Even in ancient Rome, people knew about the healing power of water. A report on the most important methods and applications. Plus: a guide to the best establishments.
Für viele Menschen ist Water the Wellnesselement schlechthin, ob von innen durch Trinkkuren oder durch äußerliche Anwendungen. Wasser ist in jedem Fall ein grundlegender Teil unseres Wohlbefindens. Zu dieser Erkenntnis kam die Menschheit schon sehr früh: Von der Tatsache, dass Meerwasser heilt, waren die Menschen schon vor sage und schreibe 2400 Jahren felsenfest überzeugt.
Bereits im antiken Griechenland wusste der berühmte Arzt Hippokrates von Kos um die Kräfte von Meer und Seeluft und nutzte diese medizinisch. Im Mittelalter geriet dieses Wissen in Vergessenheit und fand erst Mitte des 18. Jahrhunderts durch den Londoner Arzt Richard Russel wieder Anwendung. Die moderne Forschung untermauert dies und hat Meerwassersubstanzen längst als heilende Wirkstoffe anerkannt. Doch die Thalassotherapie ist eindeutig mehr als Meer: Sie ist ein integriertes Konzept zur Therapie, Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung. Das Potenzial dieser Therapie liegt in zwei Komponenten: dem heilenden Salz im Meer und den lebenswichtigen Mineralien der Algen. Das Wort „Thalasso“ leitet sich übrigens vom altgriechischen „thálassa“ ab und bedeutet „die Kraft des Meeres“. Es bezeichnet die Behandlung mit kaltem oder erwärmtem Meerwasser, Meeresluft, Sonne, Algen oder Sand. Grundsätzlich unterscheidet man bei Thalasso zwei Richtungen: die Thalassotherapie als medizinisches Heilmittel und die Thalassoanwendung, die präventiv oder zu kosmetischen Zwecken zum Einsatz kommt. Zu Letzterem zählen das Inhalieren mit Meerwasser, Meerwasserbäder, Heliotherapie mit natürlicher Sonnenstrahlung, Bewegungsangebote in Meeresnähe oder auch die kosmetische Behandlung mit Meeresprodukten, beispielsweise Algen. Eine „echte“ Thalassotherapie kann nur stattfinden, wo ein direkter Bezug zum Meer besteht und die thalassotypischen Elemente gesamtheitlich wirken können. Essenziell hierbei: Nur das ganzheitliche Zusammenspiel dieser Elemente lässt auch die Bezeichnung Thalassotherapie zu.
Not only seawater, but also mountain and thermal water have been proven to have a healing effect, starting with internal use. After all, water is man's most important elixir of life, as it plays an irreplaceable role in almost all parts of our body as the fuel of our bodily functions. Regular water intake therefore plays an irreplaceable role. When it comes to clean and mineral-rich drinking water, the Alpine region is, among many other regions, a veritable land of milk and honey: the areas in the Alps are blessed with clean drinking water that can be consumed from the tap without any problems and impresses with its top quality. It is therefore no wonder that here water drinking cures are offered in many places, as they are the basis of treatment for so many things. Water - be it pure, with turmeric, lemon or ginger - is also the immune booster par excellence. Numerous spa and wellness hotels now offer their own "immune boost days", wellness packages with a coordinated culinary segment, so to speak. The healing and health-promoting effects of applying water externally have also been known for a long time: "There is healing in water; it is the simplest, cheapest and - when applied correctly - the safest remedy", as Sebastian Kneipp, the founder of the well-known Kneipp treatment methods, once knew. The approach named after Kneipp relies in particular on water applications; these are used preventively or curatively.
