As if the Tuscan island of Elba wasn't close enough to paradise on earth as it is, were you aware that it is also home to a world famous and exceptionally beautiful spa? The Thermal Baths of San Giovanni, located in front of Portoferraio gulf, are known for the healthy properties of its waters. Built in a thermal basin over five hectares of muddy land, rich in iron, iodine and sulphur, are the perfect natural setting for the ultimate day of relaxation. Between the stunning surroundings and naturally occurring ingredients, it's certainly unlike most spas you'll visit. Why not find a luxury villa on the Tuscan Coast and take a day out to experience the Thermal Baths of San Giovanni for yourself?
It was the Romans, who ruled Elba after the Ligurians and the Etruscans, who were the first to discover the health benefits of hydrotherapy and spas. Their fondness for this lead to the appearance of public baths all around the Empire.
Portoferraio, or Fabricia as the Romans called it, was a particularly popular resort destination during Augustus’s time with many powerful families choosing to build their villas there. Even the imperial family and the court went there to rest.
Portoferraio, or Fabricia as the Romans called it, was a particularly popular resort destination during Augustus’s time with many powerful families choosing to build their villas there. Even the imperial family and the court went there to rest.
To reach the thermal baths of San Giovanni, you have to take a ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio and head to the Medici Harbour. The spa is situated across from the harbour and is surrounded by extensive grounds, leading all the way down to the sea. The gardens have been planted with eucalyptus, palms and tamarisks and guests can stroll around the scenic grounds and relax before and after treatments. It is also one of the few humid areas left on the island and as soon as you enter the grounds, you are welcomed by the intense and beautiful smell of the trees. The curative aspects of the properties of the waters and treatments are enhanced and go hand-in-hand with the mental well-being and relaxation, inspired by the isolation from sources of noise and atmospheric pollution that the location offers.
The Spa practices Thalassotherapy, a type of treatment that offers the many benefits of the sea through its water, mud, seaweeds and marine plants using sea water baths. You can also try out their mud baths which have a very good scientific classification and are considered one of the best in Italy. These treatments have also been seen to be a miracle combination for the treatment of arthrosis and rheumatisms. There are also medical consultations available for a range of complaints and beauty treatments which target the likes of psoriasis and acne as well.
Whether you're looking to cure an ache or illness, relax or pamper yourself, this is the place for you. Plus, Elba is well worth a visit.
The Spa practices Thalassotherapy, a type of treatment that offers the many benefits of the sea through its water, mud, seaweeds and marine plants using sea water baths. You can also try out their mud baths which have a very good scientific classification and are considered one of the best in Italy. These treatments have also been seen to be a miracle combination for the treatment of arthrosis and rheumatisms. There are also medical consultations available for a range of complaints and beauty treatments which target the likes of psoriasis and acne as well.
Whether you're looking to cure an ache or illness, relax or pamper yourself, this is the place for you. Plus, Elba is well worth a visit.
Photo credits
picture 1: Michael Joachim Lucke / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 3: Michael Joachim Lucke / CC BY-SA 3.0
picture 1: Michael Joachim Lucke / CC BY-SA 3.0;
picture 3: Michael Joachim Lucke / CC BY-SA 3.0
