8 Best Wellness Retreats In Delaware
Stress levels worldwide always seem to be on the rise, and the reasons are numerous: inflation, natural disasters, global conflicts, among others. Thankfully, there are many ways to unwind and heal, especially in a beautiful state like Delaware. Bordered by several bodies of water and blessed with an abundance of parks, forests, beaches, and spas, this state has all it takes to offer the ultimate wellness vacation. From camping in a 5,000-acre park with beautiful beaches to a tour of an enchanted woodland that feels like a mythical forest from Middle Earth, here are eight of the best wellness retreats in Delaware.
A Session At The Bellmoor Inn & Spa (Rehoboth Beach)
When wellness is mentioned, a spa experience often comes to mind, and rightfully so, as it is one of the best ways to relax. Luckily, Delaware is home to many incredible spas, and The Bellmoor Inn & Spa is just one of them. This property in Rehoboth Beach offers luxurious accommodation, but what makes it super interesting is its relaxing day spa where guests are treated by talented professionals. Everything from relaxing massages to facials, and more are offered in this spa, and there’s also an outdoor family pool to soak in after the experience. Book a session here for a pleasurable pampering that will be hard to forget. And then, of course, there is Rehoboth Beach itself, which features several sandy beaches and near-constant ocean breezes.
Paddling In Trap Pond State Park (Laurel)
Paddling is one of the most relaxing activities one can do outdoors. And while there are many places to do this in Delaware, Trap Pond remains the top choice. This state park near Laurel offers crystal clear calm waters that mirror the surrounding bald cypress trees. Year-round, the gorgeous leaves of these trees make the entire experience more pleasurable as paddlers gently float on the water. Thankfully, the park has a boat ramp plus kayak and canoe rentals, so all you have to do is visit to enjoy the relaxing experience. In the meantime, trails for hiking and biking are also available, and there are rustic two-room cabins in the park for lodging.
A Tour Of Enchanted Woods (Winterthur)
Delaware is such an incredible state with many hidden gems offering soul-healing experiences, and the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library is perhaps the most interesting. Designed by some of America’s most famed landscape architects, this spectacular estate is famous for hosting a charming fairy-tale garden known as the Enchanted Woods. This wonderland is a nature lover’s paradise characterized by a host of relaxing colors emanating from flowers and oak trees, as well as unique highlights like the Faerie Cottage, the Tulip Tree House, and the Forbidden Fairy Ring, among others. With so much beauty concentrated on this spot, a walk-through is definitely a fine recipe for wellness. In the meantime, the estate also has a museum featuring thousands of objects preserving more than two centuries of American decorative arts. The Inn at Montchanin Village & Spa and the Quoin Hotel are some nearby accommodations to stay when visiting this iconic attraction.
Physical Wellness at Jungle Jim’s River Safari Water Park (Rehoboth Beach)
It's important to remember that wellness also involves movement and activity. To get the blood pumping and to help reset and refresh the mind and spirit, sometimes all it takes is an intense splashing session at a water park around little children. Fortunately, Jungle Jim’s River Safari Water Park is in Delaware, and it's the right place to enjoy that exciting water experience. Open Memorial day through Labor Day, this is the largest waterpark in the state. It has several attractions including six large waterslides, a 900-foot lazy river (if all one needs is some chill time), a wave pool, and a "sprayground." More interestingly, the park features a wildlife theme and offers other activities like rock climbing, swimming, bumper boat rides, and golfing at a miniature course. Additionally, the park hosts the River Safari Cafe where visitors can always enjoy salads, sandwiches, ice cream, and a great selection of refreshments. After a fun day of activity and physical wellness activities, it's time for a relaxing walk down the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. Top accommodations to stay nearby include the aforementioned Bellmoor Inn & Spa, the Ocean Glass Inn, and the Beach View Motel.
A Visit to Abbott’s Mill Nature Center (Milford)
The Abbott’s Mill Nature Center is a historic attraction near Milford with waterways and pristine trails, perfect for a relaxing time in nature. Set amid the 313-acre Milford Millponds Nature Preserve, this attraction hosts more than five miles of trails cutting through lush woodlands, as well as a boardwalk leading to charming meadows and a picnic area. There’s also a 20-acre pond in the nature center for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. With all these incredible facilities, a visit to this area promises to trigger rapid wellness as time spent in nature has been proven to improve physical and mental well-being. In the meantime, a historic working gristmill is in the center and is open for tours (call for schedules and availability). Nearby hotels to stay when visiting the nature center include the Hampton Inn Milford and Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Milford.
A Trip to Bellevue State Park (Wilmington)
What the eyes see greatly affects the soul, which is why our hearts leap for joy when we behold beautiful things. And a joyous heart can be the beginning of all-round wellness. Fortunately, Delaware has many beautiful places, and Bellevue State Park, the former estate of the Delaware du Pont family. This 328-acre area in Wilmington is incredibly scenic, with a charming pond surrounded by rolling, wooded meadows. The park also hosts a historic church, the Mount Pleasant Methodist Episcopal Church and Parsonage, built in 1838. There are also tennis courts, equestrian stables, gardens, and trails for hiking and biking. Visit this park today and just enjoy picnics on the green fields with views of the peaceful pond or engage in some adventures and you’ll definitely leave with improved physical and mental well-being. This park is also near some of Wilmington’s finest hotels, such as Hotel Du Pont (fitting) and DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Wilmington.
A Good Dose Of Laughter At Delaware’s Best Comedy Spots
They say laughter is the best medicine, and laughing is one of the best wellness activities one can ever experience. It’s no joke! Numerous studies have shown that laughter can significantly reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. It also boosts the immune system, and decreases heart rate and blood pressure, leading to improved wellness. In Delaware, lots of comedy shows are held year-round at various destinations, but you only need to catch one to make sense of the phrase “laughter is the best medicine.” Some of the best spots to catch comedy shows in Delaware include the Milton Theatre in Milton, the Candlelight Theatre near Wilmington, and the Grand Opera House in Wilmington. In addition to comedy, these venues also offer musicals and other performances to keep guests happy. When it comes to accommodations, Hyatt House Lewes Rehoboth Beach is about 10 miles from the Milton Theatre, Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Wilmington is just 5 miles from Candlelight Theatre, and Hotel Du Pont is a five-minute walk from the Grand Opera House.
Camping At Cape Henlopen State Park (Lewes)
Camping in nature is no doubt a quick recipe for relaxation. Just relaxing in nature away from the stress of everyday life is sure to be a great way to find peace and enjoy wellness. In Lewes, Cape Henlopen State Park is one of the best places to enjoy camping; its campsites offer a wide range of amenities including electric and water hookups, fire rings, walk-in tent sites, and picnic tables, among others. Perhaps its most appealing feature is its location where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Hence, campers at the park will have easy access to miles of white sand beaches where gorgeous ocean scenery and a host of fun activities, including fishing and swimming, await. Additionally, the park has a Seaside Nature Center, more than 20 miles of hiking & biking trails, and a World War II fort. Meanwhile, Hotel Blue and the Inn at Canal Square are nearby for those who want some luxury before or after the camping experience.
Conclusion
Delaware is an incredible place to enjoy an unforgettable wellness retreat. With endowments like beaches, lush forests, spas, and waterbodies scattered across its territory, there’s no shortage of places to disconnect from it all and rejuvenate. Feeling stressed or unfulfilled? Engage in Delaware’s best wellness retreats with an open mind today and enjoy a whole new world of happiness and wholesomeness. And when the outdoor wellness efforts have been exhausted, head inside for great food, fun comedy shows, and comfy accommodations at one of the great establishments that dot this wonderful state.
