Niche Retreats

A new take on the wellness holiday

- Catharine Nicol

The drive for self-improvement has been fuelling a fascinating travel trend for some years – that of sacrificing indulgent holiday time for learning new, positive habits. Rather than overeating and drinking, we want to return home feeling and looking better, refreshed and refocused in our mindset and outlook. The default detox, fitness or yoga retreats are alive and well, but waves of niche options mean there really is a perfect retreat for everyone.

ICE AND FIRE… My father’s enthusiasm for daily cold baths fell on deaf ears when I was young, but perhaps there was something to it. Wim Hof, the infamous Iceman, takes the practice far further on his retreats, which focus on cold therapy via ice bathing combined with breathing techniques; extreme measures for extreme health. While weekend workshops are available year-round, this January his expeditions take you to his home in wintery Poland, where you’ll learn the techniques then hike through snowy landscapes (in shorts!) before dipping fearlessly into icy ponds. The practice of exposing your body to severe cold results in an avalanche of health benefits, such as a boosted immune system, mood-enhancing endorphin levels, off-the-scales energy and mental focus, plus reduced stress. The carrot is the sauna back at Wim’s. www.wimhofmethod.com

HORSING AROUND