Inside Central Saint Martins 2025

By now, we all know someone who got engaged with a lab-grown diamond and whispered it like a secret. The implication being: it’s sparkly, sustainable, and (gasp) affordable. But in 2025, lab-grown diamonds are no longer a budget compromise—they’re a conscious luxury. And frankly, they’re everywhere. The science is impressive, yes, but the style is what’s truly worth noting. These diamonds are chemically identical to their earth-mined counterparts and, to the naked eye, just as radiant. The difference? No mining. No guilt. And often, no five-figure price tags. So if you’ve been eyeing that 1.5 carat for your right hand (or left), now’s the time. But not all lab-grown diamond retailers are created equal. Some focus on bridal; others are reimagining fine jewelry entirely, giving it a Gen Z glow-up. Below, I’ve rounded up the seven best brands making seriously beautiful things—with integrity, polish, and just the right amount of sparkle. Whether you're planning a proposal or just feel like rewarding yourself for surviving Q3, these are the brands worth knowing. Blue Nile Gorgeous Pieces From a Trusted Retailer Price range: £150 to £11,000 Shipping: Free 2-day shipping Returns: 30-day return policy Extras: Free ring resizing (1 year), polishing + prong inspection every 6 months Blue Nile is the lab-grown equivalent of that friend who always makes the reservation, always looks polished, and always knows the wine list. The brand has been around for over 20 years and recently stepped into the lab-grown category with the quiet confidence of a seasoned gem dealer. Their diamonds are GIA-analyzed, their prices are refreshingly transparent, and their customer service has a touch of old-school luxury (hello, complimentary resizing and six-month check-ins). What sets Blue Nile apart is its mix of quality and customization. You can build your own ring, yes, but you can also pick up a pair of Round Brilliant Stud Earrings that look like you just got a promotion at LVMH. I’m partial to their Scalloped Pavé Diamond Ring for engagements and their Lab-Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelet for everything else—birthdays, breakups, or simply Tuesday. VRAI Modern Designs Made With Renewable Energy Price range: $150 to $20,000+ Origin: Zero-emission diamonds grown in the U.S. Style vibe: Architectural, understated, ultra-wearable Owned by Leonardo DiCaprio (yes, that Leonardo), VRAI is the brand for people who want their jewelry to say “I care about the planet, but also love a good stack.” All diamonds are created in a zero-emission foundry using hydropower, making them as eco-friendly as they are Instagrammable. The aesthetic? Think sculptural meets minimalism—less red carpet, more Architectural Digest meets Glossier HQ. Highlights include the Knife-Edge Bezel Ring and the Tennis Bracelet that looks just as chic with tailoring as it does with vintage Levi’s. If you want your diamonds with a side of design philosophy, this is your brand. Astrea London High Jewellery That Just Happens to Be Lab-Grown Price range: From £3,000, bespoke high-end Flagship: Fairmont Windsor Park Diamond grade: D and E colour only – the top 1% globally Astrea London is where lab-grown diamonds meet high jewellery fantasy. If most lab-grown brands aim for wearability, Astrea leans unapologetically into glamour—the kind that deserves velvet ring boxes, private fittings, and maybe a vintage Bentley waiting outside. Their pieces are striking, sculptural, and often feel more suited to a Bond Street showcase than an algorithm-friendly grid. Every stone is D or E colour , placing them at the very top of the diamond spectrum—and it shows. There’s a kind of light only these stones catch, that quiet sparkle you notice mid-conversation or across the dinner table. It’s jewellery made to be remembered. Whether you’re shopping for a showstopper engagement ring or a signature piece that says main character , Astrea delivers a sense of drama with a conscience. No mining, no compromise—just brilliance, expertly cut. Kimaï Made-to-Order Diamonds with Serious Style Cred Price range: £200 to £5,000+ Ethics: Lab-grown diamonds, recycled gold, made-to-order production USP: Personalised luxury with cult appeal If you’ve ever wondered where the cool fashion girls are getting their diamonds—spoiler alert—it’s Kimaï . Founded by two childhood friends from Antwerp (read: