Seven Stays to Boost Endorphins this January
Our sure-fire method of beating January’s onslaught of dismal weather and limited daylight hours is our favourite form of retail therapy: booking a well-deserved trip. When the year feels at its gloomiest, there’s no better way to lift spirits and recharge than with a rejuvenating wellness escape to one of the most serene destinations in the world. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical retreat or eager to dive into a new culture, booking a getaway for now or the months ahead is sure to set the tone for an exciting year. Here are some of our top mood-boosting picks to kick off the year:
ACRO Suites, Crete
Image gallery | Newsroom | Starting rate: £334/night (off-peak)
ACRO Suites stands as a serene refuge perched on the cliffside of Agia Pelagia on the picturesque island of Crete, Greece. Catering to discerning travellers seeking a harmonious blend of luxury and wellness, this intimate hideaway offers a nurturing space for guests to rediscover and reconnect with their inner selves. Designed for ultimate relaxation, ACRO presents a unique sleep programme, complete with premium mattresses, a personalised pillow menu, and soothing touches, like lavender mist, herbal teas, and silk sleep masks. Guests can unwind with soothing meditation and yoga sessions at Asana Yoga Shala, indulge in rejuvenating Bathhouse treatments, experience calming sound baths, enjoy personalised in-suite therapies, and immerse themselves in botanical-inspired amenities, guaranteeing an escape of pure tranquillity.
Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, Crete
Image gallery | Newsroom | Starting rate: £158/night (off-peak)
From sunrise to sunset, Seaside A Lifestyle is a safe haven where life slows down to a soothing rhythm. Overlooking Mononaftis Bay, this boho chic retreat provides sweeping views of the sparkling Aegean Sea, an idyllic spot for reconnecting with nature in tranquillity. Enjoy quiet experiences like yoga and meditation at the serene Shala, lounging by the pool, or meditating amidst breathtaking landscapes. From dawn to dusk, every moment is thoughtfully crafted to soothe the mind, elevate the spirit, and restore inner harmony for a revitalising wellness retreat. Whether embracing spiritual exploration, embarking on a journey of self-love and discovery, or simply seeking relief from the stresses of everyday life, this sanctuary offers the perfect escape.
Ajul Luxury Hotel & Spa Resort, Halikidiki
Image gallery | Newsroom | Starting rate: £172/night (off-peak)
Halkidiki’s popularity has surged since last year and it’s not without reason. Tucked along the soft pebble beach and verdant forests of Halkidiki, Ajul Hotel offers a Greek experience that is different to the norm, with a balance of the allure of the sea and lush greenery. Boasting a wide range of accommodation options with 166 modern rooms and suites to spacious bungalows and villas that host up to six, it is the perfect location for multigenerational trips and larger groups travelling for a laidback all-inclusive holiday. The location is also suitable for families who are thinking to rent a car to see more of the island, with plenty of on-site parking space, well-equipped with a spectacular spa, infinity pools, outdoor cinema, and multiple restaurants and bars to help guests relax and recharge.
Nova Maldives, Indian Ocean
Image gallery | Newsroom | Starting rate: £337/night
The soulful spirit of Nova is just the tonic for January blues. Situated in the heart of whale shark territory, Nova’s prime location is a short boat ride away from year round whale shark snorkelling spots. Experiment with one of Nova’s signature lagoon fluoro-snorkelling experiences, for a nocturnal adventure to see manta rays, bioluminescent plankton and fishes in the dark, or enjoy one of Nova’s diving excursions from the in house PADI dive centre. There is even a chance to take part in coral planting at the resort’s newly enhanced floating coral nursery. For the ultimate detox and stress relief, Nova’s serene overwater EsKape Spa offers soul-soothing the EsKape Detox, involving a double seaweed wrap and oil massage.
Kandima Maldives, Indian Ocean
Image gallery | Newsroom | Starting rate: £185/night
Boost January moods with a high-octane holiday at Kandima, where active lifestyle meets adventure. Dedicated to helping guests feel refreshed and recharged, the resort comes with a full house of activities and entertainment for travellers of all ages to enjoy. From family fishing cruise, turtle and dolphin quests, to exhilarating water sports including jet skis, banana boats and parasailing, Kandima is packed with activities to boost endorphins. A must-try for all ages is Kandima’s newly launched e-go karting Fast Track, the newly-opened asphalt oceanfront track and the fastest and the longest in the Maldives. Expect to return emotionally recharged from this island perfect for girls’ getaways, family breaks, couples’ trips and solo experiences.
Jamaica | Starting rate: £412/night
