Aelia Wellness Retreat is the eudaimonia oasis you’ve been looking for; a place where your soul re-energizes and your mind rejuvenates – the perfect retreat from your daily grind or busy holiday itinerary.

For many of us, the stressors of daily life can be rather overwhelming at times. And, in our constant search for peace and happiness, we realize that the journey begins within.

It’s no secret that if we want to live a long, happy and healthy life, we need to take care of ourselves, both mentally and physically. Right now is the very best time to get into shape, and build healthier, more sustainable habits and routines.

If this rings true, then Aelia Wellness Retreat is the getaway you’ve been looking for. This lovely retreat is a real gem, with so much to offer anyone who is in search of holistic healing and a renewed sense of wellbeing.

The COVID-19 Impact

With the ever-present pandemic, relentless lockdowns and self-isolation, it’s no surprise that many people fell into a state of mental and physical decay. In one way or another, COVID-19 has turned all our lives upside down and left the entire globe reeling for a revived sense of “health and wellness”.

More and more people, from all walks of life, are adopting healthier diets, workout regimes and finally taking mental health seriously. This increased sensitivity to mental and physical health has fueled the wellness industry into overdrive and helped to spark a positive trend.

Online classes and workshops have become super popular and have cemented their place in the online wellness industry. A quick search on Google or YouTube will result in a multitude of live and on-demand training videos focused around yoga, reiki, guided meditations, life coaching, counselling and Ayurveda consultations.

There is at least one positive side to the pandemic – an incresing number of people are starting to prioritise their health and are seeking professional advice to support their mental and physical wellness.

This new trend is encouraging and ultimately very positive. Still, nothing really compares to in-person classes and the personal touch that comes with face-to-face interactions and social connections.

Welcome to Aelia Wellness Retreat

The word “Aelia” comes from the ancient Greek word “hēlios” which means “sun”, “sunlight” or “sunshine”. The sun is one of the most basic symbols of life itself, it’s been around since the dawn of man and will be around for eternity. A rising sun symbolises new beginnings, the halo around the midday sun signifies a strong ongoing bond, and a setting sun expresses a warm feeling of satisfaction.

Situated in a serene rural setting in the Tseri district, Aelia Wellness Retreat is only a 30-minute drive from the city centre of Nicosia, or from Larnaca International Airport. The wellness retreat is ideally located for easy weekend getaways or the occasional after-work massage.

Design and Decor

Arriving at Aelia Wellness Retreat, we couldn’t help but notice the stunning natural beauty that envelopes the entire retreat. Walking from the car park to the reception we had already spotted a few cleverly designed public areas that lend to the tranquil surroundings we were looking for.

The sustainable and eco-minded design of the main building offers the opportunity to explore different environments while still feeling connected to nature. A creative way to blend nature’s wonderland and luxury urban landscapes, all set in peaceful Mediterranean gardens, nestled in the Cypriot countryside.

Moving towards the reception, we walked through a striking corridor laid with a thick rope that creates a shaded tunnel – a very smart and natural alternative to metals or wood. What I absolutely love about this design is the soft natural light that filters through the ropes, creating a gentle and subtle atmosphere.

Throughout the public areas and in the rooms we had often commented on the tasteful decor and remarkable use of natural elements and indoor plants. Everything feels cosy, light and unpretentious – we felt at home.

The Lobby

Inside the main building, we found the atrium (or lobby) to be a stunning place to chill and sip our afternoon tea and pre-dinner aperitif. In this area, there are several individually decorated seating areas, or lounges, that are very comfy and offer some level of privacy. This, coupled with the natural light that flows through the louvred ceiling, is simply heavenly.

The various seating areas, or lounges, are spaced out on a raised deck. There is a slow-flowing creek with water gently trickling below your feet. Sitting back in one of the comfortable sofas, we hear the sound of water trickling below, relaxation starts to kick in and we finally start to unwind.

The wellness retreat is ideally located for easy weekend getaways or the occasional after-work massage.

Each outdoor location has its own mood and atmosphere, where guests are invited to find harmony and enjoy the lush aromatic gardens! The outdoor areas are vast and lush with wild sage, lavender and olive trees.

The Rooms

Arriving at the hotel, we were welcomed by a friendly and professional receptionist and immediately started feeling the energy of the place. The check-in procedure was quick and easy.