diamond capital of the world), the brand has quickly become a favourite among the style set for its lab-grown diamonds, made-to-order production model, and conscious materials. Everything is crafted just for you, which not only cuts waste but makes the whole experience feel more personal. The customer service is practically concierge-level, and you’re kept in the loop from the moment you hit "order" to the moment you slip that forever piece onto your hand (or neck, or ear). The aesthetic is where Kimaï really shines. You’ll find whisper-thin gold chains with dainty diamonds that look like they’re floating on your décolletage, alongside bold dome rings and chunky huggies that strike the perfect balance between timeless and trend-aware. It’s polished, yes, but never boring—and always Instagrammable in that understated, “just threw this on” kind of way. Matilde Sustainable Sparkle You’ll Actually Wear Every Day Price range: £100 to £2,500 Ethics: Lab-grown diamonds, recycled gold, carbon-neutral Style mood: Understated elegance meets modern heirloom If you’re the kind of person who wants your jewelry to whisper rather than shout, Matilde is the brand for you. A sustainable and ethical alternative to flashier names, this London-based label (founded by Matilde Mourinho, yes, that Mourinho) has quietly become the go-to for beautifully made, wear-it-forever pieces. There is quite literally not a single item in the collection we wouldn’t be thrilled to receive in a little velvet box. The Cluster Ring is a standout—modern, delicate, and a brilliant option for low-key brides-to-be. Then there’s the Chuva Necklace , a fine gold chain subtly interrupted by one perfectly-placed lab-grown diamond. It's the kind of piece that turns a crisp white shirt into a look . Matilde’s designs are less about trends and more about permanence—the jewelry equivalent of a really good linen blazer or a cashmere scarf you stole from your mother. Chic, ethical, and designed to be worn on repeat. Mejuri Minimalist Cool With A Grown-Up Shine Price range: from £150 Lab-grown collection: Recently expanded Design ethos: Everyday luxury, curated and clean You might know Canadian favourite, Mejuri , for their signature everyday pieces—like their near-perfect mid-sized hoops (literally the best hoops you’ll ever wear) and the cult-favourite croissant-shaped Charlotte Rings that have practically earned icon status. But it’s well worth digging into their growing lab-grown diamond collection , which is quietly redefining what “fine jewelry” looks like in 2025. Expect timeless silhouettes with a twist: tennis bracelets that feel a little chunkier (read: cooler) than your average, pavé rings that stack like they were made for it, and the Zig-Zag Diamond Ring —a playful, off-beat piece that reads both modern and heirloom-y, depending on how you wear it. The vibe is refined but unfussy, the kind of sparkle you don’t need a dress code for. Which, frankly, is the whole point. Grown Brilliance Big Looks Without the Big Price Tag Price range: £200 to £20,000 Style focus: Maximalist sparkle Perks: Frequent sales and financing options If you want the look of a 3-carat without needing a new credit limit, Grown Brilliance delivers. The pieces are bold, shiny, and designed for those who want the drama. Their Hidden Halo Oval Ring is a fan-favourite, and they offer one of the most extensive collections of lab-grown bridal and fashion jewelry online. Grown Brilliance also partners with designers (like Badgley Mischka), giving their collection a red carpet vibe that’s still wearable. Think big studs, bold solitaires, and a pricing structure that doesn’t make you flinch. Brilliant Earth Design-Your-Own With Ethics Built In Price range: £300 to £25,000+ Custom services: Bespoke design studio Ethics: Climate-neutral, responsibly sourced materials Brilliant Earth is like the Everlane of fine jewelry—transparent, clean, and highly clickable. They let you build your own ring down to the last detail, and the site’s user interface is better than most fashion retailers, which is saying something. Every diamond is traceable, and the brand puts sustainability at the forefront of its sourcing and packaging. Whether you want an Art Deco-inspired emerald cut or a halo that’s visible from space, Brilliant Earth can make it happen. Bonus: they now offer showroom appointments, so you can try things on before you commit.

