Europe’s Healthiest Destinations for a Rejuvenating Trip

Europe offers an incredible variety of travel experiences, from vibrant cities to scenic landscapes, but there are also destinations that provide the ultimate retreat for those looking to rejuvenate their body and mind. Whether you’re seeking wellness resorts, natural hot springs, or quiet getaways in nature, Europe has a wealth of destinations perfect for restoring your health and well-being.

In this article, we highlight some of Europe’s healthiest destinations that promise a rejuvenating trip, offering everything from luxurious spa experiences to outdoor activities that nourish the body and soul. As always, to protect your health, make sure you're covered for your existing health conditions before you travel.

1. Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Switzerland has long been a destination known for its wellness offerings, and Lake Geneva is one of the top spots for rejuvenation. Surrounded by the majestic Alps and lush vineyards, this serene location provides an ideal environment for relaxation. Wellness resorts offer state-of-the-art spa treatments, fitness centers, and world-class facilities to help you unwind.

What makes Lake Geneva unique is its combination of natural beauty and health-enhancing activities. You can take part in hiking, yoga retreats, and even meditation classes while enjoying the breath taking views of the lake and mountains. The crisp, clean air and tranquillity of the region make it a perfect destination for mental and physical well-being.

2. Budapest, Hungary



Known for its historical thermal baths, Budapest is an excellent destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation and health benefits. The city is home to some of Europe’s most famous bathhouses, including the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Gellért Baths, which offer natural thermal waters known for their healing properties.

In addition to the baths, Budapest offers wellness hotels, like the Corinthia Hotel Budapest, where you can indulge in spa treatments, massages, and beauty therapies. The city also has a vibrant food scene focused on healthy, fresh ingredients, with numerous restaurants offering plant-based and organic dishes. A trip to Budapest provides a perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and wellness.

3. Tuscany, Italy



Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and rustic charm, Tuscany is not just a destination for food lovers—it’s also an ideal place for those looking to recharge and focus on wellness. Many of the region’s luxurious countryside resorts and spa hotels offer holistic treatments, from wine therapy to olive oil massages, inspired by the local traditions.

Castello di Casole is a renowned wellness resort that provides rejuvenating treatments, yoga retreats, and fitness programs. The region’s peaceful surroundings are perfect for walking and hiking in nature, and the fresh air paired with the Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, makes Tuscany a great destination for overall well-being.

4. Iceland



Iceland has become one of Europe’s most popular wellness destinations due to its unique combination of natural beauty and healing geothermal resources. The country is dotted with hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and spectacular waterfalls, making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

The Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous wellness spots, is a geothermal spa with silica-rich water that offers a range of skin treatments. Located in the heart of a lava field, the lagoon offers a magical and soothing experience. Iceland is also known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming in natural hot springs, and exploring its vast wilderness, all of which provide both physical and mental benefits.

5. The Swiss Alps, Switzerland



For those seeking a wellness retreat that combines the invigorating benefits of nature with luxurious spa treatments, the Swiss Alps are the place to be. Towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald offer stunning landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.

Many resorts in the region, like the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, offer a range of wellness services, from hydrotherapy to massage and holistic healing. The fresh mountain air and spectacular alpine vistas contribute to a sense of calm and renewal, making the Swiss Alps an ideal destination for rejuvenation. Whether you're hiking through lush meadows or relaxing in a spa, the Swiss Alps provide the perfect balance of physical activity and rest.

6. The French Riviera, France



While the French Riviera is famous for its glamorous beaches and lively cities, it’s also home to a variety of wellness retreats and health-focused resorts. With its Mediterranean climate, the region offers plenty of sunshine and fresh air, perfect for a rejuvenating vacation.

Destinations like Nice and Cannes feature luxury hotels that offer health and wellness programs, including spa treatments, yoga sessions, and fitness activities. The Château de la Chèvre d'Or in Èze, for example, offers a stunning setting with a spa focused on holistic treatments. The mild climate, combined with access to Mediterranean cuisine, rich in fresh seafood and vegetables, ensures a relaxing and health-boosting experience.

7. Madeira, Portugal



Madeira, a lush, volcanic island off the coast of Portugal, is known for its stunning scenery and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for a rejuvenating trip. The island offers numerous wellness hotels that combine luxury with holistic treatments, including massages, hydrotherapy, and natural skincare.

A great place to stay is the Belmond Reid’s Palace, which offers a variety of wellness programs, including fitness classes and spa treatments designed to help you unwind and rejuvenate. The island’s beautiful botanical gardens, rich in exotic plants, and the crystal-clear waters make it a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and nature walks.

8. Mallorca, Spain



The island of Mallorca in Spain offers more than just sun, sea, and sand; it’s also an excellent destination for wellness-focused travelers. The island is home to several luxurious spa resorts like Fontsanta Hotel Thermal Spa, which takes advantage of natural thermal waters to offer revitalizing treatments.

