Holiday type

Detox & Weight Loss

Energize, Relax & Unwind

Detox, short for detoxification, is the process that aims to rid the body of toxins and harmful substances. By reducing exposure to toxins and supporting the body's natural detoxification mechanisms, a detox is believed to help restore balance, enhance vitality and promote overall health. A detox can give various health benefits such as increased energy, improved skin health, weightloss, enhanced mental clarity or starting a healthy lifestyle. It is essential to approach a detox holiday with guidance from qualified professionals to ensure it aligns with your health needs and goals. There are various types of detox holidays or retreats that you can choose based on your preferences, goals and health needs. PureandCure offers a wide range of detox holidays and retreats, such as a Juice Cleanse, Mild Detox, Mayr Detox, Buchinger, Raw Food or Ayurvedic detox.
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Discover all our Detox & Weight Loss holidays

4
MasQi - The Energy House, Spain
A small, luxurious adults-only yoga and meditation resort located in a stylish 19th-century farmhouse at the center of a nature park. The ideal place to reconnect with yourself and with nature.
14 Reviews
Masseria San Domenico
5
Masseria San Domenico, Italy
A small-scale yet spaciously designed adults-only hotel in a 15th century Italian villa, complete with thalasso wellness centre. Masseria San Domenico is situated close to the coastline and the mountains, surrounded by hectares of olive groves.
13 Reviews
Sianji Wellbeing Resort
5
Sianji Wellbeing Resort, Turkey
Sianji Wellbeing Resort brings together detox, fitness, and wellness programs, along with the allure of luxury and relaxation amidst the sun and sea. Experience it all at a competitive price.
90 Reviews
ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort
5
ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort, Ajman (UAE)
Opened in 2022: ZOYA Health & Wellbeing Resort is the first medical spa and adults-only destination in the United Arab Emirates.
The Retreat Costa Rica
4
The Retreat Costa Rica, Costa Rica
The Retreat Costa Rica is one of the best luxury wellness boutique resort and spa, where organic gardens, lush landscapes, chirping birds, and technicolor sunsets are the setting for healing journeys.
11 Reviews
La Clairiere Bio & Spa hotel
4
La Clairière Bio & Spa hotel, France
Situated in the heart of Alsace's forest, La Clairière is among France's pioneering holistic hotels, offering TCM. With vegan menu options and an enchanting spa, it inspires a healthier way of life.
13 Reviews
Almar Jesolo Resort & Spa
5
Almar Jesolo Resort & Spa, Italy
At the stylish Almar Jesolo Resort & Spa, every aspect is seamlessly managed, allowing you to focus solely on taking care of yourself.
9 Reviews
Absolute Sanctuary
4
Absolute Sanctuary, Thailand
This stunning boutique wellness hotel, with its Mediterranean-inspired architecture, is a true paradise for yoga, detox, fitness, and Pilates enthusiasts. It is located on the tropical island of Koh Samui in Thailand.
18 Reviews
Shanti-Som
4
Shanti-Som, Spain
Capturing the beauty and serenity of Bali, right here at home. Welcome to Shanti-Som, where seclusion and intimacy invite self-discovery.
83 Reviews
Phuket Cleanse
3.5
Phuket Cleanse, Thailand
An intimate retreat in Phuket, where the pillars of raw food, a plethora of daily sports and yoga classes, meditation, workshops, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle converge. A warm and friendly environment is an integral part of the package!
2 Reviews
Revivo Wellness Resort
5
REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, Bali (Indonesia)
Excellent service and extremely professional holistic programmes based on Balinese traditions. A beautiful and intimate retreat in green surroundings creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.
10 Reviews
Palazzo di Varignana
4
Palazzo di Varignana, Italy
Experience 'La Dolce Vita' at this elegant Italian estate, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. The award-winning spa, named 'Best Italian Spa 2020,' makes it an ideal spot for both short getaways and extended wellness stays.