There’s something delightfully disorienting about watching a pop star catapult from support act to centre stage in just two short years. Sabrina Carpenter did exactly that. In 2023, she was the sweet, slightly mysterious opening act for Blackpink at BST Hyde Park. Fast-forward to July 2025, and she returned to the very same park with two sold-out headline nights of her own. Think less warm-up, more main event—with fireworks, a platform that glides above thousands, and a glittering red leotard to remind you who’s running the show. If Hyde Park had a roof, Sabrina Carpenter would have blown it off. The Saturday crowd didn’t care that the sun was hiding. The queues were long, the humidity persistent, and there were umbrellas (and hair ties) everywhere—but the energy? Impeccable. She opened with Busy Woman , stomping onto her signature white stage that looked more Manhattan nightclub than festival turf. The glitzy ‘SC’ signage above her pulsed like a luxury perfume ad, while her 12-person dance crew added pure Broadway-meets-pop flair. Somewhere between Good Graces and Slim Pickins , Sabrina tossed back a shot delivered on a silver tray (cue a thousand TikToks). Intermittent 1950s-style commercials flickered on the big screens, giving the whole show a sort of retro-luxury kitsch—part Lana Del Rey, part Barbiecore. When she introduced Sharpest Tool as “a song that is very important to me,” it was one of the night’s rare quieter moments, a pivot from polished performance to pop therapy. But in true Sabrina fashion, the mood whiplashed—in the best way—just minutes later. Introducing her new single Manchild , she teased the famously mercurial London crowd: “When I heard I was going to play Hyde Park… the first thing I did was look at the weather app. Because you guys are shady here.” That segued—naturally—into a full-throttle cover of It’s Raining Men , complete with thunderclaps and a healthy wink to the heavens. And if that wasn’t theatrical enough, a mid-show outfit change brought out a sparkly black slip dress and matching bra, as Sabrina performed Bed Chem atop a circular bed draped in white satin. Fans screamed. Phones rose. Pink handcuffs were tossed to the crowd. A dedication for Juno . A whispered Please, Please, Please . And then—just as she had inched into pop superstardom—she literally levitated. Hovering above the crowd on a crane-operated platform, Sabrina looked down and declared, “Smile! You’re on camera!” before launching into Don’t Smile with intimate eye contact that no doubt birthed a hundred parasocial relationships. By the time she reached Espresso , drink in hand, fireworks erupted behind her. “The louder you scream, the more I drink,” she said, espresso glass raised. And scream they did. The Line-up: From Clairo’s Cinematic Set to Amber Mark’s Dancefloor Sermon Carpenter may have been the headliner, but BST Hyde Park was anything but a one-woman show. Before the glitter cannons and crane lifts, Clairo—everyone’s favourite Gen-Z introvert—took the stage with a show that felt more arthouse than arena. Accompanied by a band that moonlighted as a mini orchestra (sax, flute, organs—the works), she glided through Glasses , Softly and Flaming Hot with moody precision. “This is really sexy, it’s crazy!” she laughed mid-set. For Clairo, it was practically a mic drop. Beabadoobee delivered a typically cool-girl performance, dressed in a tee with the word “SEX” in bubblegum pink. “I wore this top especially for Sabrina,” she teased, drawing 65,000 people into her hazy, grunge-pop orbit with Perfect Pair , Charlie Brown , and Real Man . Consider the crossover crowd: Swifties, 1975 fans, and every indie kid who's ever shopped Depop. Amber Mark, meanwhile, brought the tempo up—way up. Part preacher, part dancefloor saviour, she worked the crowd like a veteran, belting out Mixer , Sink In , and Foreign Things with enough confidence to make anyone believe the Grammy’s actually mean something again. The Understated Stars of the Rainbow Stage Elsewhere, the Rainbow Stage became the weekend’s low-key goldmine. Luvcat, dressed in her signature leopard print, brought smoky jazz vocals and an undercurrent of gothic drama that somehow felt appropriate even in the middle of a London field. It felt a bit like stumbling into a speakeasy after getting lost in Shoreditch. SOFY—who was quick to clarify her only similarity to Carpenter was her height—proved otherwise. Her set, including Floating Forever and togethertogether , radiated effortless, shoulder-shimmying cool. Sola kicked things off with jazzy vocals and rich keyboard textures, while DellaXOZ—Bolton-born and Tumblr-coded—delivered a Gen-Z fever dream of a set, complete with tracks from The Della Variant and Dellairium . Earlier in the day, rising indie duo The Two Lips and the ethereal IDER set the tone. A Third Year at BST Hyde Park, A First-Class Experience This marks my third consecutive summer at BST Hyde Park, which feels increasingly like a pilgrimage for the fashion-forward, playlist-obsessed set. From Blackpink’s epic girl-power showcase in 2023 to this year’s short-and-sweet revolution led by Sabrina, the festival has quietly become one of the most style-savvy, emotionally satisfying events on the British calendar.

