Travel
Liz reviews Terme di Saturnia: ‘a relaxed retreat for mind, body, and soul’
Liz Earle shares a review of her stay at Terme di Saturnia, a luxury Italian spa resort.
Imagine a place where the healing powers of nature meet the comfort of luxury. A sanctuary where you can soak in mineral-rich waters, indulge in revitalising spa treatments, and let your worries melt away.
Welcome to Terme di Saturnia, a stunning oasis in the heart of Tuscany that offers a holistic wellness experience like no other. Join me as I take you on a journey through this enchanting retreat, sharing the benefits of its thermal waters, algae treatments, and even a cool new addition – the Cryo chamber.
Aquatic bliss at Terme di Saturnia
The magic of thermal waters
As soon as you step into Terme di Saturnia, you’re greeted by the soothing sound of flowing water and the subtle scent of sulfur. It’s the thermal springs that steal the show here, bubbling up from the earth at a blissful 37.5°C. These waters have been revered for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. The mineral-rich composition – think sulfur, magnesium and more – works wonders on the body. It’s powerful stuff, which is why it’s advised to leave jewellery and watches in the room safe – even the mineralised air can cause tarnishing over time!
The first dip into the thermal pool feels like a warm, welcoming hug. The waters are naturally soothing, and within minutes, you can feel the stress and tension begin to dissipate. But there’s more to these waters than just relaxation. The high sulfur content is a natural anti-inflammatory, perfect for easing joint pain and muscle soreness. It’s also great for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, making your skin feel soft and smooth after just one soak. The difference in my skin post-dips was discernible.
As you float in these magical waters, you can almost feel the minerals being absorbed into your skin, rejuvenating it from the inside out. My sore knees and tight shoulders eased almost immediately. It’s a feeling of lightness; a sensation of being cleansed not just physically but also mentally.
The power of algae and thermal plankton
Next on the agenda is something I was particularly excited to try – the algae treatments. Terme di Saturnia boasts a unique type of thermal plankton that thrives in its waters. Pockets of black algae even float around the outdoor pools, perfect for rubbing over the skin as you soak. This microscopic algae is rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse for skin care.
The spa offers a range of professional algae-based treatments, including their signature Thermal Plankton Facial – a luxurious mask infused with the algae known for their detoxifying properties, drawing out impurities and leaving the skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated. And it’s not just about facials. The spa also offers body wraps and scrubs that incorporate this incredible ingredient. I loved the Thermal Plankton Body Wrap, a full-body treatment that hydrates the skin, improves elasticity, and stimulates cell regeneration. My skin felt incredibly soft and looked really radiant afterwards.
The chill factor: Cryo chamber
Now, let’s talk about the coolest experience at Terme di Saturnia – literally! The Cryo chamber is a relatively new addition to the spa’s wellness offerings, and it’s as exhilarating as it sounds. Cryotherapy involves exposing your body to extremely cold temperatures for a short period, and it’s said to have numerous health benefits, from reducing inflammation and combatting cellulite to boosting metabolism and speeding weight-loss.
Entering the Cryo chamber is an experience in itself. Wearing a woolly headband, mitts and booties, you step into a futuristic-looking room that quickly drops to a frigid -86°C. Yes, it’s cold, but it’s also invigorating. The session lasts just a few minutes, but that’s all you need to feel the effects. The cold stimulates blood flow, which helps reduce muscle pain and speeds up recovery. It’s also a fantastic way to boost your mood and energy levels, thanks to the endorphin rush you get from the cold exposure.
Culinary delights and more
No wellness retreat is complete without nourishing food, and Terme di Saturnia doesn’t disappoint. The focus is on fresh, local ingredients with daily specials and light options for those wishing to shed a few pounds during their stay. There’s also an extensive cocktail and wine list…
For those who want to dive deeper into their wellness journey, the resort offers various programs, including yoga, meditation, and mindfulness workshops. These sessions are held in serene surroundings, often overlooking the stunning Tuscan countryside. It’s the perfect setting to reconnect with yourself, find inner peace, and learn new techniques for managing stress and anxiety.
Final thoughts
Terme di Saturnia is more than just a spa resort; it’s a holistic haven that offers a unique blend of relaxation, rejuvenation, and wellness. Whether you’re soaking in the mineral-rich thermal waters, indulging in algae-infused treatments, or braving the icy chill of the Cryo chamber, every experience here is designed to nurture your body and soul.
For anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Terme di Saturnia is the perfect retreat. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, let go of your worries, and focus on yourself. The combination of natural beauty, luxurious amenities, and a holistic approach to wellness makes it a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on the world. So, pack your bags, leave your stress behind, and let Terme di Saturnia work its magic. Trust me; you won’t regret it.
€350,00 per night per room, including breakfast and spa acces.
Day passes are also available for the public thermal baths.