A real (wellness) trend are also visits to spas. Around the globe, there are sites that have been proven to have springs whose waters can heal. Healing springs can be naturally or artificially created outlets for healing water, which has been proven to have a healing, soothing or preventive effect on a wide range of illnesses. The application mostly takes place in baths or in thermal spa hotels. There is evidence that spas have existed since the Middle Ages, but the Asklepieia of ancient Greece should also be mentioned here. Even in Jesus' time, the Dead Sea was a popular place for the wealthy, who appreciated the beneficial power of the salty water. Even then, people relied on the unique combination of medical care and natural remedies in relaxing places. The purpose of a cure is to rebalance body and soul and to awaken new spirits - the health and well-being of the guests are the main focus in cure and thermal spa hotels in various regions of the world.
A journey to bring body and mind into harmony
The exceptional five-star Euphoria Retreat - A Holistic Wellbeing Destination Spa is located in the middle of the Taygetos Mountains in the Greek Peloponnese, beautifully nestled in the surrounding forest. Guests can expect unique architectural design inspired by Byzantine architecture. But the hotel also has a special philosophy apart from the architecture: the "Euphoria Retreat" is not just a hotel - guests who come here will discover a healing philosophy that aims to energize and balance them. Very quickly, you'll find a wellness program that suits you among a wide selection. Even a "post covid recovery program" is currently on offer, as well as a weight loss program - where the focus is on metabolism, bringing long-term success. Spa treatments are combined with a unique nutritional approach in the hotel's Wellbeing Detox programme; daily yoga sessions are just one of a number of activities on offer. Founder Marina Effaimoglou herself says, "When you explore 'Euphoria', we give you the keys to explore yourself. This exploration brings more freedom and happiness, it's an adventure without preconditions." The spa features a hammam, indoor and outdoor pools, including a "sphere pool," saunas, steam rooms, a Kneipp area, a tepidarium and more. Special attention is also paid to nutrition here: a special test provides guests with valuable information on how their respective metabolism processes food. Relaxation is also found in sleep: The 45 rooms and suites are exceptional in their design - the luxurious monastic furnishings are inspired by the iconography of the Byzantine era and subtly combine patterns, textures and colours to unique effect. Double room including breakfast from € 239,- per person.
Euphoria Retreat*****, euphoriaretreat.com
Mystras, Sparta, Greece
T: +30 2731 306111
The leading hotel icon of the Italian celebrity island
Located high on the mountain, the "Capri Palace Jumeirah" is a luxury hotel where guests can immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of Capri. Since the 1960s, the "Capri Palace" has been considered the leading hotel icon on the jet-set island - and this has not changed since the takeover by the Jumeirah Group. Here, a first-class spa area, dolce vita ambience including a panoramic view of the Gulf of Naples and first-class cuisine (including the restaurant "L'olivio", which is the only restaurant on the island to be decorated with two Michelin stars) come together. The Capri Medical Spa is the in-house medical spa, offering guests life-enhancing treatments with the groundbreaking medical spa concept. Guests enjoy wellness treatments tailored to each individual's goals, whether in single sessions or through multi-day spa packages - from weight loss and detoxification to anti-aging and stress management. This unique wellness philosophy aims to provide a holistic spa experience, combining the best of Western and Eastern traditions with an emphasis on medical and scientific principles and methods. The award-winning spa in Capri is under the direction of Professor Francesco Canonaco - the medical director of Capri Medical Spa has also developed and patented, after years of research, a unique method of treating vascular problems, christened "The Leg School". Even Hollywood stars swear by the aquatic therapy at the luxurious hotel in Anacapri on Capri. Speaking of Hollywood stars, one suite pays homage to regular guest Gwyneth Paltrow - this centrepiece boasts a chic and modern interior in monochrome tones. Double room including breakfast from € 362 per person.
