Nutrition at Wellness Retreats: What You’ll Really Eat and Why It Matters
When I first started travelling for wellness, one of my biggest worries was the food. Would it all be all green juices and tiny portions? Or would I leave feeling energised, nourished, and satisfied?
If you’re considering a wellness retreat, chances are you’ve asked yourself the same thing. After all, food isn’t just fuel, it’s comfort, culture, and joy. The way you eat on retreat can shape your entire experience. So let me ask you this: what would it feel like to spend a week eating in a way that truly supports your body, without sacrificing flavour or pleasure?
Expect real, nourishing meals
The biggest surprise for myself and many of my guests is just how enjoyable retreat meals actually are. Yes, the food is healthy, but it’s also delicious. Chefs at leading retreats really know how to make nutritious food really tasty and enjoyable. Think grilled fish with fresh herbs, colourful plant-based bowls, or fragrant curries made lighter without losing their depth of flavour.
My tip: Healthy food doesn’t have to feel restrictive. In fact I think the more enjoyable it is, the more likely you are to want to incorporate that way of eating when you return home.
Personalised nutrition programs
Many retreats go far beyond basic set menus. You’ll often meet with a nutritionist who tailors your meals to your goals, whether that’s boosting energy, improving gut health, or supporting weight management.
For example, at SHA Wellness Clinic in Spain or RAKxa Wellness in Thailand, your daily meals might be designed around your body composition analysis. At REVĪVŌ in Bali, the focus is on creating a sustainable plan that you can continue at home.
Ask yourself - Would a personalised plan help you reset old habits?
Balancing health with enjoyment
Retreats aren’t about punishment or strict dieting. In fact, many encourage balance rather than restriction. At Euphoria Retreat in Greece, you might enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired feast with olive oil, fresh vegetables, and a glass of local herbal tea.
Some retreats even offer a glass of wine with dinner, especially in Europe. At Dolce Vita Hotel Preidlhof in Italy, pleasure is seen as part of wellness, not something to cut out.
Excellent retreat cuisine
Here’s a taste of what you’ll find at some of my favourite retreats:
Kamalaya, Thailand – Delicious Asian-inspired dishes designed to balance energy, and if you have a sweet tooth then I recommend you try the chocolate mousse.
Absolute Sanctuary, Thailand – Detox-focused menus with fresh juices and raw options, hit up the smoothie bar for a pick me up.
TIA Wellness Resort, Vietnam – Modern Vietnamese cuisine with a healthy twist.
COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali – Nutrient-rich Indonesian and contemporary meals paired with outdoor dining in lush nature
Aro Ha, New Zealand – Plant-based menus designed to reduce inflammation and support energy
RAKxa, Thailand - Serves international and regional dishes, including Mediterranean and elevated Thai options.
Have you noticed how varied this all is? That’s the beauty of it. You can choose a retreat that fits your lifestyle and food preferences rather than compromising.
The good news is that the food at a wellness retreat is often one of the highlights (did I mention the chocolate mousse at Kamalaya and check out the restaurant where you can enjoy it above) and even while enjoying this tasty food, you’ll leave feeling lighter, clearer, and more energised but without feeling like you’ve missed out.
So if you’ve been holding back because you’re worried about the food, I can promise you this: retreats today are about enjoyment, balance, and nourishment.
If you’d like my help finding the perfect retreat for your nutrition and wellness goals, or want advice on which style of cuisine would best support your journey, reach out to me directly here. I’ll guide you to a retreat that matches your goals, lifestyle, and readiness, and make sure you have an experience that leaves you feeling refreshed, energised, and inspired.