All-American pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo lit up BST Hyde Park on Friday night with a 19-song set and a surprise guest appearance from Ed Sheeran, all framed by a golden sunset that felt scripted just for her. Last night in Hyde Park, Olivia Rodrigo did what only a rarefied class of pop stars can do: made 65,000 people believe they were the only ones she was singing to. Her chain link tassels glittering against a technicolour sky, and a surprise guest that sent TikTok into cardiac arrest, the 22-year-old Grammy winner gave London the kind of night that lodges itself in the cultural memory—and stays there. BST Hyde Park is no stranger to once-in-a-generation headliners, but Rodrigo’s set felt unusually cinematic. Maybe it was the golden-hour sunset. Maybe it was the purple cowboy hats waving in rhythm with Driver’s License . Maybe it was Ed Sheeran, who casually walked out in jeans and a white tee to duet The A Team like it was open mic night. But by the time she whispered, “London, you’re my favourite city,” the audience already knew. Rodrigo’s BST debut was less concert, more coronation. And if you weren’t there, the scroll of social media the morning after read like a communal hangover from a dream no one wanted to wake up from. “This is like my dream gig!” she beamed, visibly overwhelmed by the sea of Gen Z superfans (and at least one very enthusiastic James Corden). Her setlist, a serotonin rush of heartbreak anthems and pop-punk scream-alongs, opened with Bad Idea Right and closed—after 90 relentless minutes—with Good 4 U and Get Him Back , fireworks in tow. But the moment that detonated X (formerly Twitter) came mid-show, when Rodrigo paused, grinned, and said, “I want to introduce one of my favourite Brits and one of the best songwriters of all time.” Out walked Sheeran. Cue hysteria. Even in a festival season defined by surprise pairings, this one hit different. The pairing made sense: two generational songwriters, both capable of reducing you to tears in four chords or less. But watching them strum The A Team together under the Hyde Park trees felt like watching a scene from a movie that already knows it’s going to win an Oscar. Elsewhere on the bill, BST proved again why it’s one of the most compelling summer festivals in the world. The Last Dinner Party, swathed in rococo drama and Roman columns, owned the stage with a set that included Mirror and Nothing Matters . girl in red, fresh from a deeply personal rehab journey, turned her trauma into triumph, debuting Hemingway with raw, devastating honesty. “I wasn’t going to live anymore,” she said at one point, before launching into the track that many fans are already calling her best yet. If Rodrigo gave us the anthem-heavy climax, it was flowerovlove who gave the visual gag of the afternoon, popping out of a giant white stiletto before launching into New Friends . Wearing a Harry Styles tee and zero pretence, she brought easy confidence and star quality that will likely land her a headline slot before long. Other early highlights included BETWEEN FRIENDS’ breezy California cool, Caity Baser’s turbo-charged girl-power pop, and Katie Gregson-MacLeod’s confessional lyricism (she spotted the subject of Guest List in the crowd and handled it with the kind of dry humour that only a Scottish TikTok star could pull off). Ruti, Déyyess, and Florence Road rounded out a day so packed with new-gen talent, you could practically feel Spotify’s algorithms recalibrating in real time. Rodrigo’s love letter to London was more than just a tour stop. It was a cultural checkpoint for the post-pandemic pop era, a celebration of vulnerability, camp, grit, glitter, and community. The crowd—one of the most emotionally literate in Hyde Park history—sang along to every word, cried on cue, and then cried again when it was over.

It was only a matter of time before Anthropologie took its free-spirited, citrus-scented dreamworld out of the shopping cart and into the bedroom—literally. The retailer has just teamed up with Locke, the design-minded aparthotel brand known for its influencer-adjacent interiors and portable co-working culture, to launch a shoppable suite in Lisbon. Because why just stay in a hotel when you could live in a content-ready Pinterest board? Enter the Locke x Anthropologie Suite at Locke de Santa Joana , the brand’s biggest property to date, which sits just off Lisbon’s Avenida da Liberdade like a boho-fabulous oasis for people who own more than one scented candle and have strong opinions about jute. The one-bedroom terrace suite—available for bookings through 30 September—comes wrapped in what Anthropologie is calling a Mediterranean makeover, though you could also file it under “elevated brunch-core.” Think: striped glass candle holders, juice glasses printed with fruit motifs, and an ‘al fresco in Positano’ colour palette that makes you want to order a €9 peach bellini and discuss your recent ceramic phase. Everything in the suite is for sale, of course—this is 2025, and brands don’t just create experiences anymore; they curate cartfuls. The bedding, the art, the plates, the outdoor furniture… if you like it, you can probably buy it, monogram it, and ship it home in time for your next garden dinner party. Featured items include the “Clara” mirror (for those post-shower selfies), the “Vela” jute rug (the aesthetic equivalent of a deep exhale), and a smattering of playful wall art featuring sardines, peaches, and shrimps, as if the entire room just came back from a beach market with too many tote bags. The hotel itself—Locke de Santa Joana—isn’t short on talking points either. Housed in a reimagined 17th-century convent, the 370-room destination is part design temple, part cultural playground, with a co-working space, restaurants, music venues, and a courtyard pool that looks genetically engineered for Instagram Stories. Interiors are the work of Spanish design darling Lázaro Rosa-Violán, who has artfully blended ecclesiastical bones with contemporary flair—though you’re unlikely to be thinking too hard about architectural legacy once you’re reclining poolside next to your “Lottie” side table sipping orange wine out of an Anthropologie ‘Icon’ glass. According to Locke brand manager Carla Read, the collaboration with Anthropologie was “instinctive,” which makes sense—both brands speak fluently in the language of aesthetic escapism. “We’re always looking for ways to bring our brand to life beyond the store,” Anthropologie’s Leanne Mascoll added. Translation: experiential retail is in its Lisbon era. So is this the future of travel? A hotel stay where every throw pillow is a potential purchase and your entire holiday becomes one long product demo? Possibly. But if you’re going to be seduced by consumerism, at least let it happen somewhere with a private terrace and a Portuguese seafood dinner set. This summer, Lisbon is selling a dream—and it’s got Anthropologie written all over it.