Capri Palace Jumeirah Hotel & Spa*****, capripalace.com
Via Capodimonte 14, 80071 Isola di Capri, NA, Italy
T: +39 081 9780111
The ideal place for thalassotherapy
The location could not be more ideal for thalassotherapy. The "Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea & Spa" is nestled in the picturesque landscape of southern Brittany and offers a wide range of spa treatments with seawater combined with excellent culinary delights in this ideal thalassotherapy setting. At the heart of the five-star luxury resort is the state-of-the-art Thalassotherapy Institute, which offers a wide range of innovative and effective seawater treatments. Guests will find relaxation in the total of 125 luxurious rooms and suites, especially thanks to the exclusive bed concept "My Bed by Sofitel". From a culinary point of view, no wishes should remain unfulfilled - the refined authentic Breton cuisine by chef Patrick Barbin is delicious, healthy and based on local and seasonal products. Double room including breakfast from € 174,- per person.
Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea & Spa*****, sofitel-quiberon-thalassa.com
Bd Louison Bobet, 56170 Quiberon, France
T: +33 297 502000
The ultimate Mediterranean retreat
The Cypriot luxury hotel "Anassa", part of the luxury hotel group Thanos Hotels & Resorts, is rightly ennobled as the ultimate Mediterranean retreat. Based on the concept of a Roman-style wellness oasis, the Thalassa Spa at "Anassa" offers a wide range of therapies, from holistic rituals to thalassotherapy. Under towering Roman columns amid sun-drenched courtyards and healing thalassotherapy pools, infinite tranquility can be enjoyed. Culinary excellence, under the direction of chef David Goodridge, focuses on regionality. Retreat to rooms of sparkling elegance: the "Anassa" has 166 rooms, suites and residences. Flower-strewn gardens lead directly from the luxury hotel down to a beautiful sandy beach. Double room including breakfast from € 277,- per person.
Hotel Anassa*****, anassa.com
40, Alekou Michailidi Road, 8852 Neo Chorio, Cyprus
T: +357 26 888000
A source of strength in the Alps
The "Hotel Post Krimml" is a house with a unique alpine flair, which combines modern components and tradition in a particularly harmonious way. Close to the famous Krimml Waterfalls, this four-star hotel is located in the middle of the Hohe Tauern Nature Park and allows you to recharge your batteries - from the hotel's own panoramic sauna, for example, with a view of the Krimml Waterfalls included. The magnificent mountain panorama can also be enjoyed from the relaxation and yoga room; hostess Isabella is personally responsible for yoga sessions. Host Ernst Steger is responsible for giving guests tips on hikes and activities in the region - the restaurant's good reputation is in turn due to host Maria Steger. From a culinary point of view, a lot of emphasis is placed on regionality: Thus, jams, liqueurs or bread are made by the kitchen team itself (and are also available at the reception). Among other things, you can choose from the Panoramastüberl, sun terraces and a hotel bar. The rooms and suites of the hotel are all allergy-friendly. The hotel is a certified so-called "Hohe Tauern Health Hotel" - "Hohe Tauern Health" is a health initiative for allergy and asthma sufferers in conjunction with the healing power of the Krimml Waterfalls. According to various studies, the spray from the Krimml Waterfalls has been proven to be an exceptional natural remedy for asthma and allergies and is especially suitable for adults and children with allergic respiratory diseases. The hotel's rooms and suites also score highly with very spacious furnished balconies. A special tip is the 44 square meter suite "Bergliebe", which - like the rest of the four-star hotel - is furnished in an alpine-modern style. Natural materials set the tone here. Double room including breakfast from € 102,- per person.
Hotel Post Krimml****, hotelpost-krimml.at
Oberkrimml 18, 5743 Krimml, Austria
T: +43 6564 73580
Source of peace and strength in the heart of Europe
Marienbad is, on par with other European health resorts, the birthplace of modern, scientifically based health tourism. The luxury resort "Falkensteiner Marienbad" is located in the West Bohemian spa town. The hotel, rich in tradition and built in Art Nouveau style, offers an excellent wellness program in the renovated Acquapura Spa with five themed pools and the only heated outdoor pool in town. There is also a medical centre with its own spa doctor and multilingual team of therapists, as well as the hotel's own Alexandra spring for baths and drinking cures. The offer includes a Covid rehabilitation programme and the popular preventive cure "Alexandra Basic". The hotel's location on the Kaiserwald nature reserve is also top: the region in and around Marienbad offers a a wide range of leisure activities, sights and natural beauty. Double room including breakfast from € 92,- per person.
