Long before wellness became hospitality’s most coveted offering, Miraval was quietly redefining what a luxury retreat could be. Founded in Arizona in 1995, the pioneering brand built its philosophy around mindfulness, balance and personal growth. Three decades later, as wellness travel continues to evolve, Miraval remains one of the industry’s most influential names—and one of the few built entirely around wellbeing from the very beginning. Here’s what you need to know about Miraval.
Image courtesy of Miraval
What Is Miraval?
Miraval is an adults-only collection of immersive wellness resorts designed to help guests reconnect with themselves through experiences rooted in mindfulness, movement, nutrition, nature and personal growth. Every element of the guest experience—from dining and accommodations to activities and digital policies—is designed around the brand’s “Life in Balance” philosophy.
Central to this philosophy is the belief that wellbeing is not something achieved during a retreat and forgotten upon returning home. Instead, it is a practice cultivated through awareness, intention and meaningful daily habits. This ethos informs everything from guided meditation sessions and outdoor adventures to creative workshops, equine experiences and one-on-one wellbeing consultations.
Guests are encouraged to participate at their own pace, creating personalised itineraries aligned with their individual goals, whether that involves reducing stress, building resilience, improving physical health or simply stepping away from the demands of everyday life.
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A Wellness Philosophy Backed by Research
Miraval become one of the first luxury wellness brands to formally study the impact of its guest experience. In partnership with wellbeing research organisation Humin, the brand recently conducted the Miraval Wellbeing Study, examining measurable changes in guest wellbeing following a stay at one of its resorts.
The findings suggested meaningful improvements in perceived stress, resilience and social connection, supporting what many returning guests have long described anecdotally: that a wellness retreat can serve as more than a temporary escape from burnout.
Miraval’s Destinations
Each Miraval property reflects the character of its surroundings while remaining anchored in the brand’s overarching wellbeing philosophy.
Miraval Arizona
Located just outside Tucson, Miraval Arizona is the original property and remains the spiritual home of the brand. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Santa Catalina Mountains, the resort draws inspiration from the Sonoran Desert’s vast landscapes and contemplative atmosphere. Many of Miraval’s signature experiences, including its acclaimed equine programmes and challenge-course activities, originated here. For first-time visitors seeking the quintessential Miraval experience, Arizona remains the flagship destination.
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Miraval Austin
Perched on the shores of Lake Travis, Miraval Austin offers a distinctly Texan interpretation of wellness. The atmosphere feels energetic yet grounded, blending mindfulness practices with outdoor adventures, creative workshops and nature-based experiences shaped by the surrounding Texas Hill Country. Its proximity to Austin has also made it a popular choice for professionals seeking restorative escapes without sacrificing accessibility.
Miraval Berkshires
Set within the rolling hills of western Massachusetts, Miraval Berkshires brings a seasonal, East Coast perspective to the brand. Occupying the historic grounds of a former Gilded Age estate, the property combines New England charm with Miraval’s contemporary approach to wellbeing. Guests often gravitate here for forest walks, seasonal activities, reflective programming and a slower pace that mirrors the rhythms of the surrounding countryside.
Miraval The Red Sea
Representing the brand’s first international venture, Miraval The Red Sea signals a significant new chapter. Opened as part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Red Sea development, the resort introduces Miraval’s wellbeing philosophy to a global audience while incorporating the region’s unique landscapes and cultural influences. The project reflects the growing importance of wellness as a primary travel motivator and further cements Miraval’s position as one of the category’s most influential brands.
What’s Included in a Miraval Stay?
Unlike many luxury wellness retreats where activities and treatments are added à la carte, Miraval’s pricing model is intentionally inclusive.
All stays include:
- Luxury accommodations
- Daily chef-prepared breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Snacks, smoothies and non-alcoholic beverages
- Access to a robust schedule of complimentary wellness experiences
- Yoga, meditation and fitness classes
- Guided hikes and outdoor adventures
- Wellness lectures and workshops
- Full access to resort amenities, including the Life in Balance Spa facilities
- Round-trip airport transportation at participating resorts
- A gratuity-free environment
Guests also receive a nightly resort credit, typically valued at USD 175 per person, which can be applied towards spa treatments, private sessions and select premium experiences.
For travellers seeking the most comprehensive experience, the Ultimate Wellbeing Package includes access to nearly all fee-based wellness experiences in addition to the standard nightly credit.
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Why Miraval Continues to Lead
While many brands have added wellness to existing hospitality concepts, Miraval was built around wellbeing from the beginning. Every programme, every activity and every interaction exists in service of a singular purpose: helping guests create a more balanced relationship with themselves and the world around them.
Contact dervla.louli@compareretreats.com to book your luxury wellness retreat
