A focus on water sourced from the natural surrounding Springs, the thèrmes. These natural thermal baths have been recognised for their healing properties since the early fourteenth century thanks to an exceptionally high mineral content. The Fiuggi area is one of Italy’s richest natural resources, thanks to this extraordinary water. This water that originates within the region’s natural springs and mountains is famous for restoring the kidneys and balancing the immune system, and said to have cured the illnesses of Pope Boniface VIII and Michelangelo.I definitely felt increased energy and more balanced following my trip.
The vast wellness and medical space is a harmonious blend of contemporary design and historic grandeur. Spanning 6,000 square metres, dominated by white marble and wood, the space radiates elegance and tranquillity. This synergy is perfectly balanced, offering 39 treatment rooms, 12 medical rooms, a private spa suite, and dedicated spaces for yoga and pilates. Additionally, there is a specialised manicure and pedicure salon, and a hydro circuit that features two thalasso medical pools designed for healing, floatation, zero gravity experiences, a magnesium-rich pool, and a contrast cold pool. Particularly noteworthy is the Roman Therme, a 700 square metre facility that recreates the ancient Roman bath experience, with a view of the enchanting Old Town. It includes a Kneipp circuit, a salt room, a far-infrared sauna, a steam room, and a reaction pool.
The Palazzo’s former ballroom has been transformed into a state-of-the-art, 400 square metre Workout Movement Lab, that I dubbed the “Dream Gym ” equipped with cutting-edge fitness technology from Technogym, Relaxing for cognitive training, and Icarus for virtual reality fitness experiences. The semi-Olympic pool, panoramic indoor and outdoor pools, and Jacuzzi add to the comprehensive wellness offerings. The holistic healing therapies, including Indian Ayurveda and sound healing, alongside high-tech, touchless treatment experiences, enhance the more alternative approaches of Palazzo Fiuggi.
The culinary experience is elevated by the expertise of three-star Michelin chef Heinz Beck and David della Morte, a specialist in senescence-related diseases and the Medical and Scientific Director at the retreat. Together, they have crafted a unique menu exclusive to Palazzo Fiuggi, emphasising light, healthy, and delicious personalised menus. Beck, leveraging his honorary degree in Natural Bioenergies, utilises biodynamic, natural ingredients to design these menus. Unlike other medical retreats, the culinary offerings at Palazzo Fiuggi focus on food nutrients that activate cellular pathways linked to anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant processes. Yet this obsession with health and balance, does nothing to compromise on taste, I tasted some of the most incredible food I have savoured over the last few years at the retreat. This innovative approach showcases food as medicine, aiding the body when prepared and served correctly. Beck ensures that as much locally sourced, biodynamic produce as possible is used, providing guests with a unique culinary experience that incorporates the benefits of a Mediterranean diet. Read Lux Eat’s exclusive interview with Heinz Beck here.
Palazzo Fiuggi is a luxurious retreat featuring 102 exclusive rooms and suites, ranging from 32 to 135 square metres, each offering stunning views of the private park or the historic old town of Fiuggi. Spanning eight hectares of parkland, the property offers an array of on-site activities such as a panoramic indoor pool connected to an outdoor heated pool, an Olympic-sized pool from 1936, yoga and pilates studios, a 12-seat cinema, paddle and tennis courts, a billiard room, bike riding trails, and a bowling green. Among the highlights is the newly restored Villa Luisa, a seven-bedroom villa within the park, available for exclusive bookings and equipped with a private garden, outdoor dining area, spa facilities, a state-of-the-art gym, and a wine cellar. In less than two years, Palazzo Fiuggi has earned significant accolades, including being named the Best Destination Spa in the world by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards.
This exquisite combination of modern luxury and historic charm makes Palazzo Fiuggi an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation, wellness, and opulence. In an unexpected twist, I came for the health benefits and to explore something different, as I’ve never been on a health retreat before, but I would come back for the food.
