Every now and then, we need a break from our 24/7 lives. A time-out from work, social, and familial obligations where we can disconnect from the world and regain our sense of physical and mental wellbeing. But where to go when the need strikes? At these five stunning nature retreats, you’ll bask in pristine landscapes, find awe-inspiring experiences, and nourish your mind and body before leaving fully recharged. 

BUAHAN, A BANYAN TREE ESCAPE

Photo: Banyan Tree Escape

From every corner of this new resort, you’ll see unspoiled rainforests and, if you’re lucky, a peek of the Ayung River. The 16 villas at Banyan Tree Escape boast a “No Walls, No Doors” concept which fully immerses guests in the area’s natural surroundings, so you’ll wake up to mists hanging low over the forests and enjoy views of Bali’s seven peaks from your private pool. Look for the secret “Hideaway Spots” dotted around the property—these little sanctuaries offer guests the chance to meditate, read, or just relax in tranquil natural surrounds—then head to the Toja Spa to indulge in Balinese-inspired wellness rituals in an “open garden” setting. The environmental immersion is complete with a zero-waste farm-to-table dining concept and The Botanist Bar, where cocktails are made with local ingredients and botanicals.

EMERALD LAKE LODGE

Photo: Emerald Lake Lodge

If your back-to-nature retreat requires unplugging from the world, head to Emerald Lake Lodge in Canada’s Yoho National Park. Here, wifi is only available in the main building, guestrooms have no TVs, and there’s not a bar of cellphone service to be had. Instead, you’ll spend your days ensconced in incredible views of the pristine, blue-green lake fringed by tall trees that have stood sentry for centuries. In winter, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing adventures and in summer, take to the lake with canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. Of course, there’s plenty of hiking to be had, too, and you’re well-positioned for day trips to other naturally blessed locales in neighbouring Banff and Jasper. Set aside some time to enjoy the outdoor hot tub and soak in views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

UNDER CANVAS ACADIA

Photo: Bailey Made

Enjoy the best of Maine and Acadia National Park from this seasonal tented camp in the US, which features 100 acres of waterfront land and more than 1,200 feet of coastline. Under Canvas Acadia isn’t far from the park’s main entrance—the popular Cadillac Mountain Trail is just 35 minutes away if you want to hike it—but you’ll be far from the crowds at this glamping spot. Wake up to the sound of waves lapping the shore and a spot of waterfront yoga, then perhaps do a bit of hiking, standing-up paddling, or kayaking. In the evening, enjoy a drink as you take in the sunset views then tuck into a dinner of Maine classics like Cajun lobster rolls. Try and visit during fall, when the trees are awash in vivid explosions of gold, burnt orange, and red for leaf-peeping season.

THREE CAMEL LODGE MONGOLIA

Photo; Three Camel Lodge

Immerse yourself in the stark wilderness and nomadic culture of Mongolia’s Desert at Three Camel Lodge, a luxury ecolodge that honours the traditional hospitality of the country’s native herders. By night, you’ll sleep in comfortably appointed “Ger” tents and enjoy authentic Mongolian gastronomy made with locally-grown sustainable ingredients and inspired by nomadic tradition. During the day, you’ll explore the majestic Gobi Desert with a range of activities and excursions. Try your hand at nomadic archery, embark on a birding expedition or biking adventure, or perhaps take a horseback ride to a mystical lake with healing waters. Up for more adventures? Hike the Yol Valley National Park, assist on an archaeological dig in the famed Flaming Cliffs, and ride Bactrian camels across the Moltsog Els sand dunes—you can even camp overnight under the stars.

WILDERNESS HOTEL INARI

Photo: Wilderness Hotel Inari

Explore the sweeping arctic landscapes of Finnish Lapland from Wilderness Hotel Inari. Nestled along the edge of Lake Inari, this exotic property gives guests the chance to frolic among vast landscapes thick with towering fir trees—and of course, see the notoriously fickle Aurora Borealis. Winter is your best chance to see the elusive Northern Lights—Wilderness Hotel Inari will do its best to ensure you catch them with Aurora-chasing activities such as snowshoe walks, camp excursions, and snowmobiling. Or, you can catch the light show from the comfort of your bed by booking an Aurora Cabin, which features a laser-heated glass roof. Of course, there are other ways to get out and about, from adrenaline-fuelling husky safaris to ice fishing. The nature here is equally gorgeous in summer, though it offers a different experience—fancy a hike under the magical midnight sun or foraging for wild berries?