The receptionist offered to show us to our room and, as we followed her through the beautifully decorated lobby and public areas, past the spa and the dining room, we started to feel at home.

Entering the room, the door opens and as we walk in our eyes gaze around the room. I immediately notice the beautiful natural light beaming through the large sliding doors which open onto the gardens. The large bed is laid with luxury white linen and oversized pillows. The bathroom is somewhat open plan with the hand basins shielded by a rope-style shade acting as a divider.

The room is a nice size and offers all the amenities you would expect in a property of this nature. There is a TV (if you’re into that), minibar drinks and snacks, a detailed room directory, restaurant menus and telephone. The bathroom is loaded with all the usual shampoos, body creams and conditioner. Not to mention the branded slippers and a matching set of his and hers bathrobes.

We absolutely loved the room. It was comfortable, functional and offered many little finer touches like the “king and queen” bathrobe hangers and the healthy snacks in the minibar. Not to mention the bed was incredibly comfortable which allowed us the best night of sleep we’d had in a long time.

The Restaurant

The hotel restaurant is nestled discreetly in the Mediterranean garden, in between the olive trees, sage, lavender and rosemary bushes. A distinct bohemian decor is fresh and light which lends to the casual, inviting and light atmosphere. The bar area is lovely and even though this is a wellness retreat, they are fully stocked. They offer a complete range of drinks as well as local and international wines.

If you didn’t already know, restaurants are my “thing”. I’m a career foodie and particularly passionate about fine food, wine and restaurant service. Needless to say, I am meticulous when it comes to reviewing a restaurant.

Read my article and review about the The Gym Restaurant in Old Town Nicosia.
The Gym Concept – An authentic culinary discovery in Old Town Nicosia

We had booked a table for dinner and were surprised once again to find their menu full of delicious options. There is a vast offering with options for every palate, with dishes including vegetarian pasta, salads as well as a great selection of cooked meat and fish dishes.

Our server was friendly and guided us through the evening as we enjoyed our dinner and wine.

For me, breakfast was the main event. The breakfast buffet boasted an incredible array of healthy options. Over and above the hot cooked breakfast, there was a full selection of cereals, nuts, dried fruits and yoghurts. The side options were equally welcome with fresh farm honey, jams, and compotes.

I personally love avocado, smashed with a little lemon and salt, spread on my toast in the morning. I’m in heaven. Aelia breakfast nailed it!!

The Cocoon Spa

The Cocoon Spa offers wellness-oriented treatments and rituals, with a soothing, restorative and revitalizing vocation. They’re using only the finest products to cater to each individual’s needs.

Early on in my hospitality career, I had the pleasure of working in a 5-star luxury spa retreat. This experience opened my mind to the world of decadent luxury and the spa culture. It was not long before I developed an obsession with full-body massages and salt scrubs, Indian head massages and facials. Why are more men not doing this? I still don’t understand the reluctance…

Decadent indulgences aside, during my time there I learnt so much about the spa industry. I became accustomed to the various treatments, massages and rituals. And, of course, the high level of hospitality that goes hand in hand with this type of establishment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Aelia Wellness Retreat (@aeliawellness)

The spa industry has, and will always play a big role in the wellness industry. The offering, when done right, offers a sense of peace and harmony that is almost impossible to replicate at home.

After a good full-body massage or a relaxing facial, you feel as though you’ve been reborn, or just woken from a 10-hour nap. All this is achieved in just 60 minutes.

The management of Aelia Wellness Retreat takes great pride in their selection of the multi-award-winning aromatherapy product range. These harnesses the natural healing powers of the finest natural ingredients, purest extracts and essential oils. Combined with their extensive experience as therapists they know first-hand how essential oils can enhance physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

You can download their Spa Menu here and browse through the various packages that they offer.

The Gym

I’ve personally stayed in hundreds of hotels, and if you’re a traveller, you’ll agree that hotel gyms are often a fail. They are often poorly maintained and not at all aesthetically pleasing. This Aelia gym however is the complete opposite.

Just below the spa area, you’ll find the gym. Descending a few steps into the basement, I was sceptical about what we may find. Ultimately we were very surprised to see how beautiful and well equipped the gym was.

The gym has an industrial feel to it, with wood, steel and concrete being the main elements. The space feels almost like a mini cross-fit gym complemented with a complete set of high-tech and modern cardio machines. There are loose weights, kettlebells, dumbells, barbells and plates; you will also find machines such as the cable crossover, lat and tricep pull down, smiths machine and punching bag.

