Find your digital-detox escape

Have you ever dreamed of turning off your phone, closing your laptop and stepping away from the constant stream of work, news and social media? You’re not alone.

In our tech-driven world, we’re always connected, whether through emails, notifications or endless scrolling. The idea of a digital detox – where technology takes a back seat and you can fully unwind – is undeniably appealing. If you’re ready to recharge (and we don’t mean your devices), explore our handpicked hideaways where you can set your smartphone aside and enjoy some much-needed time for yourself.

Paradise, not pixels: Sandies Bathala, Maldives

There’s no better place to tune out than the desert island paradise of Sandies Bathala. You’ll quickly forget the outside world as you dive or snorkel in the vibrant house reef, feast on fresh fish and lounge on your villa deck with the latest page-turner.

Sandies Bathala, Maldives

Dunes, stars and silence: Desert Nights Resort, Oman

For a truly off-grid experience, Desert Nights Resort in Oman delivers isolated luxury in the heart of the Omani Desert. With endless red sands rolling to the horizon and Bedouin-style tents scented with frankincense, it feels like you’ve been transported to another time. Whether strolling across the dunes at sunset or stargazing under the vast desert skies, this camp offers peace, adventure and a blissful break from the digital grind.

Desert Nights Resort, Oman

The real-life screensaver: Borgo Pignano, Italy

Borgo Pignano is a lovingly restored 18th-century estate where you can soak up scenery worthy of a screensaver. The focus here is on simplicity and nature, with plenty of chances to indulge in Tuscany’s famous food and wine. Enjoy fresh, organic produce from the estate’s farm or sip local wines by the pool gazing out at the rolling hills. Inside, the only thing you’ll be glued to is the art; almost every room or wall is adorned with paintings by artists linked to Tuscany.

Borgo Pignano, Tuscany, Italy

Rainforest rhythms: Secret Bay, Dominica

Tucked in leafy rainforest on Dominica’s rugged coastline, Secret Bay is Caribbean escapism at its best. The open-air treehouse-style villas, six with private plunge pools, set the scene for a deep connection with nature. While not totally tech-free, the gadgets here are meant to enhance your stay – like speakers playing calming tunes to help you drift off to sleep and an iPhone for booking a rainforest massage or ordering delicious meals to your villa.

Secret Bay, Dominica

Wellness by the sea: Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra Kerala, India

Kerala has long drawn soul-seeking travellers, and when life gets too loud, Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra is the ideal place for a well-deserved reset. You can go all-in with a 14-day Ayurvedic programme tailored by the holistic doctor or dip in and out of the healing practises as you please. Other restoring moments include awakening the senses while exploring temples and markets, yoga by the waves and peaceful boat rides through the backwaters.

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kerala, India

The sounds of silence: Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge, Mauritius

In this stunning mountain sanctuary, you can relish the joy of silence – broken only by birdsong and rustling leaves. Hike to hidden waterfalls, discover the flora and fauna of Black River Gorges and cycle along winding valley trails. For the ultimate well-being escape, pair your stay with a few nights by the beach at Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa.

Garden & Mountain View Pool Suite, Lakaz Chamarel Exclusive Lodge, Mauritius

Transformative tranquillity: Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali

Spa Village Resort Tembok is a place of tranquillity, set among soaring peaks that sweep down to the black volcanic sand beach. There are no TVs and phones are gently discouraged, leaving you feeling wonderfully removed from the rest of the world. Your stay includes a daily spa treatment, plus activities like candle-making and cooking classes.

Spa Village Resort Tembok, Bali

Barefoot and unburdened: Cerf Island Resort, Seychelles

Cerf Island Resort is a bijou jungle isle with minimal modern distractions. Channel your inner Robinson Crusoe and embrace castaway life – shower under the stars in your rustic villa, hike to breathtaking viewpoints and snorkel among parrotfish and rays in the glassy lagoon.

Cerf Island Resort, Seychelles

Wildlife over Wi-Fi: Kinondo Kwetu, Kenya

Following thrilling close encounters with nature on a Kenyan safari, stay at this family-owned boutique retreat in Mombasa, hidden away from the buzzy Diani Beach resorts. You’ll find us under a thatch-roofed palapa, swinging on a shaded hammock with our toes in the sand on the stunning beach or enjoying grilled lobster by the sand.

Kinondu Kwetu, Mombasa, Kenya

Surf’s up, screens down: Kottukal Beach House By Jetwing, Sri Lanka

At Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing, you can swap screen time for surf time, with the world-renowned waves of Pottuvil Point just a few steps away. With only two rooms and two chalets, this little hideaway promises peace and relaxation. Take a stroll along the beach, join a cooking class in a nearby village or explore the grounds, where you might spot monkeys, butterflies and even the occasional elephant.

Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing, Sri Lanka