© Schloss Elmau
Heavenly for Yogis: A Stay at Schloss Elmau
June 20, 2025
Marianne Waldenfels
From the Bavarian Alps to India: Six hotels with holistic well-being concepts and yoga courses in stunning surroundings
Where can one better return to one's center than at Schloss Elmau, in the middle of a protected high valley of the Bavarian Alps near Garmisch, with a spectacular view of the Wetterstein. The surroundings: clear lakes, rushing streams, dense, fragrant forests. In addition to daily yoga classes, also for children, the 'Annual Yoga Summit' takes place here, where you can deepen your knowledge of yoga with outstanding teachers. Naturally, regular retreats in various yoga styles such as Jivamukti, Vinyasa or Yin are also on the program. Tip: the Vinyasa Yoga Retreat with Timo Wahl (5 nights from 05.10.2025).
Relaxation is also offered here with three generous spas featuring four outdoors infinity pools sustainably heated with wood all year round, Oriental Hammam, Japanese Onsen, and Cold Plunge Pools. And: Attending one of the concerts. For in the legendary concert hall of the house, world-famous artists regularly perform. Info: Schloss Elmau
In Kamalaya's innovative wellness philosophy, holistic healing is at the center, where ancient Eastern healing traditions merge with modern Western science. The award-winning Wellness Sanctuary is beautifully located on the south coast of Koh Samui, and in the programs (including detox, stress management, burnout prevention), naturopaths, doctors of traditional Chinese medicine, yoga teachers, massage therapists, and meditation experts work hand in hand.
Every day offers different yoga classes for both beginners and the experienced, including in the Hilltop Yoga Pavilion with breathtaking views of the sea, neighboring islands, and picturesque sunsets.
Good to know: The resort's Longevity House offers therapies such as ozone and oxygen treatments and IV therapies. Info: Kamalaya
The award-winning luxury wellness retreat amidst the tranquility and healing atmosphere of the Sahyadri mountains in Maharashtra is only about three hours' drive from Mumbai. It is all about bringing guests into a state of 'Dharana' (deep concentration and awareness). The philosophy of the house is based on five pillars: preventive medicine, physical regeneration, healing nutrition, emotional balance and spiritual harmony. Ancient wisdom of Ayurveda and naturopathy is combined with advanced diagnostics and functional medicine.
The daily yoga classes are suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners and are an important part of the healing approach in Dharana. There are also therapies such as pranayama meditation, Shirodhara and Kundalini massages on the program. Info: Dharana at Shillim
Need a break from everyday stress to bring body and mind into harmony and rediscover inner balance? Then check into this extraordinary luxury resort right on the Chao Phraya River. RAKxa combines modern medicine with traditional healing methods at the highest level, the house's VitalLife Scientific Wellness Clinic works closely with Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok.
An international team of doctors, naturopaths, physiotherapists, and nutrition experts create customized programs for guests based on comprehensive diagnoses – ranging from anti-aging and detox to sleep and stress management and performance enhancement. The therapies contain elements from longevity medicine, Ayurveda, traditional Chinese and Thai medicine, energy healing, hydrotherapy, and sports therapy. Naturally, each program also includes yoga classes from different yoga traditions taught by experienced teachers from around the world. Info: RAKxa
Pure deceleration: Situated idyllically on the outskirts of Lana between orchards and vineyards, the hotel offers holistic wellness, design, art, and local slow-food cuisine, making it a unique vacation spot. Yoga is one of the essential elements at Schwarzschmied to harmonize body and soul. Hence, two classes daily with teachers from various yoga disciplines are a fixed part of the offering.
Additionally, there are always retreats with different focuses on the program. Tip: "Me-Time" Yoga Retreat with Nadeen Mirza (Sept 29 - Oct 3, 2025). Nadeen teaches Anusara Yoga, where an inspiring theme is woven into each class with fine body alignment. For those who wish to practice independently, a personal yoga mat is available in the room. Alternatively, relax in the spa, swimming in the indoor or outdoor pool, in the saunas or steam bath, or enjoy the wonderful Sound Healing Sessions. Info: Hotel Schwarzschmied
On the west coast of the Thai island of Phuket, just steps from the white sandy beach and turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, lies the newly opened Layan Life by Anantara. Guests here can choose from programs ranging from three to ten days, aimed at stress reduction, weight management, fitness, anti-aging, or general well-being. Each includes a medical check-up and a 3D body scan.
Daily yoga classes are offered, covering different practices. Additionally, you can book holistic treatments such as sound baths and breathing exercises with Dr. Kedar Joshi, to improve your personal sleep cycle and reduce stress.
The hotel also features a Muay Thai boxing ring and a climbing wall, archery facilities, and guests can work out by ziplining, mountain biking, and participating in bootcamp on the beach, as well as kayaking, windsurfing, or on the SUP board. Info: Layan Life by Anantara