4 Reviews
Rimski Dvor
4
Rimski Dvor, Slovenia
Rimski Dvor in Rimske Terme offers a peaceful escape to a Roman-inspired paradise. Reconnect with nature, well-being, medical team and relaxation while indulging in healing waters and a perfect blend of tradition and modern comfort.
4 Reviews
Anantara Iko Mauritius Resorts & Villas
5
Anantara Iko Mauritius Resorts & Villas, Mauritius
Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas: Relax on a white sand beach, enjoy Thai, Ayurvedic, and local Mauritian spa treatments amidst tropical nature.
Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara
4
Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara, Sri Lanka
Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara offers a peaceful retreat, providing an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the attentive care of Ayurveda therapists.
18 Reviews
COMO Shambhala Estate
5
COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali (Indonesia)
Experience next-level personal attention at COMO Shambhala Estate, where you'll have your own personal assistant! The incredibly dedicated team is committed to making your stay the best it can be, ensuring an exclusive and exceptional experience.
9 Reviews
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary
5
Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand
An experience. Life changing. Unforgettable. Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary is all of this…and more. But words alone cannot describe Kamalaya. Kamalaya needs to be experienced.
146 Reviews
Park Igls
4
Park Igls Medical Spa Resort, Austria
Park Igls is a private medical spa located in the heart of Tyrol, Austria. One of the leading award-winning medical spas in Europe, with a focus on the Mayr approach for a healthier lifestyle.
17 Reviews
Alpino Atlantico - Galo Resort
4
Hotel Alpino Atlantico Ayurveda Cure Center, Madeira (Portugal)
Ayurveda at one of Madeira's most picturesque seaside resorts. Boutique-style Alpino Atlantico offers a blend of genuine treatments within a stunning environment.
27 Reviews
Vilalara Longevity Thalassa & Medical Spa
5
Vilalara Longevity Thalassa & Medical Spa, Portugal
Longevity Medical Spa not only provides expertly administered treatments under the supervision of specialists but also offers the ultimate luxurious five-star experience.
20 Reviews
Palasiet Thalasso Clinic & Hotel
4
Palasiet Thalasso Clinic & Hotel, Spain
A family-operated thalasso hotel located in a charming 19th-century villa by the beach, which is less than an hour's drive from the vibrant city of Valencia.
5 Reviews
OCEANO Health Spa Hotel
4
OCEANO Health Spa Hotel - Tenerife, Canary Islands
You are in excellent hands for a F. X. Mayr, Ayurveda or thalasso programme at the authentic family hotel, OCÉANO Health Spa Hotel
34 Reviews
Amatara Welleisure Resort
5
Amatara Welleisure Resort, Thailand
Wellness with a personal touch in an idyllic setting.
16 Reviews
Chiva-Som Health Resort
5
Chiva-Som International Health Resort, Thailand
One of the earliest destination spas globally, this 'Haven of Life' is truly remarkable and ranks among the most exquisite holistic resorts in Asia. It is a breathtaking retreat renowned for its exceptional quality.
8 Reviews
Zulal Wellness Resort
5
Zulal Wellness Resort, Qatar
The sustainable Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som combines Arabic hospitality and traditional Islamic medicine with the holistic philosophy of Chiva-Som, Thailand's internationally acclaimed Destination Spa.
3 Reviews
Villa Eden Leading Park Retreat
5
Villa Eden Leading Park Retreat, Italy
A 5 stars Small Luxury Hotel with prize-winning medical wellness centre (named winning Longevity and Beauty Centre). At Villa Eden The Leading Park Retreat, a truly personal approach goes hand-in-hand with excellent expert knowledge.
6 Reviews
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort
5
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, Sri Lanka
Experience the allure of a tropical island coupled with the luxurious 5-star wellness offered by Anantara Resorts.
8 Reviews
Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness
5
Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness, Mauritius
