Wellness Paths for Body and Mind in South Tyrol
In the pure mountain air, waters rich in beneficial properties, and lush forests filled with medicinal herbs, South Tyrol is a true oasis of natural wellness. Discover some of the unique places that offer wellness paths immersed in the alpine landscape.
Villabassa: Wellness in the Open Air
The Kneipp Village, located in the Kurpark of Villabassa, is a relaxation oasis immersed in greenery. Next to children's play areas, making it perfect for families, the park retains its wellness soul with two dedicated spaces: on one side, the Kneipp path, effective in stimulating blood circulation, and on the other, an outdoor inhalation system, ideal for purifying the respiratory system.
Open from June to September, these paths offer various natural treatments:
Facial Bath: immersion of the face in cold water with eyes open, to stimulate circulation and prevent mucus buildup.
Arm Immersion: useful for regulating heart rate and reducing tachycardia.
Walking in Water: the typical “stork step” helps improve circulation and fight varicose veins.
Barefoot on the Dew: walking on grass covered with morning dew reduces headaches and lowers blood pressure.
Clay Packs: applied to the skin for 20 minutes, stimulates circulation and improves elasticity.
The Breath of the Mountain
The Kurpark of Villabassa hosts the only outdoor inhalation system in Italy. This wooden structure, open on all sides and covered with pine, sloe, and medicinal herbs, allows a saline solution to flow along the walls, merging with the essential oils released by the plants to create a balsamic and mineral-rich air. The effect is similar to a sea breeze at high altitude, perfect for decongesting the respiratory system.
Speleotherapy in Predoi: Pure Air in the Depths of the Mountain
Some of the most beneficial places in South Tyrol are found in the heart of the mountains. By walking 1,100 meters through the Predoi gallery, an old mine now converted into a speleo-therapy center, you enter a microclimate ideal for respiratory health.
With humidity at 95%, all impurities, allergens, and dust settle on the rocky walls, leaving room for completely pure air. The atmosphere is thus free from pollutants, promoting deep, natural breathing, perfect for those suffering from asthma, bronchitis, and allergies.
Thanks to the silent and isolated environment, a state of deep relaxation and mental regeneration is guaranteed.
Climatotherapy at the Parcines Waterfalls
Some natural places are intrinsically beneficial for the body, thanks to their unique microclimate or the presence of healing natural elements. The Parcines Waterfalls, among the most spectacular in South Tyrol, offer a truly regenerating experience: the fresh air created by the mist of the waterfalls combined with the mountain’s humidity purifies the respiratory system and improves the skin and circulation.
Forest Immersion: The Power of Forest Bathing
Walking barefoot, listening to the rustling of the leaves, smelling the trees: forest bathing, inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, helps reduce stress and strengthen the immune system. It involves living the relationship with the forest consciously—not just passing through nature, but integrating with it, feeling and collecting the energies that it offers.
Many hotels in South Tyrol offer guided forest experiences, with sensory exercises such as:
- Deep breathing
- Meditation in nature
- Contact with forest elements (roots, streams, scents…)
- Slow-paced walks at dawn
- Muscle relaxation exercises
These practices improve sleep quality, stabilize mood, and reduce blood pressure.
Barbiano Waterfalls: Water, Herbs, and Spirituality
A path of just 6 km allows you to connect with three natural sources of energy:
- Water: The high concentration of oxygen ions near the waterfalls purifies the air, stimulates circulation, and strengthens the immune system.
- Medicinal Plants: Along the path, thematic stations explain the healing properties of alpine plants, inviting you to discover the secret world of medicinal herbs.
- The Three Churches: A mystical complex with Saint Gertrude, Saint Nicholas, and Saint Magdalene, unique buildings built side by side in a setting that promotes meditation and spirituality.
Other Wellness Locations in South Tyrol
Merano: The ultimate spa town, famous for its healing waters and the Merano Thermal Baths.
Moso in Val Fiscalina: Historic spa village with hydrotherapy treatments documented since the 1700s.
Fiè allo Sciliar: Wellness destination at the foot of the Sciliar Massif, known since the 19th century for its therapeutic waters and hay baths.