T
he $6.3 trillion wellness industry continues to evolve and grow, driven by the increasing awareness of the importance of physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. According to the Global Wellness Institute's 2024 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, the sector reached a staggering $6.3 trillion in 2023 and is expected to reach nearly $9 trillion by 2028.
Wellness real estate has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sectors within the industry, with an annual growth rate of 18.1 percent from 2019 to 2023. This trend is reflected in the development of luxury wellness resorts and hotels that offer holistic experiences, combining therapies from natural and scientific medicine.
The SHA Wellness Clinic in Alicante, Spain, is a pioneering example of this approach. Founded in 2008 by Alejandro Bataller, SHA combines cutting-edge diagnostics and consultations with luxurious amenities, including healthy living programs and cognitive stimulation. The clinic's goal is to have properties on every continent, with locations already established in Costa Mujeres, Mexico, and upcoming developments in the UAE.
Another notable example of wellness real estate is the Well, a socially fueled members club founded by Sarrah Hallock, Rebecca Parekh, and Kane Sarhan in 2019. The club's flagship location in New York offers a range of holistic services, including health coaching, vitamin shots, and bodywork. The Well has expanded to several Auberge Resorts Collection properties, including the Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut, and Chileno Bay Resort & Residences in Los Cabos, Mexico.
The trend towards wellness real estate is not limited to luxury resorts; even historic landmarks are being repurposed as wellness destinations. The Zeyrek Çinili Hamam in Istanbul, a centuries-old Turkish bathhouse, has been restored after a 13-year renovation and now offers spa treatments and cultural experiences.
In the United States, the Ranch Hudson Valley in Sloatsburg, New York, is an intimate retreat that offers structured programs incorporating hikes, naps, fitness, yoga, daily massages, and plant-based foods. The Estate by sbe, a hospitality and residential ecosystem developed by Sam Nazarian, Tony Robbins, Marc Anthony, and Richard Attias, aims to create transformative luxury destinations that empower individuals to live healthier and more vibrant lives.
As the wellness industry continues to grow, it is clear that the concept of wellness has evolved beyond mere pampering or relaxation. Today's consumers seek purposeful experiences that enhance their lives, and the trend towards wellness real estate reflects this shift in priorities.
