RECHARGE WEEKEND AT ARTAH RETREATS

Catalonia, Spain ‘ARTAH is a private 12-bedroom villa-turnedhealth hideaway close to the eastern Pyrenees. It’s the passion project of Rhian Stephenson – nutritionist, naturopath, ex-professional swimmer and CEO of hip London spin studio Psycle. Easygoing and the picture of health, she’s flown in her own most-valued experts, from her favourite masseuse to Psycle’s top yoga instructor. The aim is to switch off and immerse yourself in nature – phones are allowed only for a quick snap of food or scenery. I tried the four-day detox retreat, including daily power yoga to Balearic-style beats, two hikes (including one to the 1,123m summit of nearby Mare de Déu del Mont), LED and Natura Bissé facials and one of the best massages of my life. There’s a morning ritual of body brushing and oil pulling, using flaxseed oil to dislodge any plaque and toxins that linger on the tongue and teeth. Ten minutes of swilling is required – I managed a hardy seven. ARTAH is alcohol-free, portion control is practised and snacking is a no-go, but the meals were worth waiting for: sweet potato fritters and garlicky mushrooms with chickpea pancakes for breakfast, griddled peach salad for lunch and a dinner of lentil dahl and butternut stew. Downtime was spent in the infrared sauna and pool, reading, talking and sharing things that even my closest allies don’t know. ARTAH felt like a safe space: no therapist’s sofa, just fresh air and beautiful surroundings. I left feeling rejuvenated and pretty chuffed at my ability to survive without sweet treats and frothy coffee.’ Becci Vallis

RED NOTE Having my kneecaps massaged felt like having my ‘reboot’ switch flicked – apparently, the knees are full of lymph nodes, so stimulating them is a great detoxifier. From £1,860, including full-board accommodation and treatments (artah.co)