How to have a Health Retreat in France

Every now and again, we all need to take a break from the stresses of day-to-day life and escape to rejuvenate for a few days. One of the favourite places for this in Europe is France. The country has some of the most beautiful scenery, and lots of charming villas in France are readily available making the perfect place to stay.

Why France?

There are many reasons that make France the perfect destination for a health retreat including its natural beauty, diversity, world-class food and fine wine. It is fully worth saving money to travel to this beautiful destination. If you want to escape the noise and pollution, head to one of the many charismatic villages dotted around the countryside. Most villages have ATM’s, restaurants and a strong Wi-Fi connection while still retaining their traditional character. If you want to explore the history, you have castles, palaces and former battlefields to check out. Or perhaps, you just want a few days relaxing in the French Alps or along the Riviera. And then add in the mild year-round climate, and you have the perfect spot to relax.

Where to Go in France for a Health Retreat:

So now that you know why France makes an excellent destination for a health retreat, let’s take a look at a few of the best places to spend your time. You won’t need to worry about nutrition facts or counting calories, all the food and exercise is readily available. After all, who wants to spend their time walking around the busy and noisy streets of Paris when they want to relax?

Provence in France’s southeast shares a border to the east with Italy and has a large section of the Mediterranean coast to the south. The environment is somewhat special with lavender growing in the fields and the endless stretches of olive trees. Popular activities in Provence include enjoying the outdoors with several trails for hiking. Kayaking is also a favourite pastime. You can explore ancient Roman ruins and spend your time soaking up the charm and atmosphere in one of the many villages. Spending a few days in Provence is certain to make a perfect place for a retreat.

If you’re flying into Paris and want to spend a few days recuperating in a medieval town, head to Chartres, which is about 100 kilometres from the capital. You’ll find a 13th-century cathedral along with lots of gothic buildings. The old town is very romantic with its ageing facades and cobblestone streets. A number of hotels and vacation rentals are sure to provide you with the luxury you need.

Brittany has lots of places that make an ideal spot for a health retreat. But few beat the small town of Locronan, in the north-western part of the province. Locronan is consistently rated as one of France’s most beautiful villages making it a suitable place to enjoy a few days. Inside the town, you’ll see various 18th-century buildings and a Gothic church and you’re within a few minutes of nature. Can there be anything better than relaxing with a glass of wine while soaking up the wonderful atmosphere inside this town?

What to Do on Your Health Retreat:

There are lots of health spas around France offering services from facials to the full day treatment. Most are in serene environments and make for a great place to relax. You should consider looking into what spas are around the area you’re planning to stay and try to arrange a day of treatment. Yoga is also popular in France and finding a class in your area is never very difficult.

Apart from the above, many of France’s towns and cities have large public gardens full of flowers and colour in the warmer months. Why not head down and spend the afternoon with a picnic and a good book? Few can find anything more relaxing than spending an hour or two in a beautiful garden surrounded by fantastic scenery. And after that, you could head to the nearby cafes and restaurants for a coffee or some of the world-famous French cuisine.

If you ask people around the world what France is famous for, wine is sure to be one of their top answers. So, for those of you who like the odd glass of wine, joining a wine tour is a must. There are many tours to choose from, and it all depends on the region you’re staying in. But it’s worth the excursion, and you may be able to bring back a bottle for yourself.

Tips for the Having Perfect Health Retreat:

A health retreat means different things to different people. Make sure you define exactly what it means to you before planning where to go in France. If you want to spend your time at the spas, don’t book accommodation in one of the smaller villages. And, likewise, you’re not going to get much peace when you stay near Paris. Be clear about what you want, and you can start planning the ideal retreat.

A range of hotels and resorts are around France with some offering the full package including an adjoining spa and other amenities. These are ideal places to start your search. You may also be able to find recommendations online from other travellers to help you make the right decision.

France is a Great Place for a Retreat:

France has beautiful scenery, fine wine and lots of high-end resorts, vacation rentals and hotels. You can find what you’re looking for to have a perfect health retreat whether you want to spend the week in a spa or on the beach. Just make sure you plan the activities beforehand, and the ultimate relaxation will come next.