In Mayfair, where new-money opulence rubs shoulders with storied institutions, one private members' club has spent the past 90 years refusing to bow to trends—because it sets them. The Lansdowne Club, founded in 1935, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. And while its corridors have seen everything from political treaties to Gordon Selfridge’s legendary soirées, the club is proving that age is nothing if not an asset. Let’s begin with the address. You don’t casually wander into The Lansdowne Club. Housed in an 18th-century Grade II* listed mansion, this is the sort of building that feels like it should have its own National Trust plaque, velvet rope, and perhaps a butler. Designed by Robert Adam for a British Prime Minister—because of course it was—the building’s Georgian bones give way to a decadent Art Deco soul, complete with a 25-yard private swimming pool and a cocktail bar featuring a piano lifted from the RMS Queen Mary . You couldn’t make this up if you tried. But for all its grandeur, The Lansdowne Club has always been quietly radical. In 1935, it became the first private members’ club in London to admit men and women as equals, which was about as rebellious as wearing trousers to tea at Claridge’s. That spirit of inclusion lives on, though you’re still more likely to sip a gimlet than overhear a TikTok being filmed here. The Club is using its anniversary not to rest on laurels, but to give them a polish. A year-long programme of events is underway, beginning with a Literary Festival featuring Country Life Editor Mark Hedges in conversation with Club CEO David Herbert. (Expect plenty of discussion about ‘Girls in Pearls’, and not a whiff of irony.) There’s also a historic archive exhibition, white-tie gala, and a members-only trip to Sir John Soane’s Museum for an exclusive peek at Robert Adam’s original architectural drawings—because nothing says 2025 quite like ogling 18th-century blueprints with champagne in hand. Of course, nostalgia is best served with a forward-looking twist, and The Lansdowne Club is undergoing a sensitive refurbishment. Translation: the Art Deco stays, but the Wi-Fi won’t make you feel like it’s still 1935. “Our 90th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past, but a promise for the future,” said Herbert, whose tone suggests evolution without disruption. Which, if you’re a private club in Mayfair, is code for: We’ll stay elegant, but don’t expect the same threadbare carpets. Perhaps what sets Lansdowne apart, though, isn’t just its history or its charm (though there’s no shortage of either). It’s the refusal to fade into the background of London’s clubland arms race. Where other institutions are hiring brand consultants to make them seem cool, The Lansdowne Club is content to let its pedigree—and, let’s be honest, its swimming pool—do the talking. And if you’re lucky enough to get through the door, you’ll see why. After all, how many places in Mayfair can say they helped end the American War of Independence and host cats named after the Selfridges?