Falkensteiner Spa Resort Mariánské Lázně*****, falkensteiner.com
Ruská 123, 353 01 Mariánské Lázně, Czech Republic
T: +420 354 929399
One of the most famous thermal springs in Italy
For 3000 years the thermal water has been bubbling out of the earth here at a temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius. Already at the beginning of the 18th century, the thermal spring of Saturnia was considered a miracle cure for skin diseases, and even today people are convinced of this idea: the spring water of this thermal spring is sulphurous, rich in mineral salts, gases, etc.. When immersed in the spring, it is possible to detect the valuable active ingredient plankton, which has moisturizing properties. Also, the thermal water has a blood pressure lowering effect and it can achieve an increase in respiratory volume; in addition, it has an anti-aging effect for the liver, an exfoliating function and a deep antiseptic effect. It has also been shown to reduce tension in the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Double room including breakfast from € 297,- per person.
Terme di Saturnia Natural Spa*****, en.lhw.com
Via Follonata, 58014 Saturnia, Italy
T: +39 0564 600111
An exclusive oasis of calm
Im Herzen der norditalienischen Region Veneto und nicht weit von Padua und Venedig entfernt liegt das Hotel „Esplanade Tergesteo“ in Montegrotto Terme. Es ist eine stilvolle Oase der Ruhe und ein Ort, an dem altbekannte Heilkräfte des Thermalwassers auf ein überaus modernes und ansprechendes Ambiente treffen. Wahrlich ist der außergewöhnliche Stil des Hotels hervorzuheben: Es besticht durch eine stilvolle Kombination von einzigartigen Designobjekten, Holz, Marmor und anderen stimmigen Materialien. Die Region kann auf eine 1000-jährige Badetradition zurückblicken: Sehr bekannt in dieser Region ist die Thermalfangotherapie mit ihrer außergewöhnlichen therapeutischen Wirkung. Im Hotel werden diese Ressourcen der Natur nicht nur für die traditionelle Fangotherapie sondern auch für die innovativen Beauty Behandlungen verwendet. Die exklusiven Fango Uniko Bio Treatments eignen sich dank der hochwertigen, biologischen Bestandteile für jeden Hauttyp. Die Haut wird entgiftet und die Zellerneuerung angeregt. Zudem wird Cellulite gemildert und die Haut erstrahlt in neuem Glanz – innovativ und zu 100 Prozent natürlich Das Herzstück des Fünf-Sterne-Hotels sind jedoch die Thermalbäder: Der Innenpool, der direkt in den einzigartigen White Pool im Außenbereich übergeht, und der H2 O3-Pool mit Mikrobläschen aus Ozon stehen für eine perfekte Kombination aus Natur, Harmonie und Entspannung. Auch eine Adults-only-Area gibt es: Das RoofTop54 ist ein absolut einzig artiger Ort mit Salzwasserpool, textilfreier Sauna und verschiedenen Ruhe räumen. Im Wellnessbereich „Well 54“ erwarten die Gäste zudem verschiedene regenerierende Rituale und eine Vielzahl an exklusiven Retreats. Nicht zu kurz kommt auch der kulinarische Part: Das „Pepita Restaurant“ ist eine ideale Symbiose aus Geschmackserlebnis und Wohlfühlmomenten. Moderne Raffinesse und traditionelle italienische Kochkünste treffen hier gekonnt aufeinander. DZ ab € 324,– pro Nacht.