Luxury, 5* pamper resort by a white sand private beach on the Indian Ocean. The resort specialises in Ayurveda and holistic cure programmes.
Longevity Medical & Health Hotel
5
Longevity Medical & Health Hotel, Portugal
Longevity Health & Medical Hotel is an adults-only Destination Spa with a state-of-the-art wellness centre for preventative, medical and holistic wellbeing programmes in the heart of the Algarve.
14 Reviews
Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites
5
Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Portugal
Experience unparalleled luxury and comfort in an elegant hotel with a spa, situated on the longest beach in the Algarve.
9 Reviews
Epic Sana
5
Epic Sana, Portugal
Epic Sana is a stylish beachfront hotel on the stunning Algarve coast. Situated amidst pine forests, it's the perfect escape for relaxation and an invigorating beach and wellness holiday!
8 Reviews
Vichy Célestins Spa Hotel
5
Vichy Célestins Spa Hotel, Morocco
The Vichy Célestins Spa Hôtel has a new, ultra-modern holistic wellness clinic situated on 500 ha of land, offering superior care and pioneering technology in line with the five principles of Vichy: thalasso, weight loss, beauty, lifestyle and sport..
14 Reviews
Preidlhof
5
Preidlhof Luxury DolceVita Resort, Italy
Five-star hospitality and transformative wellness programs have earned Preidlhof numerous awards. Personal growth and being intensely pampered and enjoying oneself go hand in hand in this stunning environment.
4 Reviews
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda
5
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, Italy
Lefay Resort & Spa specializes in addressing typically Western issues such as stress and obesity through a classical Chinese medicine approach.
21 Reviews
Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa
5
Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa, Mauritius
A constantly sunny climate. Perfectly located right by the sea. Excellent wellness facilities. All make Shanti Maurice a wonderful wellness destination.
4 Reviews
MAYRLIFE
5
MAYRLIFE, Austria
MAYRLIFE Medical Health Resort combines modern medical expertise and technologies with the traditional Dr. F.X. Mayr method in a sporty location in the beautiful Austrian Alps.
4 Reviews
SHA Wellness Clinic
5
SHA Wellness Clinic, Spain
SHA Wellness Clinic seamlessly blends Eastern philosophies with Western perspectives on health and well-being within its luxurious and modern setting.
35 Reviews
Ananda in the Himalayas
5
Ananda in the Himalayas, India
Ananda in the Himalayas redefines the wellness experience, standing out as one of the premier destination spas globally. With a commitment to excellence, this retreat promises nothing but the finest in wellness and rejuvenation.
24 Reviews
SHA Wellness Clinic Mexico
5
SHA Wellness Clinic Mexico, Mexico
Brand new award-winning medical spa with an integrated approach - sister to the SHA Wellness Clinic in Spain - nestled in the tropical nature on the Caribbean coast of Mexico.
Chenot Palace Weggis
5
Chenot Palace Weggis, Switzerland
Chenot Palace Weggis is the brand new Chenot flagship in Switzerland. The Chenot Method is known worldwide for its medical detox programs where Western science and Eastern philosophy come together.
6 Reviews
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa
5
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa, Germany
A luxurious hotel exuding timeless elegance and grandeur, complemented by a state-of-the-art spa boasting contemporary finesse and cutting-edge amenities.
Palazzo Fiuggi
5
Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy
Palazzo Fiuggi is an ultra-luxurious medical spa offering tailor-made programs, thalassotherapy, and natural springs near Rome, along with a unique nutritional plan based on epigenetic science.
3 Reviews
RAKxa Integrative Wellness
5
RAKxa Integrative Wellness, Thailand
The RAKxa Integrative Wellness is the first sustainable, comprehensive Medical & Holistic retreat in Thailand. Amidst a lush green oasis, you work on your health under the guidance of experts at all levels. Rakxa's expertise: weight loss programs.
6 Reviews
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What is a detox

