Clinique La Prairie, Switzerland
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Swiss Alps, Clinique La Prairie stands as an emblem of unparalleled luxury and holistic well-being. For over 90 years, this award-winning wellness retreat founded on the cellular therapy breakthroughs of Professor Paul Niehans has crafted an extraordinary experience that intertwines advanced medical expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a profound understanding of the human body and spirit. You go to La Prairie with the hope of longevity, and you come away with the secrets to it, with a little help from the 50 leading medical specialists on site, and over 200 clinical experts. The retreat’s illustrious repertoire encompasses a broad spectrum of areas, ranging from preventive medicine and revitalizing beauty treatments to regenerative therapies and groundbreaking anti-aging interventions. These include advanced cellular therapies, detoxification programs, state-of-the-art diagnostic assessments, and rejuvenating aesthetic procedures. It’s like a tuning-up shop for the wealthy and weary.
Lanserhof, Germany
Your guts. That’s what the good white-coated folks at Lanserhof are interested in. Developed over three decades based on elements of naturopathy, energy medicine, psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, chronomedicine and modern cutting-edge medicine, the brains at the Lanserhof start the regeneration process with sensitive detoxification, purification and deacidification programmes, before diving in with individual therapeutic applications, and comprehensive diagnostics. In plain English, they leave no stone unturned. The three resorts – Tegernsee and Sylt in Germany, and Lans in Austria – are each quite different aesthetically, with Lans and Tegernsee being closer to the chalet experience, while Sylt is as you would imagine a hermetically sealed alien spacecraft might look like. WHile you’re there, you’ll have the pleasure of dining out on the ‘Lanserhof Energy Cuisine’, and no, that doesn’t mean bottles of Prime on tap, but rather daily wheatgrass shots and menus specifically curated to cleanse your body.
Buchinger Wilhelmi, Germany
Buchinger Wilhelmi in Lake Constance, where Germany rubs shoulders with Austria and Switzerland, is a beacon of rejuvenation and holistic well-being. With a legacy spanning over a century, this award-winning establishment has honed its expertise in promoting comprehensive health through its bespoke programs. Just don’t expect a great buffet breakfast, because at the heart of Buchinger Wilhelmi is its renowned fasting program, which forms the cornerstone of its philosophy. Under the guidance of skilled physicians and therapists, guests undergo a carefully supervised fasting regime, allowing the body to detoxify and regenerate, leading to improved vitality and heightened self-awareness. The retreat’s serene setting and state-of-the-art facilities provide an idyllic backdrop for this transformative journey. Beyond physical rejuvenation, Buchinger Wilhelmi imparts invaluable tools for sustaining long-term well-being. Through educational workshops and lectures, guests gain insights into nutrition, mindful living, and stress management, empowering them to embrace healthier lifestyles beyond their stay.
Stanglwirt Resort, Austria
For those wellness nuts who like their cutting-edge spa resorts with a rustic, alpine patina then may we suggest you head straight to Austria’s family-run Stanglwirt Resort, where your stay will be narrated by the jingle of cow bells and the optimistic chirp of birds of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. Where Stanglwirt is different from all others is that it is both an organic farm and a five-star luxury and wellness resort. Oh, and the fact that it has been the site of wellness in some form or other for over 400 years. Stanglwirt’s angle isn’t cutting edge tech and deus ex machina clinical programmes, but rather a much more holistic approach… that includes golf. Think of Stanglwirt as a battery recharge, rather than a complete fuel-system overhaul. The spa centre features five different types of sauna, while the water world is replete with calming grottos, waterfalls, saltwater pool, lake, and more. Also unlike all the rest, Stanglwirt is family friendly so your progeny can be off boosting their immune systems in the 200-year-old farm. They also offer a spa package designed specifically for teenagers, but you might want to keep that on the down-low.
Palazzo Fiuggi, Italy
Palazzo Fiuggi is renowned for its comprehensive health programs, meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of each guest. From detoxification and weight management to stress reduction and anti-aging, the retreat boasts a diverse range of therapeutic experiences that cater to both mind and body. With a team of esteemed wellness experts, including nutritionists, fitness trainers, and holistic practitioners, guests are guided through personalized programs tailored to their goals and aspirations. Traditional healing practices, such as hydrotherapy and Ayurvedic treatments, coexist with cutting-edge technologies like cryotherapy and biofeedback. The retreat’s state-of-the-art facilities, including luxurious spa suites, an infinity pool, and tranquil gardens, create an ambiance of serenity and tranquility. Foodies needn’t worry about missing out. While you certainly won’t be encouraged to ask for seconds, you can rest assured that the quality of food will be unlike anything that he ever passed your lips: the menu has been developed by senescence and genetics specialist Professor David Della Morte Canosci, in collaboration with resident three-star Michelin chef Heinz Beck, who also boasts an honorary degree in Natural Bio-Energies and Naturopathy.
Mayrlife, Austria
Medical Health resort Mayrlife sits on the shore of Lake Altaussee in Austria and specialises in healing and detoxifying, with a specific focus on gut health. Dramatically rejuvenated alumni include the now svelte comedian/actress Rebel Wilson. As with all of the resorts listed here, Mayrlife boasts its own wellness concept, which consists of six essential elements: Modern Mayr Medicine (pioneered by founder Dr FX Mayr; a comprehensive holistic health programme; complete personalisation; targeted stimulation of cell renewal; innovative cutting-edge therapies; and tailored nutrition. The typical day begins at around 6.30pm with a morning drink to colon cleanse (there’s no messing about at Mayrlife) and finishes at 9pm with a liver wrap and the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had in your life. In between, you will have worked out, had a bunch of personal therapies, and three custom-curated meals. The views aren’t too shabby either.
Ryan Thompson is a UK-based menswear and lifestyle writer, whose work has appeared in, among others, the Financial Times, Mr Porter, The Rake and Ape to Gentleman
