As travellers seek slower, more restorative escapes, reading is emerging as a powerful way to switch off, with proven benefits for stress relief and cognitive wellbeing.
Research from the University of Cambridge found that almost 38% of adults turn to reading as their preferred way to relieve stress, while Expedia’s Unpack ’26 report found that 91% of travellers would be interested in a trip centered around reading, relaxation and quality time with loved ones.
In response, hotels are increasingly embracing creative literary experiences. From pop-up Barefoot Booksellers in the Maldives to Pulitzer’s Book Collector’s Suite, these are some of the most inspiring retreats to turn the page.
Soneva Jani & Soneva Fushi, Maldives
Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani situated in the Maldives, are home to the first pop-up bookshops in the Maldives, Barefoot Booksellers, brightly lit bookstores on the islands, showcasing a variety of genres of books. Soneva Jani’s whitewashed bookshop sits on a jetty above the crystal waters of the lagoon, meanwhile Soneva Fushi’s store blends into the natural lush greenery on the island.
Guests at both resorts have the opportunity to reconnect to a love of literature through curated collections and personalised ‘shelf discovery’ sessions and literary events with world-renowned authors. Trained by the Ultimate Library team, the Barefoot Booksellers are on hand to provide tailored recommendations, writing workshops and the occasional quiz night.
Nirjhara, Bali
With the rise of slower, interest-led travel and reading retreats continuing to gain momentum, Bali’s sustainable hideaway, Nirjhara, offers the perfect setting for an immersive literary escape. Tucked away among waterfalls, rice paddies and lush jungle on Bali’s tranquil southwest coast, the boutique retreat invites guests to disconnect from everyday life and reconnect through books, nature and mindful living.
Recently, the property held its first dedicated reading retreat in partnership with the global women’s book community, Ladies Who Lit, bringing together solo female travellers and book lovers for five days of poolside reading, thoughtful conversation, wellness experiences and cultural discovery. Following its success, the retreat is set to return in 2027, aligning with the slower rhythm that defines a stay at Nirjhara year-round, where days naturally unfold between reading by the pool, yoga at the Shala, treatments at The Retreat and exploring Bali’s surrounding landscapes.
Pulitzer, Amsterdam
Overlooking two of the city’s most picturesque canals, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht, famed heritage hotel Pulitzer Amsterdam spans twenty-five connecting 17th and 18th-century canal houses in the heart of Amsterdam’s UNESCO world heritage city centre. Inspired by Amsterdam’s rich history of the Golden Age to the mid-century, décor throughout blends modern and traditional influences with quintessential Dutch elegance and style, ensuring guests are instantly immersed in the city’s diverse culture.
The Book Collector’s Suite is a treasure trove of new and historic tomes sure to satisfy even the most ardent of readers. With a private entrance on the canal, the suite is the perfect place to curl up and relax, offering a beautiful view of the Keizersgracht canal from the sitting room windows, where guests can enjoy their own private library in the heart of Amsterdam. Many of the titles are Pulitzer Prize winners, a tribute to the hotel’s founder – Peter Pulitzer. The space is furnished with a curated mix of bespoke furniture, vintage pieces, and artwork.
Teranka, Formentera
Located in the heart of Formentera on the island’s sought-after Migjorn beach, Teranka is a 35-room boutique hotel that captures Formentera’s creative spirit. Curated by visionary Katrina Phillips, the Sea Library lies at the heart of Teranka, drawing inspiration from the island’s myths, maritime folklore and wild beauty, and offers a diverse collection of holiday reads, from Homer’s Odyssey to Moby Dick, designed to foster connection for all ages. This season saw Teranka expand its literary offering with the launch of Anchored, Teranka’s inaugural Sea Library Writer’s Residency, bringing together Spanish writers and literary figures including Pedro Simón, Pedro Martín-Caro and Daniela Agnelli. Through workshops, talks and interactive sessions, guests are offered the opportunity to engage with the written world in an inspiring natural setting and revive the lost art of meaningful conversation.
