Italy is gifted with 5,000 miles of coastline and the seas surrounding the peninsula are among the country’s most precious commodities. From north to south, you can appreciate calm waters with endless beaches. From the northwestern Ligurian Sea to the eastern Adriatic and Ionian seas at the tip of the boot, there is much to discover.
For Italians, the sea is synonymous with rejuvenation, pleasure, and family. This ritual dates back to Italy’s ancient past where saltwater spas offered “thalassotherapy”.
Derived from the Greek word “thalassos”, meaning sea, thalassotherapy is the use of seawater and marine products as a therapeutic treatment. The therapy oxygenates the tissues and exposure to seawater and the application of sea products provides the body health and beauty benefits. Originating in ancient Rome, thalassotherapy is an enduring method for holistic well-being.
Experience this soothing, cleansing therapy of the sea at 5 of Italy’s thalassotherapy spas:
Forte Village Resort
Forbes magazine rated Forte Village Resort as the Best Family Resort. Nestled on the enchanting southern coast of Sardinia near the city of Nora, you can indulge yourself on one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Forte Village Resort is surrounded by 55 hectares of heavenly gardens and embodies total relaxation. The medical team of Forte Village Resort, led by Dr. Angelo Cerina, along with the “Thalasso Research Centre at Milan University'', created a unique detox method to rejuvenate and strengthen the body. This facility also hosts some of the best specialists in sports medicine. The team can also create a specific menu during your stay to optimize the most nutritious selection of foods.
Tombolo Talasso Resort
Tombolo Talasso Resort is a leader in luxury hospitality, food excellence, and embracing the magic of the Tuscan seaside. This resort is among the first in Italy to rediscover the incredible power of Thalassotherapy. Encompassed by the “Etruscan coast” you can enjoy a piece of history while at the grounds of this hotel as it’s near the necropolis of Populonia, in the Gulf of Baratti, one of the oldest villages inhabited by the Etruscan people in Italy. The hotel rooms have both sea and pine forest views, which makes it in perfect harmony with nature. The meals offer local selections, made with Tuscan extra virgin olive oil and paired with some of the region’s premier wines.
Adler Spa Resort Sicilia
The Adler Family operates some of the most exclusive luxury resorts in Italy. The new ADLER Spa Resort SICILIA offers maximum comfort and a welcoming atmosphere during each season. Choose between wide swimming pools, direct beach access to the Torre Salsa Oriented Nature Reserve, and spa treatments inspired by the sea. The breathtaking coastline and the resort’s homegrown garden enhance the fresh Sicilian ingredients for the best quality food.
Kalidria Hotel & Thalasso Spa
The Kalidria Hotel & Thalasso SPA is situated in the Stornara Nature Reserve, which connects the hotel to a very long private sandy beach along the Ionian Sea. The architect, Emilio Ambasz, paid attention to every detail making it the ideal destination for those who desire peace and comfort. The hotel is home to the Ethra Thalasso SPA, rated amongst the most prestigious spas in Italy, which offers Thalassotherapy treatments and regenerative wellness rituals. This unique resort inspires wellness through immersion in seawater as well as purifying and restoring the body and mind. Nearby cities of art and tradition include Lecce and the Salento Coast, Ostuni, Alberobello and the Trulli Houses, Castel del Monte, Matera.
Approdo Resort Thalasso Spa
Located in the heart of the Cilento Coast, immerse yourself in seawater at the eco-friendly Approdo Resort Thalasso Spa. It is recognized for having one of the most innovative spas in Southern Italy, located in S.Marco di Castellabate. The resort covers an area of 2500 square meters distributed in several different wellness areas including Steam/Heat, Sea Aerosol, Sea Pool Inside & Suspended Sea Pool, and the Relax Area. You will find the bright colors, hospitality, and the warmth of Southern Italy.
Barbara Benzoni
Barbara Benzoni was born in Milan and lives between Rome and Tuscany. She is devoted to USA, the land of courage and innovation. She’s Peter's super-lucky mum and Ale's wife. Cinema, art, good food and only beautiful things are the themes of her existence. With a degree in Italian literature and a Masters in Sports Management she can both enjoys books and basketball matches. In 25 years she has been organizing sport events all over the world and she’s been lucky enough to meet the greatest champs ever. Curiosity in everyday life and people are her drivers. Her personal icon is Mohammed Ali : "It's not bragging if you can back it up".