| Best known in winter for its ski resorts, Aosta Valley, the smallest region in Italy is also home to magnificent spa facilities. Not surprisingly, wellness tourism is not new to Aosta, having formed the basis of its nascent tourism industry which gathered pace in the early 1800s, while the curative properties of its natural thermal springs were known back in Roman times. Here is our top pick of popular wellness spots to clear your head and unwind: The natural springs of Pré Saint Didier: Since 1800, this majestic spa located at the foot of Mont Blanc features the elegance of the nineteenth-century palace, with breath-taking views of the Mont Blanc Mountain. Just a few kilometres from the ski resorts of Courmayeur and La Thuile, this is an ideal starting point to explore the region in every season and to fully restore in invigorating waterfalls, whirlpools with thermal water from the depths of the Orrido river and wood chalet-saunas combining all the scents of the mountain. Today, as in the past, these waters are highly valued for their healthy properties with benefits including making the skin softer, facilitating blood circulation and muscle movements, giving relief to the body and mind. Thanks also to the presence of iron, this water has a tonic and restorative value too. More information here. Terme di Saint-Vincent which owes its location to the discovery of the mineral-rich thermal spring at Saint-Vincent in 1770, whose curative qualities earned it the moniker of Fons Salutis, or spring of health. Open year round, the modern facility is the result of a major redevelopment programme begun in 2007. Aside from its trademark treatments such as hydrotherapy, massotherapy and inhalation therapy, major selling points include the picture windows and panoramic terraced pool area which make the most of the jaw-drop views. More information here. Monterosa Spa: for those who prefer a day of wellbeing for the whole family, this is an ideal choice. Located in the heart of the Aosta Valley in Champoluc, at the foot of Monte Rosa and facing one of the most imposing glaciers in the Alps, the SPA Centre is easily accessible during all seasons from the main roads. Younger children can enter the swimming pool area, where there is a dedicated shallow pool as well as aquatic play material available. In addition, there is also a dedicated facility where children can stay, while parents wish to enjoy the wellness of the Spa Area or want to go skiing on one of the ski slopes in Champoluc. More information here. Every corner of the region is transformed into a new opportunity to regenerate your whole body and relax. Aosta Valley is also home to Alpine pools such as Chécrouit in Courmayeur – at an altitude of 1,700 meters – and Les Suches dessous (La Thuile) – at an altitude of 2,088 meters – which are perfect for devoting yourself to rest and relaxation among the Alps. |