Detox, short for detoxification, is the process that aims to rid the body of toxins and harmful substances. It involves making lifestyle changes and adopting specific practices to support the body's natural detoxification systems.

Why Detox?

The primary goal of a detox is to eliminate accumulated toxins from the body, which may come from various sources such as environmental pollutants, processed foods, alcohol, drugs, medication or stress. By reducing exposure to toxins and supporting the body's natural detoxification mechanisms, a detox is believed to help restore balance, enhance vitality and promote overall health. A detox regimen encompasses various components such as detoxifying foods (juices, soups, salads, broths, and other light detox meals), yoga, meditation, walks, nutritional workshops, sauna sessions, massages (optional), and more. The rationale behind this approach is to give the digestive system a break from solid foods and flood the body with easily digestible nutrients, antioxidants and enzymes found in vegetables and fruit. 

Why is a cleanse once in a while so beneficial? 

The body has its natural detoxification mechanisms through organs like the liver, kidneys and lymphatic system. These organs work continuously to eliminate waste and toxins from the body. Doing a cleanse or a detox may enhance the body's natural detoxification processes. It gives the body a nutrient boost as detox meals and juices can provide a concentrated source of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. A detox will reduce the digestive load as detox meals are easier to digest than processed or solid foods, allowing the digestive system to rest and redirect its energy towards the detoxification process. Detox meals and detox juices can help keep the body hydrated. Some people use a cleanse as a kickstart to healthier eating habits, with the intention of continuing a more balanced diet after the cleanse.

It is important to say that a detox is not a long-term solution. Extreme or prolonged juice cleanses may lead to nutrient deficiencies and may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions or dietary restrictions. 

The Benefits of a detox or cleanse 

We listed some of the advantages of a detox 

  • Elimination of Toxins: Detox holidays typically involve a specialized diet, fasting and cleansing practices that help flush out toxins from the body. This process can lead to improved digestion and better nutrient absorption. 
  • Increased Energy: As toxins are eliminated, and the body is nourished with nutrient-dense foods, energy levels tend to increase. You will feel more vibrant and alert during and after a detox holiday.
  • Weight Loss: Detox programs often result in weight loss, as they focus on eliminating processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats.The weight loss is temporary as it is mainly water and toxines you lose, instead of fat. 
  • Improved Skin Health: Detoxing can lead to clearer, glowing skin, as it helps eliminate impurities.
  • Enhanced Mental Clarity: Detox holidays often include mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga, which can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity and focus.
  • Boosted Immune System: A healthy detox can strengthen the immune system by promoting the intake of immune-boosting foods and reducing the load on your organs.
  • Reduced Inflammation: Many detox programs focus on anti-inflammatory foods and practices, which can help alleviate chronic inflammation.
  • Rejuvenation and Relaxation: Detox retreats often include spa treatments, massages and other relaxation therapies.
  • Healthy Habits and lifestyle: Detox holidays can inspire you to adopt healthier lifestyle habits, including mindful eating, regular exercise and stress management techniques. 

Various ways to detox - which suits you?

There are various types of detox holidays or retreats that you can choose based on your preferences, goals and health needs. We listed some detox retreats, each with their own strength:

