Do Not Disturb
Where to find wellness in cities around the world
Willow Urban Retreat Melbourne
Housed in a beautiful Victorian building in Melbourne’s affluent Armadale neighbourhood, Willow Urban Retreat offers a 360° approach to wellness that combines the best of Eastern and Western healing modalities.
From Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation and sound baths, to more medical approaches to wellness such as remedial massage, osteopathy treatments and naturopathy, Willow promotes a wellrounded healing experience that will bring you back to optimum health in mind, body and spirit.
The space itself is peaceful and inviting, as light tones, earthy textures and minimalist design offer an instant breath of fresh air. Speaking of which—the centre prides itself on its air purifying system, which is said to boost clarity and calm.
Willow also houses a café that serves nourishing, satisfying dishes. The menu is a collaboration between the centre’s naturopath and celebrated local chef Nick Cree, and features plenty of fresh, local produce, including goodies from the centre’s own farm located on the Mornington Peninsula.
South Kensington Club London
London’s South Kensington Club—or SKC as it’s more widely known—caters to the city’s well-heeled wellness fanatics. Housed in a classic Georgian building, its Mediterranean meets-colonial décor creates a tranquil space for healing.
South Kensington Club comprises a Russian banya, a Turkish hammam with a plunge pool, several relaxation areas and a watsu pool, complete with a watsu master to guide guests through the increasingly popular treatment. It also has three fitness studios, with yoga, pilates, barre, cardio and boxing and personal training sessions on rotation. If you prefer to work out alone, there’s a spacious top floor gym with a conservatory roof that floods the space with natural light.
After working up an appetite, members can enjoy cold-pressed juices and elegant healthy dishes at the club’s Mediterranean restaurant before retiring to the club’s spa, which is arguably one of the best in the city.