Life
Hydrotherapy is making a comeback with wellness entrepreneurs debuting concepts centered on the therapeutic powers of water. Here, we’re making a shortlist of escapes for some well-deserved dips, from Switzerland to Japan.
WALDSPA AT NATURHOTEL FORSTHOFGUT – LEOGANG, AUSTRIA
Off the ski slopes and amongst the impressive Leogang Rocky Mountains lie Forsthofgut, a luxurious scenic retreat that puts the focus on therapeutic waters. Right in the middle of a garden, this unique property is surrounded by meadows and forests. At the heart of this tranquil oasis is a 30,000-square-meter bathing lake and a lake infinity pool that delivers pure relaxation all-year long. There is also the Finnish lake sauna that is part of this unique place of power and ritual that comes with a panoramic window and direct mountain views.
HOSHINOYA – TOKYO, JAPAN
At the luxurious hotel chain — owned by hospitality group Hoshino Resorts and designed by the renowned Tokyo-based architect Rie Azuma — the concept of onsen or natural geothermal pools are designed to induce a zen-like sense of calm in the middle of a hustling and bustling city. In this high-rise ryokan in Tokyo, the Otemachi Onsen at Hoshinoya features a salty hot spring where guests can enjoy a restorative dip to alleviate a fatigued body and mind, with striking views of the Tokyo skyline.
EYNSHAM BATHS AT ESTELLE MANOR – OXFORDSHIRE, UNITED KINGDOM
Nestled in a hotel and country club, Estelle Manor, this countryside escape houses a grand 3,000-square-meter space inspired by days of yore of Roman villa ruins with its neoclassical architecture featuring sculpted stone columns, grand pillars, and carved marble details. Immerse yourself at the Eynsham Baths’s different thermal areas, from a Frigidarium to Caldarium, Tepidarium to Hay or completely detach and indulge in the Wim Hof Method Breathwork class — a 50-minute dedicated wellness session for breathwork pool to restore the body and mind in its optimal state.
THE BLUE LAGOON, SKY LAGOON – ICELAND
Every aspect of the Retreat is architected for well-being wonder. Its design framework takes inspiration from its surrounding frontier, offering breathtaking views of Iceland’s unique environment. At the geothermal lagoon, float on mineral-rich waters that exude a meditative and healing energy – all you need to do is detach and relax.
7132 – VALS, SWITZERLAND
At 7132, the luxe property offers a traditional hotel stay with a unique “Therme” atmosphere. Featuring highly mineral-infused thermal baths with water that comes out of the St. Peter springs at 30° Celsius, guests can enjoy deeply relaxing daily soaks, a practice meant to calm nerves and boost the immune system. Created by Peter Zumthor, it is made from 60,000 slabs of Vals quartzite and was granted protected heritage status shortly after completion.
AMANEMU – ISE-SHIMA, JAPAN
Overlooking Ago Bay in Mie Prefecture, the Amanemu Spa gives a polished and modern nod on the traditional practice of onsen pools. The property’s pièce de resistance is a 2,000-square-meter spa which showcases various wellness and hydrotherapy facilities plus, an onsen pool with natural waters rich in healing minerals and adorned with all the makings of a an indulgent escape including a sunken pit furnished with a garden, daybeds and a fireplace for an extra touch of cosy.