Besides being a super functional hotel gym, this is possibly the most Instagramable gym we’ve seen.

Programmes and Packages

One of the very interesting things about Aelia is that they arrange bespoke programmes depending on your needs. They offer retreats and accommodation packages that include various treatments, rituals, detoxes and even dietary consulting.

Anti-stress programme: This is a package that is put together to cure you of any undue stress, anxiety and general fatigue.

Ultimate Relaxation Package: Reclaim your health and wellbeing. A getaway designed for anyone with a troubled mind and who needs to restore health and energy in the body.

Blissful couples programme: Share the ultimate romantic getaway with your better half. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with your partner. Embark on a journey filled with relaxation that will leave you b both feeling truly spoiled and revitalised.

Detoxifying programme: Purify your system holistically and make you feel active. Here you will enjoy rituals incorporating detoxifying techniques, which will rebalance your internal systems and improve your quality of life.

Other programmes include sleep recovery programme, brainpower programme, beautify programme, friends escape, re-energising and the weight control programme, among others.

Wellness Services

As a complement to the already generous offering at Aelia, you will also find their wellness services. These services are targeted at those who wish to take their well-being to the next level.

Take a yoga class, learn breathing techniques like pranayama or follow guided meditations. Learn about healthy nutrition or take cooking lessons and explore the art of healthy cooking. The property also has a library, offers family yoga classes and can arrange counselling sessions for those with more pressing emotional needs.

Is a Wellness Retreat Right For Me?

Chances are, if you’re reading this article and made it to the end, you’ve thought about visiting a retreat. Perhaps you already know that you need to make some changes in your life. You need to re-balance your physical and mental wellness.

So how do we balance our physical and mental wellness, and how do we take the first step? Like with anything in life, the first step always starts by making a conscious decision that something needs to change. Then, establish your goal and plan out the steps that will get you to your goal. Finally, seek support and guidance from others to reduce the learning curve and help to keep you on track.

I am someone who has suffered through mental, and emotional trauma at various stages of my life. I’ve come to learn that seeking advice and support from others is key to your healing. For me, finding a balance between my diet, my physical wellbeing and mental wellness was pivotal in my journey to happiness.

What is Physical and Mental Wellness?

Physical wellbeing is defined as the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life. This allows us to get the most out of our daily activities without undue fatigue or physical stress.

If there’s one thing that COVID has taught us, it’s that we should not confuse fitness and wellbeing. To achieve physical wellbeing it is not necessary to run 5km on the treadmill every day. You don’t need to suffer through countless burpees, squats or lunges either. We are not training for a triathlon, we just need to be healthy.

Mental wellness comes from feeling balanced, connected to others and ready to meet life’s challenges. Mental wellness goes hand-in-hand with physical health. When you eat well, get enough sleep and stay active, your emotional health can improve.

This journey takes us down a long and confusing path that is at times very difficult to navigate. That’s why places like Aelia Wellness Retreat exist. Spending a week in the retreat can help you to rebalance your mind, body and soul. Helping you regain control over your life. Walk away with a better understanding of yourself. How to fuel your body, how to move and keep your body and mind healthy. Learn skills such as healthy cooking, yoga and meditation. Or various other holistic practices that you can incorporate into your daily life.

Mental wellness is a positive state of mental health. It is more than the absence of mental illness.

Attend a retreat and book a wellness package, this can help to align your mind, body and soul. All it takes is a few days to reset your bad habits. So get your own personal wellness journey back on track.

Pro Traveler Tips

• Book direct – in post-covid travel we try to support our local hotels and guesthouses. Try to avoid booking sites and booking direct with the property.
• When booking a wellness retreat, be sure to call or email ahead of time. You can book your spa treatments or packages.
• Find out if you need to bring your own yoga mats, bolsters or blocks. I generally always take my own mat anyway. This can usually be a hassle to travel with, especially on long-haul international flights.
• Always let the hotel/retreat or resort know if you have any specific dietary requirements. For the most part, the chef will gladly go out of their way to cater for your needs. It’s just courteous to let them know in advance.
• Always find out first if the property is child-friendly. Often these retreats are adults-only to ensure all guests are able to relaxt and take in the tranquility.

Visit my Instagram to view all the stories I shared during our stay.