Words: Aobh O'Brien-Moody
Getting away from it all shouldn’t mean parking on a sun lounger and scrolling Instagram, or responding to work emails between bites at the breakfast buffet. But such is the reality in today’s hyper-connected world. It’s no surprise that travellers are seeking out offline experiences that force them to be truly present. And luckily, their calls are being answered, with an increasing number of destinations now offering luxury off-grid accommodations and digital detoxes. Feeling game? Ditch the devices and check into one of these rejuvenating retreats.
Unplugged, various locations across the UK
Upon arriving at one of Unplugged’s off-grid cabins (of which there are over 20 across the UK), you’ll be presented with a lockbox for your phone, an old-school Nokia for emergencies, an instant camera to capture memories of your retreat, plus books and games for entertainment – everything you need to truly switch off. Each retreat is fully immersed in nature (complete with panoramic window views and some of the country’s most scenic walking trails on your doorstep), but certainly doesn’t skimp on luxury: expect hot showers, eco-friendly toiletries, a well-equipped kitchen and luxurious linen bedding.
Loire Valley Lodges, France
Set within the 750-acre Duporterie forest, the Loire Valley Lodges comprise 18 boutique treehouses that are perched four metres above the ground and accessible by ladder, each with a private deck and hot tub. Lodges are without TVs or WiFi and phone reception is dodgy, leaving guests little choice but to engage with their natural surroundings – whether that’s swimming in the outdoor pool, walking or cycling through the forest or taking a hot Nordic bath.
Villa Stéphanie, Baden-Baden, Germany
Villa Stéphanie is widely considered the grand dame of European wellness retreats. Nestled within the grounds of Baden-Baden’s 19th-century Brenners Park-Hotel and Spa, it occupies 5,000 square metres and includes an enormous indoor pool, hammam, sauna, treatment rooms and gym. The tranquillity that permeates these spaces extends to each of the 15 rooms, which are fitted with cutting-edge digital detox switches that shut off WiFi and electronics for a restful, uninterrupted sleep.
Rancho La Puerta, Baja California, México
The secluded Rancho La Puerta at the northernmost tip of Baja California has been a renowned wellness retreat since it opened in the 1940s. It remains the go-to destination for Hollywood A-listers and wealthy wellness obsessives, who flock to it for holistic therapies, fitness classes and organic treatments. It also serves as the ultimate escape for those looking to recuperate from burnout or overcome an over-reliance on technology, thanks to a “digital noise-free environment” policy: guests are given a sleeping bag for their phones on arrival, and only a select number of areas throughout the grounds offer WiFi access.
Fabriken Furillen, Gotland, Sweden
Fabriken Furillen offers a truly unique stay amongst the craggy limestone formations and deserted beaches of Gotland’s remote Furillen peninsula. The interior spaces, complete with open fireplaces and chunky woollen textiles, are a cosy and welcoming contrast to the lunar-like landscape and brutalist exterior. To lean into the digital-free lifestyle, check into the completely off-grid Hermit Cabin, which necessitates a minimum three-night stay and encourages longer stays – and thus more will power to resist the lure of modern technology – with a reduced rate from the fourth night.
Chiva-Som Hua Hin, Thailand
Massage, guided exercise and nutrition form the basis of Chiva-Som in Thailand’s resort town of Hua Hin. To get the most out of these wellness practices and to fully immerse themselves in the experience, guests are discouraged from using their phones, laptops and tablets outside of their rooms. The promised result is a newfound sense of mindfulness, focus and introspection.
Eden Health Retreat, Queensland, Australia
Australia’s longest running luxury health retreat Eden Health Retreat is set amongst 400 acres of lush rainforest in Currumbin Valley, offering stressed, burned-out guests the space they need to fully decompress and reconnect with themselves. The majority of the retreat doesn’t receive phone signal or offer WiFi, making it the perfect setting for a digital detox.
For more travel inspiration, read our ultimate guide to Lisbon...
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