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4 Wellness Destinations

Plan a trip to one of these places to recharge and reboot year-round

a winter sunset over glass beach in fort bragg california
Getty Images
By

Kimberley Lovato,

 
AARP
Published January 23, 2023

Thermal baths, peaceful nature trails and energy vortexes are a few of the highlights at these destinations that invite you to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect with your surroundings and yourself. 

a tidepool at sunset in mackerricher state park mendocino county california
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​​Mendocino County, California

​In northern California’s Mendocino County, 90-plus miles of pristine coastline, state and national parks, and some of the world’s tallest and oldest trees converge about two hours north of San Francisco. Start with a leisure walk through a towering redwood grove in Montgomery Woods State Reserve. Tide pooling is as peaceful as it is metaphorical at MacKerricher State Park, where the tide’s ebb and flow reveals pleasant sea surprises (starfish, anemones, crabs) in its rocky nooks. Learn to kayak while exploring the remarkable sea caves of Van Damme State Park (guided tours are available year-round). Stay in the beautifully preserved clifftop village of Mendocino at the Sweetwater Inn & Spa, where outdoor redwood hot tubs are complimentary for guests. 

the golden hour of sunset over sedona arizona
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​​Sedona, Arizona

​Sedona’s mammoth red rock formations and renowned vortexes (areas of swirling energy) draw travelers from around the world to the city and the surrounding landscape. It’s common to see locals and visitors meditating or practicing yoga moves amid the red rocks. Join a tour to learn more about the vortexes or explore the sites solo (download the map and directions before you go). At night, there’s more cosmic enchantment: Sedona is one of only 38 Dark Sky Communities in the world, which means the stargazing is — literally — out of this world. The best spots for viewing are along Dry Creek Road, at Beaverhead Flat Scenic Overlook, and the Two Trees Observation Area. For some retail therapy, check out the boutiques in Uptown and stay at the family-owned Sedona Hilltop Inn, within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

bathhouse row in hot springs alabama
Alamy Stock Photo

​​​​Hot Springs, Arkansas

​With a name like Hot Springs, the activity du jour is easy to guess. This western Arkansas town in the Ouachita Mountains is known for the thermal springs, 47 to be exact, that bubble up in the adjacent Hot Springs National Park. Hot water has long been a method of treating fatigue and boosting wellness, so head to Bathhouse Row, the conga line of eight historic bathhouse buildings constructed between 1892 and 1923. These days, only two let you soak in spring-fed communal and private baths. The Buckstaff Bathhouse, operating since 1912, also offers massages, facials and body scrubs. The Quapaw Bathhouse opened in 1922 and has similar spa services as well as day packages for individuals and couples. In keeping with the theme, the historic 1890 Williams House Inn has nine rooms and suites, each with a jetted tub. ​​

sunset over the river pearl in slidell louisiana
Alamy Stock Photo

St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana 

​St. Tammany Parish is an under-the-radar gem with winding bayous, relaxed rivers and plenty of Southern charm just 40 minutes from New Orleans. Explore the area via the Tammany Trace trail — Louisiana’s first and only rails-to-trails conversion. The 31-mile, car-free path connects five towns (Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and Slidell) and winds past independent coffee shops, a brewery, farmers markets and lush green parks. Or rent canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards in Covington, and enjoy the meditative meander to swimming holes along the Bogue Falaya River. Stop at Mandeville’s Fontainebleau State Park to watch the sunset over Lake Pontchartrain and stay at the cozy Blue Heron B&B that is walking distance to restaurants, shops and the waterfront of Old Mandeville.

Kimberley Lovato is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in National Geographic, Travel + Leisure and Virtuoso: The Magazine, among others.​

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