Mallorca’s varied landscapes—ranging from sandy beaches to rugged mountains—provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and yoga. The Mediterranean climate and fresh, healthy cuisine also contribute to the island’s rejuvenating qualities.

Conclusion

Europe offers a wide array of destinations for those seeking a rejuvenating trip that focuses on health and wellness. Whether you’re looking to relax in natural hot springs, explore the outdoors, or indulge in spa treatments, these destinations provide a perfect mix of physical rejuvenation and mental relaxation. From the healing waters of Budapest to the serene landscapes of Tuscany and the Swiss Alps, there’s a European destination to help you recharge, reset, and return home feeling revitalized.

Note: The photographs in this article are courtesy of wikipedia.org and have been borrowed under the creative commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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Best 6 Exceptionally Romantic Destinations around the World to Visit in 2019

For a romantic sojourn, the options are endless in the world. In fact, every country has few hotspots that it uses to promote it as a romantic destination. But, when all you think about is secluded serenity amid breath taking panoramas or a dreamlike location to sway away your sweetheart and awaken warm, fuzzy feelings, then certain destinations ace every component of a quixotic ambiance. One such destination is Maldives which is certainly the top choice for any honeymoon traveller or romantic couples. Apart from this, here are our top 6 romantic destinations which we feel have unique combinations of elements for an exceptional romantic holiday.

1) Dubai, United Arab Emirates



Dubai never ceases to amaze its visitors. Though the emirate is popularly known for its iconic architectural structures and futuristic concepts, there are plenty of places to see and things to do in Dubai for couples and newlyweds.  Discover the beauty of Dubai desert on an early morning hot air balloon ride.  Spend your evenings watching illuminated vistas of Dubai skyline on a Dubai Dhow Cruise at Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. Dine at Burj Khalifa’s Atmosphere or Madeleine Café & Boulangerie while enjoying charming views of the beautiful Dubai Fountain. If you are looking for luxury experiences, definitely you won't find opulence anywhere else as you would find in Dubai. Spoil your beloved with a stay in an underwater suite in Atlantis the Palm, spend a  night in the solace of the silent desert and starry skies at chic desert resorts or experience luxury at the finest at the most luxurious hotel in the world - Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Whatever experience you choose, Dubai assures you that it will be some of the most memorable moments of your life.

2) Zermatt, Switzerland

Serene ambiances, stunning natural vistas and a hint of adventure welcome you at Zermatt. A stroll through this quaint village dotted with Swiss chalets, shops and cafes nestled at the foot of wintry mountainous terrain feels incredibly romantic. Zermatt is also completely car-free which means you are far away from bustling sounds of the modern world and can have nonchalant strolls in calm surrounds or a horse carriage ride through the township. The village looks absolutely breath taking along the majestic backdrop of snow-clad mountains. Zermatt offers various walking trails which is one of the most serene and romantic experiences to witness in the lap of nature’s splendour.   At the edge of the village is one of the most iconic mountain peaks of Switzerland – Matterhorn. Experience the best of Zermatt’s natural beauty with rail tours to Matterhorn. Likewise, you can also arrive at Zermatt on the shuttle train service or you can enjoy a scenic journey on the Glacier Express which takes you through St. Moritz to Zermatt. During winters, this charming village offers a plethora of winter sports activities and is one of the best spots in Europe to enjoy a skiing experience if you want a touch of adventure in your romantic sojourn.

3) Koh Lipe, Thailand



Thailand is no doubt one of the most budget-friendly destinations preferred for a romantic interlude. Its idyllic beaches and azure waters are major attractions as honeymoon getaways. However, the most overhyped and popular beach destinations such as Phuket and Krabi are now crowded by tourists making it lose its secluded charm and thereby not able to provide the serene and secluded ambiances desired for a romantic getaway. Nonetheless, there are many more isles in Thailand that are not yet swarmed by tourists and offer the perfect blend of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and tropical sunshine. One such hidden gem is the Koh Lipe - an island located within the Tarutao  Marine Park. Teeming with crystal emerald waters, gorgeous sandy stretches of beach shores and verdant forests, it is an ideal place for secluded relaxation. The underwater realm around the isle has some of the best corals and marine life making this a beautiful place for scuba diving and snorkelling.

4) Tuscany, Italy



One of the most gorgeous places to travel in Italy, Tuscany offers a splendid Italian countryside experience. The region has a flawless mélange of Italian architecture, nature scenery, culture, and food scene.  However, the dreamlike landscapes and hazy ambiance sets the scene for a blissful romantic getaway. Start your romantic holiday with a Florentine romance at the historic city. Next, soak in the Tuscan beauty on a hot air ballooning ride over the countryside. The sight of centuries-old structures, rolling vineyards, and undulating green mountains is truly breath taking. Spend your evenings amid stunning sunsets at Castiglione Della Pescaia or unwind with a relaxing dip at the thermal springs of Saturnia or Bagno Vignoni. Don’t forget to raise a toast to your togetherness with some of the finest wines of Chianti vineyards.

