Retreating to Nature

Fast-paced and frenetic, city living can be exhilarating – and exhausting. A recent study has uncovered a connection between urban environments and poor mental health, and that immersing ourselves in nature for just 60 minutes can reduce anxiety and depression.

Here we explore how you can harness the rejuvenating effect of nature across our tranquil sanctuaries to revive your mental and physical wellbeing.

Immerse in stark green forests

Worlds apart from a regular Balinese getaway, is the experience of a lifetime at Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape. This award-winning ‘no-walls, no-doors’ resort embraces the full power of nature, boasting sunrise views of majestic mountain peaks, obstructed only by wisps of morning mist.

Hike through the serene tropical rainforest as you take in the picturesque summit of Mt Batur, cool off in the Ayung River’s foam-tipped falls, and reconnect with your inner self in a yoga session illuminated by moonlight.

Enjoy digital detox in the highlands

Switch off your devices and tune in to the sounds of birdsong, cascading waterfalls and the meditative chanting of Buddhist monks at Banyan Tree Ringha. Wind down and lose yourself in quiet contemplation in the secluded Shangri-La highlands, as you spend the night beneath the timber beams of a traditional lodge or farmhouse villa, far away from any modern cityscapes.

Explore Mt Haba Snow’s stunning white terraces formed by natural mineral deposits, and explore bike paths that wind along a nature reserve in nearby Lijiang.

Find natural rest and relaxation

Forget the madness of your morning commute as you stroll along the private beach of Banyan Tree Samui, an all-pool villa resort where you’re never far from the water and the wildlife that calls it home.

Wander the warm sandy shores of the Gulf of Thailand trying to spot green sea turtles, or enter The Rainforest – Thailand’s first hydrotherapy spa – and surrender yourself to the intuitive, rejuvenating touch of our expert therapists.

Admire captivating coastal views

Nothing beats gazing at the Pacific Ocean’s brilliant blues from the intimate Mexican oasis of Banyan Tree Cabo Marques, where 45 elegant cliff-top villas overlook the Bay of Puerto Marqués. Breathe fresh sea air and drink in Acapulco’s dramatic sunsets before falling asleep to the hypnotic symphony of waves.

Watersports, fishing trips and horse riding expeditions are just a few ways to engage with local flora and fauna – spot herons soaring overhead and see flamingos and pelicans wandering among mangroves on a boat tour of Tres Palos Lagoon, a nearby nature reserve.

Explore historic waterways

Water has carved a path through the Chinese city of Hangzhou for centuries. Follow its trail along the Grand Canal from Banyan Tree Hangzhou, set within the bird-filled sanctuary of Xixi National Wetland Park, or take a sculling boat trip with a local fisherman to select ingredients for lunch from the local market.

Ancient temples and pagodas adorning the city’s West Lake bring a human-made accent to the surrounding botanical gardens and tea plantations such as Longjing Tea Village, where you can sip some of the country’s most renowned brews.

Embrace our eight simple practices in your daily routine to help you move towards a place of health, happiness and harmony.