Centered on the synergy between Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, Escapada is a rare take on luxury health retreats. Cofounders Maeve O’Sullivan and Emilia Herting initially met while studying traditional Chinese medicine at school in London. After completing degrees in nursing and acupuncture for O’Sullivan and integrated Chinese medicine and acupuncture for Herting, the duo set up clinics in London, Dublin, and Hamburg. In 2017, they completed their inaugural wellbeing retreat in Mallorca, Spain, and since then, Escapada has expanded, adding new locations in Ireland and Germany as well.
This May, the all-female team will launch their Women’s Health & Wellness series that will incorporate holistic treatments, mindful movement, nutrition services, and, ultimately, time off. “In today’s world, we may know what is good for us, but we often struggle with the daily application of a healthy lifestyle,” says O’Sullivan.
The key to their success can be largely attributed to their surrounding environments. The Mallorca location (shown) was originally a farm compound with olive and almond orchards, and seven small adjoining houses are now home to the bedrooms, which are outfitted with local stone, handpicked furnishings, and understated art. The complex “makes your shoulders drop and your whole body feel immediately grounded the moment you enter,” says Herting. Still, the most important element is what guests take away from the experience—having more open conversations. Adds O’Sullivan: “True health is much more than living a healthy lifestyle. It’s about getting to know yourself, reflecting upon symptoms, and finding out exactly what you need to feel strong, resilient, and happy.”
Photography courtesy of Escapada