Esplanade Tergesteo – Luxury Retreat*****, esplanadetergesteo.it
Via Roma, 54, 35036 Montegrotto Terme PD, Italy
T: +39 049 8911777
Gurgling springs, healing waters, impressive mountain landscapes
At the foot of the Nockberge mountains rises this Carinthian wellness hotel with its own spa, award-winning cuisine (with the "Loystubn") and its own health centre. The five-star "Thermenwelt Hotel Pulverer" in Bad Kleinkirchheim has a thermal landscape covering a generous 2100 m2. There is a choice of more than 30 different massages. The "Thermenwelt Hotel Pulverer" also relies on the power of the Alps and their herbs. Special offers are available in summer - the credo here is: "Enjoy, immerse yourself in a new (wellness) world and let yourself be pampered." As a treat, there is a pampering voucher for the hotel's own Vitaloase, and that for four nights from just 584 euros per person. Otherwise, the price in a double room including breakfast is from € 118, - per person.
Thermenwelt Hotel Pulverer*****, pulverer.at
Thermenstraße 4, 9546 Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria
T: +43 4240 744
The source of tranquility
In 1975, oil was drilled in Bad Waltersdorf - instead of black gold, hot, healing springs were discovered. In the Heiltherme Bad Waltersdorf, natural materials and the view of the lush greenery of Eastern Styria come together and make the spa, which was completely redesigned in 2015, the ideal place to relax. The 4-star Quellenhotel is located directly adjacent to the spa. Quellenhotel guests also have access to the Quellenoase hotel spa. The energy of the thermal water is of course central, and can be felt in the pools as well as in the Kneipp facility or along the massage route. Officially recognised as medicinal water, the pleasantly warm water has a proven relaxing effect on body and soul, is good for the skin, tightens the connective tissue and activates the self-healing and defence forces. Double room from € 141,- per person.
Heiltherme Quellenhotel Bad Waltersdorf****, heiltherme.at
Thermenstraße 111, 8271 Bad Waltersdorf, Austria
T: +43 3333 3150-0
A very special water and a very special house
The well-known Tamina spring, located in the middle of the foothills of the Alps in eastern Switzerland, is considered to be the most water-rich acratotherm in Europe. The water has a wide range of health effects - from the musculoskeletal system to diseases of the cardiovascular system, many areas of illness are included. The buoyancy with its joint-relieving and thus pain-relieving effect should also be emphasised. The water pressure is also ideal for people with venous diseases: The water compresses the veins and arteries from the outside. The healing water from the Tamina Gorge is also something special for healthy people: after a bath, the skin feels velvety soft, moreover, relaxation is promoted, the muscles are loosened and the immune system is strengthened. The thermal water world of the hotel's own thermal spa includes the historic Helenabad, the Sportbad, the Family Spa and the Garden Pool with a view of the mountains. Guests draw new strength and vitality - this is what makes a stay at the "Grand Resort Bad Ragaz" so special. The experience of the luxury hotel is based on centuries of bathing and healing tradition. This has resulted in a unique combination of its own thermal spring, holistic medical expertise and the diversity of a five-star luxury resort. Incidentally, hotel guests have free access to the bathing facilities of the public thermal spa "Tamina Therme". Culinary delights at the highest level are also a tradition at the "Grand Resort Bad Ragaz". The restaurants stand for authenticity, gastronomic variety and exclusivity. There is a choice of seven restaurants, three bars, a bistro, a sushi take-away and a café. Since this year, the "Grand Resort Bad Ragaz" sparkles in the light of fabulous five Michelin stars. In addition, there is a broad culinary spectrum ranging from Asian specialities to innovative Swiss Alpine cuisine. A water sommelier is also part of the team at the "Grand Resort Bad Ragaz". Guests can choose between three styles in the rooms and suites of the two grand hotels: timeless elegance, purist design or a modern, elegant atmosphere.
stylish comfort. Double room from € 465,- per night.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz*****, resortragaz.ch
Bernhard-Simonstrasse, 7310 Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
T: +41 81 3033030