  • Juice Cleanse. Consuming only fresh fruit and vegetable juices for a certain period. The aim is to give the digestive system a break while flooding the body with nutrients. Juices are made of vegetables and fruits that are known to help eliminate toxins and cleanse the gut, such as spinach, carrots, lemon or celery, just to name some. To support the detoxification process, nutritional supplements can be added.
  • Detox with light meals. During this mild detox programme, you’ll eat light, fresh food prepared with ingredients that promote cleansing within the body such as soups, salads, rice and other easy to digest foods. 
  • Mayr Detox. The Mayr detox, based on the principles of Austrian physician Dr. Franz Xaver Mayr, is all about the guts and the digestive system, including support of the liver function. It involves a specialized diet that emphasizes slow eating, thorough chewing and simple, easily digestible foods. It is combined with abdominal treatments, such as abdominal massages or castor oil compresses, to stimulate the gut and aid detoxification. 
  • Buchinger Fast.The Buchinger fast, also known as the Buchinger method, is a therapeutic fasting approach developed by Dr. Otto Buchinger. It involves abstaining from solid food and consuming only vegetable broths, herbal teas and fruit juices for a specific period. The fast aims to promote detoxification, rest the digestive system, and activate the body's self-healing processes.
  • Ayurvedic Detox. Ayurvedic detox focuses on balancing the body's doshas through a combination of specialized diets, herbal treatments, and yoga practices.
  • Raw Food Detox. Raw food detox retreats focus on consuming uncooked, plant-based foods, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds. These are nutrient-rich meals that are easy on the digestive system. In their raw state, these foods contain nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that normally - through the heating process - get lost. These nutrients protect your body from toxins and support cell renewal. A Raw food detox is an ideal start to a healthy lifestyle.

Elements and therapies within a detox programme

During a detoxification retreat, a range of activities and treatments can be integrated to optimize the cleansing and rejuvenation process. The specific components and therapies will vary based on your chosen program.

Nutrition

  • Detox meals / detox juices: Vegetables and fruits that stimulate detoxification, such as greens, spinach, broccoli, avocado, apple, berries, etc.
  • Light detox meals: Easily digestible foods that are rich in nutrients, fiber and water to support the body in the detoxification process. Some examples of light detox meals are green smoothies, quinoa salad, steamed vegetables, or vegetable soup. Refined carbohydrates, processed foods, coffee, and alcohol are avoided.
  • Drinking plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water, herbal tea, and broth aids in flushing out toxins. Depending on your weight, aim to drink about 2 to 3 liters of water or light herbal tea per day.

Therapies and treatments

  • Massage Therapy: Massage can stimulate the lymphatic system and circulation, facilitating the removal of toxins from the body.
  • Colon Hydrotherapy: Colon hydrotherapy or colon cleansing treatments can help remove waste and toxins from the colon.
  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture may aid in balancing the body's energy and supporting detoxification.
  • Spa Treatments: Additional spa treatments like body scrubs, facials or body wraps with algae.

Supplements

  • Herbal Supplements: Some detox retreats may offer herbal supplements or teas that support liver function.

Light exercise

  • Yoga and Meditation: Practicing yoga and meditation can promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support mental and emotional detoxification.
  • Nature Walks and Hiking: Spending time in nature and engaging in physical activities like hiking can promote overall well-being and help clear the mind.

Other activities

  • Nutrition Workshops: Educational workshops on nutrition and healthy eating which will help to continue healthy habits post-retreat.
  • Sauna or Steam Room Sessions: Saunas and steam rooms help in sweating, which aids in eliminating toxins through the skin.
  • Digital Detox: Disconnect from electronic devices during the retreat can support your mental detoxification and reduce stress.
  • Mindfulness Practices: Including mindfulness exercises and stress-reduction techniques can further support the body's detoxification process.

Methods of colon hydrotherapy (or colon cleanse):

  • Colon Hydrotherapy (Colonic Irrigation): This involves the introduction of warm water into the colon through a tube inserted into the rectum. The water helps to soften and flush out waste material and toxins from the colon. The procedure is typically performed by a trained therapist.
  • Enema: An enema involves introducing a liquid (usually water or a saline solution) into the rectum using a tube or nozzle. Enemas are often used to relieve constipation or prepare for medical procedures.
  • Herbal Colon Cleanse: This ayurveda approach involves using herbal supplements or teas to promote bowel movements and cleanse the colon. Some herbal blends are designed to stimulate digestion and eliminate waste.
  • Coffee Enema: Some detox programs include coffee enemas, where a coffee solution is introduced into the colon. Advocates claim it helps stimulate bile production and liver detoxification.