Luxury travel used to be about checking out. Room service. Rooftop pools. A good blowout before dinner. But in 2025, the most coveted form of escape is not indulgent, it’s intentional. Wellness has evolved from a nice-to-have amenity into the headline act, with a new wave of travel destinations designed not just to help you rest, but to fundamentally reset. We're not talking about the kind of wellness that comes in sachets or requires a matching activewear set. This is something deeper, and dare we say it - cooler. In the post-burnout, post-algorithm, post-almond-milk era, a new cultural obsession has emerged: feeling better . Not just thinner, not just cleaner, but clearer . The nervous system has replaced the six-pack as the modern status symbol. The new jet set isn't flying halfway across the world to party. They're flying to regulate. This shift has given rise to what can only be described as a wellness renaissance. A global rewilding of luxury hospitality. Here, the most sought-after experiences are those that blend ritual with design, stillness with stimulation, and local heritage with clinical-grade efficacy. Places that offer magnesium pools and custom Ayurvedic dosha menus alongside impeccable linens and sea views. Places that make you forget your phone, not because they ask you to, but because the outside world suddenly feels irrelevant. In a time when rest is political and silence is rare, wellness travel has become the ultimate luxury flex. And not in the old sense of excess, but in the new one of self-awareness. Whether it’s cryotherapy overlooking the Aegean, jungle yoga in Sri Lanka, or a seaweed massage in Sussex, the destinations in this new global circuit offer more than relaxation—they offer transformation. No juice cleanse required. Below, we chart the properties leading this shift. Some are remote and ritualistic. Others feel like you’re checking into your cooler, more self-possessed future self. All of them prove one thing: the future of travel isn’t about escape, it’s about returning home to yourself. Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, Italy If Nancy Meyers ever directed a wellness film, it would take place at Lefay Lago di Garda. Terraced above Italy’s most cinematic lake, the Lefay estate feels less like a hotel and more like a manifestation of someone’s post burnout fantasy. With an 11,000 square foot spa wrapped in panoramic glass and a menu of treatments that borrow from both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Italian phytotherapy, it’s no wonder this is the place Milanese executives vanish to when the Aperol runs dry. But what really distinguishes Lefay is its subtle, almost cinematic serenity, the way your nervous system exhales the moment you see that infinity pool slice into the sky. It doesn’t scream luxury, it stage whispers it. The rooms are wrapped in pale woods and linen, minimalist but tactile, like someone pressed pause on your life and hit play on a more elegant one. Detoxes here don’t feel punishing, they feel like gentle recalibrations, as if your body is being reminded of a rhythm it once knew. Daily programming includes Qi Gong at sunrise, olive oil body rituals, and breathing workshops held in front of Lake Garda’s light streaked surface. Even the cuisine feels rehabilitative: Mediterranean, yes, but stripped of excess, with saffron broth, steamed seabass, and fennel pollen from the hotel’s biodynamic garden. It’s a place where you don’t just recharge, you unlearn the need to constantly perform being well. Casa Yuma, Puerto Escondido, Mexico If Tulum is your ex who discovered breathwork and got annoying, Puerto Escondido is her cooler cousin who quietly built a yoga deck by the ocean and never posted about it. Casa Yuma perfectly embodies that ethos: an eco-luxury sanctuary where design, sustainability, and soul coexist under one thatched roof. With just 25 king rooms, each thoughtfully curated with Oaxacan textiles, artisanal ceramics by Amande Haeghen, and natural materials like Chukum and locally sourced wood, it feels less like a hotel and more like a moodboard brought to life. The property’s intimate scale makes it feel exclusive without being stuffy, a rare balance in wellness travel. Whether you’re watching Pacific sunsets from your private rooftop terrace or wandering the lush grounds, the vibe is effortless and deeply restorative. Beyond the stunning design, Casa Yuma offers a wellness experience that’s both authentic and accessible. Guests can start the day with gentle yoga sessions or dive into guided surf lessons tailored to all levels. The open-air restaurant serves up fresh, bold flavours rooted in Oaxaca’s culinary heritage — think tamales, shrimp tacos, and smoky mezcal cocktails that pair perfectly with the ocean breeze. It’s a place where barefoot elegance meets meaningful connection, inviting you to slow down and soak in the richness of the moment without distraction. Here, wellness isn’t a checklist; it’s a way of being. Rastrello, Umbria, Italy Tucked into the storybook hilltop town of Panicale, Rastrello is the very definition of discreet luxury. With just nine rooms housed in a 500-year-old palazzo, this boutique hotel feels like a secret whispered between old stone walls and velvet armchairs. The design is effortlessly elegant, with an artful mix of original rustic elements and modern comforts that never shout for attention. The estate’s own olive oil is served with the reverence of a vintage Barolo—small, refined, and utterly authentic. Here, wellness is not a checklist of treatments but a slow unfolding: mornings filled with birdsong, afternoons spent wandering cobbled streets that have barely changed since the Renaissance. Rastrello offers a kind of Italian escape that feels deeply personal. There’s a timelessness to the place, a feeling that life unfolds at its own pace, shaped by the sun and seasons rather than itineraries. Lake Trasimeno stretches out below, a shimmering invitation to slow down and soak in the views. The surrounding Umbrian countryside, dotted with olive groves and vineyards, invites exploration on foot or by bike—unhurried adventures that nourish both body and soul. This is Italy as Italians dream it: romantic, unhurried, and quietly radiant. Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey Some retreats ask you to give up coffee. Six Senses Kaplankaya asks you to give up stress. Nestled on a rugged stretch of Turkey’s Aegean coast, this sprawling 10-hectare sanctuary is where billionaire tech founders come to unplug, reset, and nurture their microbiomes. The wellness programming is cutting edge, think biohacking, cryotherapy, and bespoke nutrition plans, yet the vibe remains warm and inviting, never clinical or intimidating. It’s a place where science meets serenity, and your daily schedule might include sunrise yoga overlooking the turquoise sea, a ritual Turkish hammam to sweat out toxins, and evening swims in hidden coves. Despite its celebrity clientele and state-of-the-art facilities, Kaplankaya feels more like a minimalist sci-fi fantasy than a luxury bunker. The design is sleek and subtle, with natural materials and expansive glass that frame the endless coastline. You leave feeling like you’ve hit the reset button - not just on your body but on your whole energy. Back in London, that newfound calm lingers, along with a renewed gut flora and maybe even a better relationship with your inbox. It’s the future of wellness travel, wrapped in the warmth of the Mediterranean sun. Lanserhof Sylt, Germany Lanserhof Sylt is not for the fainthearted or those expecting a spa day with cucumber slices on the eyes. This is Germany’s most medically advanced wellness sanctuary set on the wild North Sea island of Sylt. The new location balances clinical precision with architectural calm thanks to the visionary design of Christoph Ingenhoven. Inside, you will find a sleek minimalist space that feels more like a futuristic retreat than a traditional spa. But do not be fooled by the clean lines and serene palette. Lanserhof is about a deep reset with detox protocols that include IV drips, medically supervised fasting, and colon hydrotherapy, all designed to strip away what no longer serves you. What makes Lanserhof truly compelling is how it turns this rigorous approach into a strangely indulgent experience. The focus here is on transformation—sleeping deeply, sweating out toxins in the sauna, and sipping herbal infusions like fennel tea that quietly nurture you from the inside out. It is minimalist in style but maximalist in impact. Guests emerge feeling lighter, clearer, and emotionally refreshed, like a clean slate for whatever comes next. It is a place where luxury means discipline and wellbeing is earned, not given. One&Only Kéa Island, Greece If Mykonos is on your avoid list, allow me to introduce you to Kéa. This quiet Cycladic island has been flying under the radar for too long but is now stepping into the spotlight. One&Only’s debut here is a masterclass in modern Greek elegance. Picture white stone villas, infinity pools that seem to melt into aquamarine coves, and a wellness programme deeply rooted in local botanicals and ancient rituals. The design is effortlessly chic and the atmosphere calm, giving you space to breathe and truly unwind. The spa itself does not try too hard. It does not need to. You are in the middle of the Aegean surrounded by silence, the only soundtrack the gentle lapping of waves and the scent of mountain sage and thyme in the herbal teas served. Every moment here feels like bliss bottled up just for you. It is a retreat that honours tradition while embracing modern luxury, offering an escape where time slows and wellbeing naturally follows. Marine Troon, Scotland Yes, Scotland has wellness. At least it does now. Marine Troon is a revived seaside retreat on the west coast that fully embraces the briskness of its surroundings. This is wellness with a fresh edge, where cold water therapy and coastal hikes help you reconnect with nature’s raw power. Inside, the interiors feel more like a chic countryside home than anything you might expect from a traditional Scottish getaway. Think cozy lounges with roaring fireplaces and large windows framing endless tidal views. What really sets Marine Troon apart is its use of local ingredients in spa treatments that capture the spirit of the North Sea. From seaweed wraps to salt scrubs, the wellness here is deeply connected to the land and sea around it. It is luxury on a different wavelength, perfect for Londoners who want to press reset without boarding a plane or giving up on style. This is a retreat where you can find calm in the wild and sophistication in simplicity. The Gallivant, East Sussex What if Soho House had a seaside sister who loved forest bathing and drank green juice? That is exactly the vibe at The Gallivant. Nestled just a short walk from the sweeping sands of Camber, this East Sussex hideaway has quietly become a cult favourite among creatives and fashion insiders seeking effortless luxury by the sea. The style is coastal cool with whitewashed wood, endless linen, and an airy, relaxed atmosphere that makes you want to linger all day. But The Gallivant is more than just a pretty face. Its wellness offerings mix the unexpected with the indulgent—from hypnotherapy sessions and chakra massages to wild yoga classes that take full advantage of the nearby natural landscape. The wine list follows suit, boasting a selection of biodynamic bottles perfect for sipping after a sunset beach walk. And the food? Fried oysters that feel like a coastal hug. This is the kind of place where you come for the aesthetic and stay for the soul realignment. Santani Wellness, Sri Lanka Santani