Four wellness holidays to improve mental health and movement

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 13 to 19 May 2024, and this year’s theme is all about “Movement: moving for our mental health”. 

We all know the positive mental benefits a holiday can have on us, whether it’s because we’re getting sunny weather with a dose of vitamin D, or simply because it’s a well-deserved break which allows us to relax and take time out from our usual daily routines. 

However, this year, thinking about the theme of movement, let’s have a look at a few wellness holidays that can help us improve our mental health and get us moving. 

Walking and hiking in Portugal

If you’re an avid walker, or you simply love being at one with nature, you can’t go wrong with Portugal. There are loads of walking and hiking routes to follow in Portugal and there’ll be loads of great scenery to accompany it. 

And of course, it’s not just mainland Portugal that offers a wide range of hiking paths, but also its islands like Madeira and the Azores. 

Here are some of our favourites: 

Women walking along a path on 25 Fontes, Madeira
  • Caminho Central de Santiago de Compostela – Porto to Santiago de Compostela     
    This hike might take a few days, but it is one of the best-known pilgrimages in the world. Now, this hike can actually be started in Lisbon (if you want the full-length experience), however, if you want to shave some time off, starting in Porto (150 miles/240 kilometres) doesn’t take away from the overall experience. This hike is long and it’s tough, but super rewarding throughout, so make sure you plan ahead of time.
  • Miradouro da Boca do Inferno – The Azores     
    The Azores makes for a fantastic holiday, especially for nature lovers and hikers. You might have seen the iconic lagoons in São Miguel surrounded by lush greenery. If you have, then it’s worth knowing that you can actually go on an easy circular hike (1.7 miles/2.7 kilometres) through Boca do Inferno, which includes a viewpoint where you can witness the two lagoons in all their glory.  
  • 25 Fontes – Madeira     
    Do you prefer your hikes come with waterfalls? Well, the 25 Fontes hike set on the stunning island of Madeira would be just up your street. This beautiful hike will take you through the forest and into a lagoon with a whopping 25 waterfalls. The hike is moderate-difficult (8 miles/13 kilometres) and if you’re staying in the capital of Funchal, you’ll require a car to get out to the starting point, unless you’re travelling with a tour group. 

Other great hikes include Sete Vales Suspensos in the Algarve and Trilho do Vinho do Porto in the Douro Valley.

Yoga and meditation in Sri Lanka  

If your type of wellness retreat is taking it easy with some yoga, mindfulness and deep breathing exercises, then perhaps Sri Lanka will tickle your fancy. 

The island is home to some wonderful yoga retreats which include everything from Kundalini yoga, vinyasa yoga, Ayurvedic spa treatments, delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, spin classes, massage therapists… and so much more. 

There will be different packages available at different retreats. But Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination to relax, unwind and enjoy a mental break. The island is lush, so there’s plenty of nature to explore, especially if you choose to head to Ella through misty forests and see the tea plantations.

Train Muay Thai in Thailand  

The martial art of Muay Thai is highly sought after in Thailand. Whether you’re trying to get in shape, get disciplined, or are looking to build some mental and physical endurance, Muay Thai classes and camps in Thailand are a great way to achieve it.

There will be beginner, intermediate and expert classes depending on your level of Muay Thai. And you can spend however long doing these classes as you want. Whether it’s two weeks or two months… you’ll be in tip-top shape in no time. 

Phuket is often a great choice to find a Muay Thai camp, as you can always enjoy some downtime on the beach after training. Plus, the Thais are known for their great-tasting food which will definitely help your fitness regime. 

Of course, you don’t have to commit to any long-term plans either. If you’re heading to Thailand for a wellness holiday, you can always find a gym to try out a one-off class during your trip. 

Cycling holidays in Italy

Getting on your bike is one of the best ways to keep moving whilst seeing a country from a different angle. And if you like a plateful of tasty pasta with an Aperol spritz on the side, then cycling in Italy is the perfect wellness holiday for you. 

Here are some great cycling areas for you to try in Italy: 

A women cycling in the Dolomites
  • Cycling the Dolomites      
    Think fresh air away from the traffic and beautiful Alpine views… The Dolomites are truly impressive. You’ll no doubt pass little villages along the way which are perfect for a sit down and a coffee to refuel you.
  • Cycling in Tuscany      
    Tuscany is loved by many, and once you’ve experienced the local culture it’s easy to see why. There are loads of famous cyclists to have come from Tuscany including Paolo Bettini and Alberto Bettoil, plus, the region is well-known for its race, the Strade Bianche.
  • Cycling the Amalfi Coast      
    The Amalfi Coast is one of the most well-known areas in the south of Italy. The coastal road around Sorrento (the Nastro Azzurro) is absolutely stunning and well-worth a cycle around. On the other side, you have Positano which is just as beautiful. This area can be super busy during the peak periods, so take that into consideration when arranging your cycling trip.

ABTA members are experts at tailor-making your trip, so why not speak to one to put together your wellness holiday? Find an ABTA member using our member search and get planning!