When is a Detox not recommended

Detoxing may not be advisable for you when you have underlying health issues such as diabetes, heart problems, kidney disorders, or during pregnancy. Additionally, if you are on specific medication or you have a history of eating disorders, detoxing could pose risks. Prior to selecting a detox holiday, it is crucial to take into account your health status, dietary inclinations and goals. If you have any existing medical conditions, it is recommended to seek advice from your GP or healthcare expert.

What to expect on a weight loss holiday? 

Weight loss holidays, also known as weight loss retreats or weight loss vacations, are wellbeing programs designed to help you achieve your weight loss goals while enjoying a rejuvenating and immersive experience. These programs are offered at Health & Wellbeing resorts, medical spas or spa destinations, and they combine elements of sport/exercise/fitness, healthy food, mindfulness activities, workshops and spa treatments.

Beyond short-term weight loss, these programs emphasize the importance of long-term lifestyle changes. Combining weight loss with a vacation experience can make your journey more enjoyable and memorable. You get to explore a new destination while prioritizing your health. 

We have listed the elements that could be included in a a weight loss programme:

(Side note: each element of a weight loss holiday or retreat can vary depending on program and destination).  

  • Nutritional guidance: Nutrition is a fundamental component. Weight loss is mostly about your meals, a healthy and nutritious diet. You will be guided on healthy eating habits and portion control. There are many concepts of diets and it is important to find out what works best for your body.  
  • Sport/exercise/fitness: Exercise and physical activities, such as yoga, Pilates, hiking, muscle training or cardio workouts are central to weight loss holidays. It will help you to burn calories, build muscle and improve your next fitness levels. A weight loss holidays include various sport, fitness and exercise elements. 
  • Tailored programs: Programs are often personalized to meet your goals, needs, challenges and fitness level. Whether you are looking to lose a few kilos or you embark on a significant weight loss journey, each program will be adapted to your needs accordingly. 
  • Holistic / Medical supervision: Weight loss holidays can take a holistic or medical supervision or a blend of those two. The holistic approach is to look at all aspects of a human: body, mind & soul. A naturopath or holistic therapist will look more in depth how your mental and stress levels have contributed to weight gain (emotional, stress or hormone imbalances). Some weight loss retreats offer medical supervision, especially good for those who have specific medical conditions. Some offer a blend of those, e.g. testing your hormone levels, thyroid function, your cortisol or any other facts about your body.  
  • Spa and relaxation: Stress has a big impact on weight gain. Cortisol holds on to fat. Many weight loss retreats offer spa treatments and relaxation activities to help you unwind and reduce stress, which will help you in your weight loss success. 
  • Mindfulness and stress reduction: Weight loss is not only about physical activity and diet. It also involves managing stress and emotional well-being. Mindfulness practices, meditation, and stress-reduction techniques are often part of the program. Reducing stress is essential for successful weight loss. 
  • Education and workshops: During a weight loss program, the hotel or retreat can offer workshops or educational sessions to learn about sustainable weight management, how to make healthy food choices, how to prepare healthy dishes and how to incorporate fitness into your daily live.  
  • Supportive environment: Being away from home and being surrounded by like-minded people with similar goals can be motivating. Weight loss holidays often provide a supportive environment where you can share your experiences and challenges. 
  • Duration: Weight loss holidays can vary in duration, ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the program. 
  • A reset in lifestyle: Weight loss holidays are not just short-term weight loss, but could be a great (re) start of a healthy lifestyle. It will offer tools, knowledge and skills needed to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle after returning home. 
  • Individual coaching: Some weight loss holidays include one-on-one coaching or counseling sessions to address challenges such as emotional eating, how to lower your stress levels etc.  

Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any significant weight loss program is advisable, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.

Ask our team

Our team of well-being travel experts is dedicated to providing guidance and assisting you in discovering your ideal detox or Weight Loss holiday destination. We are here to offer advice, ensuring that your journey towards well-being aligns perfectly with your preferences and aspirations.