doesn’t whisper wellness, it emanates it in every corner. Nestled in the misty hills above Kandy, this retreat feels like stepping into a sanctuary where time slows and your senses begin to soften. The architecture is a stunning balance of sleek modernity and natural harmony, with glass walls framing views of lush forests and rolling mountains. There are no distractions here—no TVs, no air conditioning—just pure, intentional calm designed to help you reconnect deeply with yourself and nature. The heart of Santani is its commitment to Ayurvedic traditions fused with a personalised approach that feels both precise and nurturing. Every treatment, from herbal oil massages to guided forest meditations, is tailored to your unique needs, allowing you to reset on a level few places can offer. This is not just wellness; it is a spiritual realignment with a sense of place so strong it almost feels sacred. For anyone seeking profound restoration, Santani is the address to remember. Acro Suites, Crete Perched on the cliffs of Crete, Acro Suites is the kind of place you see all over Instagram but wish you could experience in real life. Carved directly into the rock, each suite feels like a private sanctuary with sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, your own plunge pool, and a calm so deep it almost becomes part of you. The design is effortlessly beautiful — crisp white walls, natural stone, and touches that feel inspired by classic Greek architecture, making every corner a perfect photo moment. But beyond the visual feast, the wellness here is truly immersive. The spa combines ancient traditions with a modern sensibility, featuring a Byzantine hammam and treatments made from local, natural ingredients. It’s a place where time slows, and you are invited to breathe, soak, and simply be. Acro Suites offers more than luxury — it delivers an elevated experience that captures the soul of the Aegean in every moment. Seaside: A Lifestyle Resort, Crete Seaside is the more playful sister of Acro Suites, offering wellness with a touch of glamour and a wink to the cosmopolitan traveller. Set right on the Cretan coast, it blends laid-back boho vibes with luxe touches that make every moment feel like a celebration. Imagine evenings spent at beachside dinners where the sunset sets the scene, followed by Pilates sessions that flow into cocktails. This is wellness designed for those who want to feel good and look good doing it. The resort’s approach is sensual and lively, not austere or clinical. Couples’ treatments come with champagne, and the energy is relaxed but stylish. It’s the perfect spot for anyone curious about wellness but not quite ready to give up their heels or their social life. Here, slowing down means turning up the joy, all wrapped up in the magic of Crete’s sun-soaked shores. The Grove, Hertfordshire The Grove has long been Londoners’ favourite escape when a staycation calls for something truly special. Nestled on expansive manicured grounds, it feels a world away from the city yet is just a short drive or Uber ride from the capital. What’s new—and quietly transformative—is their fresh approach to wellness. Think forest bathing sessions that reconnect you to nature, guided breathwork classes that reset your mind, and spa rituals designed to immerse you fully in calm. It’s wellness that feels intentional without being over the top. Beyond the spa and wellbeing offerings, The Grove blends everything you expect from a luxury retreat: a championship golf course, elegant rooms, and seasonal fine dining that highlights local ingredients. Whether you’re there to detox, decompress, or simply indulge, this is a place where proximity to London never compromises the sense of escape. It proves that luxury and convenience can live happily side by side, offering a perfect reset for busy Londoners. Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club, Miami The Surf Club is not just another spa hotel—it’s a statement. Set in a beautifully restored art deco landmark, it manages to capture the glamour of Old Hollywood while delivering a fresh, modern take on luxury wellness. Designed by Joseph Dirand, the interiors feel effortlessly cool, with clean lines and ocean views that make you want to linger in every corner. Here, wellness is woven into every detail, from hammam-inspired spa suites to sunrise yoga overlooking the Atlantic. What truly sets The Surf Club apart are the seasonal wellness residencies that bring world-class experts and bespoke treatments right to your doorstep. Whether you’re detoxing your body or simply seeking a moment of calm away from Miami’s usual buzz, this is a place where your wellbeing feels as carefully curated as your surroundings. It’s the perfect retreat for jet-setters who want their health rituals wrapped in elegance and style. Kilikya Palace, Turkey Kilikya Palace is the kind of place that flies just under the radar, which makes it all the more appealing for those craving a quieter kind of luxury. Nestled along the turquoise coast of Antalya, it offers a welcome escape from the usual all-inclusive resorts. Sure, there’s a swim-up bar and breakfast buffet, but what truly sets this place apart is the sense of calm that washes over you as soon as you arrive. The coastal air is restorative, and the hotel’s approach to wellness feels rooted in tradition with authentic hammam rituals and Turkish treatments that soothe both body and mind. Visit in the shoulder season when the crowds have thinned, and you’ll find a near-private sanctuary where the sea breeze and gentle waves become your soundtrack. The atmosphere is unpretentious yet refined, perfect for anyone looking to recharge without the usual fuss. At Kilikya Palace, luxury is about slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and indulging in wellness experiences that feel genuine and deeply nurturing.