportive, non-judgemental setting. Programmes are designed to meet you where you are, whether you are completely new to the practice or looking to deepen an existing one.

A meditation retreat tends to be more immersive, with a set programme of guided sessions, periods of silence and a structured daily rhythm. A mindfulness holiday is usually more flexible, blending mindfulness practices with other wellness activities like spa treatments, yoga or gentle fitness. Both support inner calm and clarity.

Many guests leave feeling calmer, clearer and better equipped to manage stress. Regular meditation practice during a retreat often improves sleep, focus and emotional balance. The practical techniques you learn are designed to be continued at home, making the benefits lasting rather than temporary.

Many mindfulness retreats include yoga, spa treatments, gentle movement and holistic therapies alongside the meditation programme. Hotel-based stays tend to offer the most flexibility for guests wanting a broader wellness experience with mindfulness as a central thread.

Meditation and mindfulness retreats abroad are one of the most natural types of wellness holiday to enjoy alone — the reflective, inward-facing nature of the experience suits solo guests well. The solo-friendly retreats page has more options for guests travelling independently.

Mas Qi in Spain is a boutique retreat dedicated to mindfulness, meditation and energy healing in the mountains of Alicante. Euphoria Retreat in Greece blends meditation with holistic healing in a stunning mountain setting. And Shanti Som in Spain provides an intimate, nurturing space for meditation and reflection in the Andalucian hills.

Santani in Sri Lanka offers guided meditation and yoga in a minimalist, nature-led setting in the misty central highlands above Kandy. Absolute Sanctuary on Koh Samui combines mindfulness with yoga and holistic wellness in a boutique tropical retreat. And Shanti Maurice in Mauritius provides dedicated meditation programmes in a serene Indian Ocean island setting.

Shorter stays of 3 to 5 nights offer a meaningful introduction and a chance to reset. Stays of 7 nights or more allow time to settle into a deeper practice and experience the cumulative benefits of daily meditation. We can advise on the right duration based on your experience level and what you are looking for.

Several retreats in the collection offer all-inclusive meditation retreat formats where accommodation, meals, guided meditation sessions and wellness activities are all included in one price. Six Senses Vana in India and Santani Wellness Resort in Sri Lanka both offer all-inclusive formats with daily meditation as part of the programme. Many other retreats are inclusive of meals and activities but charge separately for individual treatments.