In the 21st Century, all tourists seek unique travel experiences, tailored to their needs. But are all travel operators providing sustainable, accessible, and inclusive destinations that allow people to enjoy their holidays without hindrance? There are 13.9 million people living with a disability in the UK. That’s 20% of the population – which means 1 in 5 customers are likely to have a long-term health condition that impacts their day-to-day lives. Championing wellness for everyone, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists has extensively researched and put together their accessible travel offering to help travellers make informed decisions about where to go when it comes to booking a wellness holiday that caters for their unique needs.
Paul Joseph, Founder of Health and Fitness Travel, says “Tour operators need to know that accessibility isn’t all about wheelchairs, but also about sensory disabilities, learning disabilities and particular needs around long-term medical conditions – and try and cater for all these needs as much as they can, given their resources. We think beyond the wheelchair and have launched a new a part of our website solely dedicated to accessible travel for all. We’ve also taken steps to make browsing our website more accessible to further break down the barriers for those seeking accessible wellness retreat experiences.”
Discover the best accessible wellness retreats in various popular destinations from luxury spas in Thailand, to country manors in England, all available to book with Health and Fitness Travel:
For the Quintessentially English Country Retreat: Grantley Hall, UK
Surrounded by the lush rolling green hills of North Yorkshire, Grantley Hall is a serene sanctuary of luxury surrounded by stunning English countryside. Dating back to the 17th century, it’s the perfect place to visit for those seeking either fitness or spa retreats or combining the two to boost health, happiness and immunity. When you’re not receiving treatments or exercising, take in the perfectly manicured gardens or visit the nearby UNESCO site of Fountains Abbey. With an accessible spa offering luxurious treatments, 3 themed restaurants and all classes being adaptable to those with disabilities it offers the ideal luxury wellness experience for all abilities.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 3 nights at Grantley Hall from £1,615pp for single occupancy or £2,575pp on a sharing basis. Price includes full board and a wellness programme.
Wellness in the Mountains: Atmantan Wellness Resort, India
From the unique, organic architecture, to the unspoilt views over Mulshi Lake, every aspect of Atmantan co-exists beautifully coming together to evoking a sense of belonging. With excellent facilities including a 3,500 sq. foot fitness centre and an exclusive spa lead by expert therapists, it’s India’s premier destination for a healthy holiday. Specialising in detox, weight loss and de-stress retreats, Atmantan thrives on delivering an educational and transformational wellness experience that unites heart, body and soul. With accessible architecture that blends in seamlessly with its environment and lots of fantastic accessible features, Atmantan welcomes everyone looking to change their lives for the better!
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Atmantan Wellness Resort from £2,310pp on a sharing basis or £3,780pp for single occupancy. Price includes a full board, optional return private transfers and a wellness programme.
The Grand and The Luxurious: Palacio Estoril Golf & Spa Hotel, Portugal
Discover the feeling of being completely relaxed and rejuvenated on a comprehensive wellness holiday at Palacio Estoril, a luxurious wellness & spa hotel just 20 minutes from Lisbon overlooking the Bay of Cascais. Home to the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa as well as James Bond fame, the hotel is renowned for its all-round approach to wellness, boasting world-class weight-loss, detox, anti-ageing and spa programmes. All facilities and activities are accessible, with the pool even having a mechanical chair, meaning everyone has the opportunity to have fun, work on their health and make memories on holiday at this inclusive and ideally-situated wellness destination.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Palacio Estoril from £1,420pp or £1,840pp for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, transfers and a wellness programme.
For Thalassotherapy: Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
Nestled amid snow-capped surroundings and crystal-clear mountain lakes, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland offers multiple health, fitness and relaxation experiences. Home to a leading sports and healthcare centre, renowned thermal water spa and two championship golf courses, this holistic paradise is undoubtedly a mecca for wellness. Whether you aim to be active or simply relax, choose the programme to suit your needs in this beautiful Alpine setting. Elegantly designed suites, with wider access, a host of award-winning restaurants and bespoke guidance from the experienced team of nutritionists, doctors and personal instructors will assure to leave you recharged, with a renewed sense of well-being.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz from £7,285pp or £8,300pp for single occupancy. Price includes full board, return transfers and a wellness programme.
For Nature: Euphoria Retreat, Greece
Set in the rugged mystical Taygetus mountain range, Euphoria Retreat is somewhere you can escape to experience a true state of happiness and bliss. This Mediterranean retreat blends both Greek and Chinese healing traditions allowing you to embark on a journey of wellness and transformation. Re-focus and relax in the yoga and meditation hall and strengthen and train in the state-of-the-art fitness studio. The tranquil Euphoria Retreat SPA boasts water Kneipp therapy, restoring foot baths and an innovative sphere pool. With custom designed wholesome cuisine, beautiful surroundings, luxurious suites and comprehensive wellness programmes to choose from; Euphoria retreat is a real hidden gem.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Euphoria Retreat from £2,930pp or £3,325pp for single occupancy. Price includes full board, return private transfers and a wellness programme.
For La Dolce Vita: Lefay Resort & Spa Lago Di Garda, Italy
Soak up vibrant Italian wellness at the first spa retreat to earn a superior five star rating on Lake Garda. Located in the picturesque village of Gargnano, Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda is an accessible, eco-friendly and charming luxury retreat well worth a visit. From stress-relieving to detox, weight loss and even family holidays, there is a retreat experience perfectly tailored to the traveller’s needs. Amongst the accessible facilities you’ll find gourmet restaurants, a lavish spa with inviting saunas and swimming pools, an expansive fitness centre and a friendly team for who can’t do enough for you. Return home (reluctantly) feeling wholly replenished.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Lefay Resort & Spa Lago Di Garda from £3,005pp or £3,760pp for single occupancy. Price includes full board, return private transfers and a wellness programme.
For the Algarve Beaches: Pine Cliffs Luxury Resort, Portugal
Nestled amongst the vibrant and sunny Algarve coastline, Pine Cliffs Resort is a luxurious hideaway for those seeking a wellness holiday by the sea. Tucked between hidden beaches and close to majestic mountains, you can explore and enjoy the most southern region of Portugal in a relaxed atmosphere, with a striking view over the Atlantic Ocean. Retreat in the knowledge that you are in safe hands with nursing staff, accessible and guide dog-friendly facilities on site. Soak up the picturesque environment by lounging on the beach or take a Jeep Tour across the countryside before relaxing the spa, returning feeling fresh and re-invigorated.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Pine Cliffs from £1,305pp or £1,740pp for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, return private transfers and a wellness programme.
For the Golf: Aphrodite Hills, Cyprus
Set on a plateau overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this luxurious Cypriot five-star golf, tennis and spa resort prides itself with an indulgent wellness approach that includes excellent outdoor sports and a luxurious spa. Follow Aphrodite’s footprints and relax like a god or goddess as you sample natural, holistic treatments and therapies. In the award-winning Retreat spa, enjoy manicures, facials, body wraps and hot stone massages to calm the mind and nourish body and soul. With easy access to the pools and restaurants, and medical facilities on site, the utmost care and attention is yours.
Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Aphrodite Hills from £1,055pp or £1,245pp for single occupancy. Price includes breakfast, return transfers and a wellness programme.
For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891
