Unplug to reconnect: the best digital detox retreat destinations

Amsterdam's Museum Quarter provides the ideal setting for a mindful digital detox retreat. At Avani Museum Quarter Amsterdam Hotel, you're perfectly positioned to explore world-class art collections that demand your full attention. Wander through the Van Gogh Museum's swirling masterpieces, lose hours contemplating Rembrandt's portraits at the Rijksmuseum, or discover contemporary works at the Stedelijk Museum.

The beauty of art exploration lies in its natural ability to pull you into the moment. Each artwork tells a story that unfolds slowly, requiring patience and focus – qualities that constant digital stimulation often erodes. Between gallery visits, escape to nearby Vondelpark for the timeless pleasure of people-watching – observe locals cycling past tree-lined paths and families gathering for impromptu picnics.

Beyond the city, Amsterdam's countryside offers authentic experiences that reconnect you with traditional rhythms of life. Cycle through vibrant tulip fields at Keukenhof during spring, visit working cheese farms like De Simonehoeve, or explore historic windmill villages like Zaanse Schans. The simple act of cycling naturally enforces a digital detox – with both hands gripping the handlebars, (we hope) your phone remains safely tucked away whilst you focus entirely on the path ahead.

For those seeking the ultimate digital detox retreat, Avani Barbarons Seychelles Resort offers an idyllic escape where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters naturally encourage you to unplug. The Seychelles archipelago feels worlds away from the digital chaos of everyday life, with powder-soft sand beneath your feet and the gentle rhythm of waves providing nature's own meditation soundtrack.

As the first country in the world to include conservation efforts in their constitution, with around 60% of land mass protected, the Seychelles represents one of Earth's most pristine sanctuaries. Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and Aldabra Atoll – showcase ancient palm forests home to giant tortoises roaming freely across coral atolls.

Spend your days snorkelling amongst vibrant coral reefs, hiking through lush tropical forests, or simply reading a book under swaying palm trees. The absence of urban noise pollution allows you to rediscover the subtle sounds of nature.

Vietnam's central coast offers diverse opportunities to disconnect whilst immersing yourself in local culture and stunning landscapes. From Avani Quy Nhon Resort, explore Eo Gio's dramatic cliffs or the Phuong Mai Sand Dunes on the Phuong Mai Peninsula, where approximately 100-metre-high dunes composed of brown and white sands offer sand skiing adventures.

Delve into the region's rich Cham heritage by exploring ancient towers and learning about this fascinating civilisation's influence on Vietnamese culture. For golf enthusiasts, the resort's championship course provides hours of focused play against a backdrop of rolling hills and ocean views.

Consider taking a journey on the heritage railway, The Vietage, where vintage carriages transport you through scenic countryside at a pace that encourages contemplation rather than rushed sightseeing.

Thailand's Khao Lak region serves up the perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting activities that pull you away from screens and into real-world experiences. Based at Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, you can spend days island-hopping to Thailand's beautiful beaches including local favourites like the Similan Islands, and learn about turtle conservation. The resort itself offers unique turtle and shark release experiences that connect you directly with marine conservation efforts.

Try bamboo rafting down peaceful rivers, where the gentle current guides you through lush jungle scenery, or visit Takua Pa's old town with its charming streets perfect for unhurried exploration of local markets and traditional architecture.

The Thai "sabai sabai" mindset – embracing a relaxed, unhurried approach to life – naturally encourages visitors to slow down and savour each moment. This cultural philosophy of taking things easy creates the perfect environment for digital detox, where rushing through experiences feels entirely out of place.

Auckland combines cosmopolitan city life with easy access to stunning natural landscapes, making it perfect for flexible digital detox retreat experiences. From Avani Auckland Metropolis Residences, you can explore the city's harbourfront walks, visit La Cigale French Markets in Parnell on Saturdays or take solo adventures to nearby beaches like Mission Bay and Takapuna Beach or volcanic islands including Rangitoto Island, just a 25-minute ferry ride away.

Step beyond Auckland to discover magical experiences that pull you away from digital distractions. Journey to Hobbiton Movie Set where rolling green hills create an enchanting escape, or venture into Waitomo Caves to witness thousands of glowworms creating a natural starry ceiling. Rotorua offers geothermal wonders and Maori cultural experiences, whilst the Bay of Islands provides dolphin and whale watching opportunities where nature demands your full attention.

As evening falls, New Zealand's minimal light pollution reveals spectacular stargazing opportunities. A bit out of the city, you'll find Great Barrier Island's pristine night skies offering some of the clearest views in the world. The country's emphasis on work-life balance creates an atmosphere where switching off feels not only acceptable but encouraged.