5) Hawaii, United States of America



A secluded island away from the mainland of United States of America, Hawaii is amazingly different from the rest of the country. Brimming with tropical foliage, rugged cliffs, brilliant blue waters, serene beaches, and volcanic terrains, Hawaii offers an amazing setting to live like an islander even though you are in the USA. Feel the wind in your hair and taste the salt in the air - Hawaii is all about living carefree. You and your beloved would love to get off the grid of daily grind and spend some time amid nature’s pristine beauty. Laze around on the beach or catch a wave while surfing, Get pampered at relaxing spas or enjoy an exquisite tropical dining experience, every moment spent on the island will make you fall in love more with each other and with the destination.

6) Kerala, India



One of the most beautiful places on the earth is rightly called ‘The God’s own country.’ The State of Kerala in Southern India is a refreshing blend of verdant foliage and entwined backwaters. While the southern part presents a gorgeous fusion of brooks and verdant green landscapes, the north offers gorgeous cascades, rainforests and verdant hill stations. Stay in a houseboat which silently glides through pristine backwaters, camp under the starry skies of verdant jungles, stroll around misty tea plantations or rejuvenate with a traditional spa treatment that melts away your stress. Kerala is the best place to enjoy romantic serenity with a touch of holistic essence.

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Guest Post: Buon appetito!

Fed up with microwave Bolognese or the same old choices from the pizza menu? Try sampling the food in Tuscany and Sicily, two of Italy’s most famous regions for foodies.

If you had to name one European region that had food and wine at its very essence, it would be hard not to choose Tuscany in the north-west of Italy. Tuscany holidays are all about spectacular rolling countryside dappled in sunlight and glasses of chilled Chianti, but they are also about fantastically authentic Italian food.

The gateway to discovering this wonderful gastronomic heritage is the city of Florence, home of the Renaissance and a destination that will spark a rebirth in your interest in great food, no matter how tired your palate. Forget molecular cuisine and gourmet meals, the key here is simplicity, and there’s nothing like filling a basket from a small deli with schiacciata bread, marzolino cheese and some Tuscan salami. Find a spot in one of the beautiful city gardens and soak up the flavours in the afternoon sun.

In the surrounding countryside, the famed wine regions of Chianti and Montalcino await. Most of the experiences here centre around the vineyards, and instead of the bargain bin at the supermarket, you can taste superbly-made Montepulciano and Chianti the way they were meant to be drunk – surrounded by the beauty of Tuscany. There are hidden Michelin-starred restaurants dotted around the region, but perhaps best of all are the family-run trattorias, where the most flavourful of dishes are served up in simple, honest surroundings.

You can choose from a host of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as a backdrop to your foodie adventure, from the cathedral and square in Pisa to the historic centres of San Gimignano and Pienza. The outstanding beauty of the region comes though in all of its best-loved dishes, from wild boar pappardelle to white truffles and Florentine steaks. With so much visual and culinary distraction around, it’s amazing that the famous artists of the region got any work done at all.

Good food and drink spans Italy, of course, and you can travel the whole length of the country discovering exciting specialities, even all the way down to the glorious Mediterranean island of Sicily. (If you look at a map, it’s the ‘ball’ being kicked by the Italian mainland.) Holidays in Sicily are just as appealing as those in Tuscany for foodies. Its very different landscape and culture offers uniquely interesting items to the menu. The warm Mediterranean climate means that fresh citrus fruits, olives and all manner of herbs and spices are readily available, and the diverse cultures that have influenced the island – Arabic, Spanish and Greek among others – have all left their mark on the food.

Wander around any of the markets in places such as Palermo, Ragusa or Catania, and you can pick up delicacies such as arancine (rice balls) or sfincione, which is a regional pizza with the distinction of being made without cheese. Many of the recipes go back hundreds of years as Sicily is one of Italy’s most historic regions. There’s even a strong argument that Italy’s most famous dish – spaghetti – was invented here.

Given the abundance of fruits, it’s no surprise that the desserts in Sicily are nothing short of spectacular. The soft texture of gelato ice cream is known across the globe, and here you can sample some of the most authentic flavours, from pistachio to floral favourites such as jasmine. Another diet-challenging sweet is cannoli, the long tubular pastry usually served with ricotta cheese and – in the best places – small chunks of candied fruit.

Again, there are historic attractions to explore and work off a few calories. Among them are the UNESCO-recognised Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the mosaics of the Villa Romana del Casale.

All of this adds to the sheer pleasure of eating Italian food the way it was meant to be eaten, surrounded by culture, sunshine and the odd carafe of wine. Buon appetito!

About the Author: Paul Oswell is a freelance travel writer based in the UK. Over the years he has visited and written about many European destinations. His favourite Italian food is Spaghetti alle vongole.

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