MINDFUL
HOTSPOTS
RESET YOUR MIND, BODY AND SOUL
WITH SIX OF OUR FAVOURITE WELLNESS
EXPERIENCES ON SHIP AND ON SHORE
PHOTOGRAPHY ADRIENNE PITTS, ALAMY, GETTY IMAGES
INTO THE BLUE
Surrounded by brooding mountains and eerily beautiful heathland, a steaming, milky-blue lagoon is fed from a basin of geothermal water that comes straight from the Icelandic national power company’s well in Bjarnarflag. The mineral-rich, alkaline water arrives at a scalding 130ºC but cools to between 36ºC and 40ºC for idyllic bathing (the waters are said to do wonders for skin problems, asthma and other respiratory conditions). There’s also a natural sauna, where the steam rises directly from a fissure deep in the earth’s surface, and a café serving fresh bakes, salads, soup and sandwiches.
Mývatn Nature Baths, Iceland (from Akureyri)
MINDFUL
HOTSPOTS
RESET YOUR MIND, BODY AND SOUL
WITH SIX OF OUR FAVOURITE WELLNESS
EXPERIENCES ON SHIP AND ON SHORE
PHOTOGRAPHY ADRIENNE PITTS, ALAMY, GETTY IMAGES
INTO THE BLUE
Surrounded by brooding mountains and eerily beautiful heathland, a steaming, milky-blue lagoon is fed from a basin of geothermal water that comes straight from the Icelandic national power company’s well in Bjarnarflag. The mineral-rich, alkaline water arrives at a scalding 130ºC but cools to between 36ºC and 40ºC for idyllic bathing (the waters are said to do wonders for skin problems, asthma and other respiratory conditions). There’s also a natural sauna, where the steam rises directly from a fissure deep in the earth’s surface, and a café serving fresh bakes, salads, soup and sandwiches.
Mývatn Nature Baths, Iceland (from Akureyri)
SENSORY REMEDIES
Prepare for sensory adventures on the perfumed island of Corsica. This small region of France is famous for the maquis – a tangled, sun-baked shrubland with a unique and intoxicatingly spicy fragrance from the eucalyptus and wild herbs that grow there. Breathe deep as you travel through the rugged countryside towards the commune of Ocana, nosing out juniper, rosemary, sage, myrtle and lavender on the breeze. Then immerse yourself in native scents at La Maison des Senteurs aromatherapy distillery, which makes 13 organic essential oils using plants picked from the maquis. Indulge your tastebuds, too, with a trip to Le Jardin des Abeilles honey farm and a potter around the farmers’ market at Ajaccio. Enjoy olives, cheeses, salami, jams and patisserie.
Essential Oils, Honey Farm & Farmers’ Market, Corsica, France
SENSORY REMEDIES
Prepare for sensory adventures on the perfumed island of Corsica. This small region of France is famous for the maquis – a tangled, sun-baked shrubland with a unique and intoxicatingly spicy fragrance from the eucalyptus and wild herbs that grow there. Breathe deep as you travel through the rugged countryside towards the commune of Ocana, nosing out juniper, rosemary, sage, myrtle and lavender on the breeze. Then immerse yourself in native scents at La Maison des Senteurs aromatherapy distillery, which makes 13 organic essential oils using plants picked from the maquis. Indulge your tastebuds, too, with a trip to Le Jardin des Abeilles honey farm and a potter around the farmers’ market at Ajaccio. Enjoy olives, cheeses, salami, jams and patisserie.
Essential Oils, Honey Farm & Farmers’ Market, Corsica, France
GREEN DREAMS
Lose yourself to the wonders of nature in the lush, colourful blooms of Martinique’s Balata Botanical Gardens. Cultivated around a charming Creole house not far from Fort-de-France, the garden has been 20 years in the making, thanks to the tireless efforts of its dedicated owner Jean-Philippe Thoze. The landscape architect, poet and gardener has carefully designed the idyllic rainforest-like garden using over 3,000 varieties of local flora that are home to myriad fauna. As you wander among the verdant planting and vibrant tropical colours, pause on the suspension footbridge to take in spectacular views.
Balata Botanical Gardens, Martinique
AND RELAX...
For those seeking restorative relaxation while on board, head to The Retreat, the luxurious spa terrace on Arvia, Azura, Britannia, Iona (pictured) and Ventura. This outdoor refuge is exclusively for adults and numbers are limited, so the atmosphere is serene and sophisticated with sumptuous surroundings, complimentary healthy dishes and desserts and ocean views. Take in the fresh air, lounge in the warm sun or indulge in soothing alfresco spa treatments in a private cabana... The Retreat is the height of sophistication and indulgence.
FRESH VIEWS
See the power and glory of the natural world anew. Aboard your trusty kayak, paddle through Nordfjord, one of Norway’s most dramatic waterways, with awe-inspiring scenery as your backdrop. As you navigate the coastline through ice-blue fjordic waters, be mindful that you’re following in the wake of the Vikings (Nordfjord was once an epicentre of Viking power). Be still, breathe in, breathe out... and take in the humbling majesty of the surrounding landscapes, complete with countless peaks, cascading waterfalls, dazzling glaciers and forested mountainsides.
Nordfjord Kayaking, Olden, Norway
YOGA TIME
How about a sun salutation, Spanish-style? This tranquil treat for early birds is a great way to limber up for the day and see some stunning Andalusian countryside along the way. Head off from the bustle of Malaga port for a relaxed morning on the yoga mats at a charming hillside finca. Suitable for all ages and capabilities, a gentle yoga class will help you to focus your mind, reduce inflammation and stay flexible. Stretch away all those knots and tensions and hone your breathing techniques, while the sound of birdsong fills the air. Your day begins with a rustic breakfast to fuel all those downward dog and cat-cow stretches – pick your own sublimely scented tomatoes and citrus fruits from the kitchen garden, and mop up the juices with freshly baked bread. The perfect balance for body and spirit.
Eco Breakfast and Yoga, Malaga, Spain
Search and book holidays at www.pocruises.com or call us on 0333 300 0108*
*Local call charges apply
