Longevity is a passion, and some renowned wellness centres around the world have even made it their trademark. From more traditional treatments to the most advanced (and sometimes controversial) therapies, including rigorously structured meal plans, each establishment approaches this topic with its signature formula to provide its guests with lasting, concrete results. Let’s take a look at five retreats that are carefully thought out down to the smallest detail and established in dreamlike locations.
Photos : © Enrico Costantini / Alexander Haiden
LANSERHOF LANS — AUSTRIA
lanserhof.com
Location
In Tyrol, in the heart of the Alps. Two hours by car from Munich, Germany.
History of the establishment
The first Lanserhof – the brand has several establishments – opened its doors in 1984 in Tyrol and made its name in Europe thanks to its holistic approach combining natural healing and modern medicine. While its activities were initially rooted in the F.X. Mayr Cure, which focuses on the intestine and colon cleansing, the centre evolved in the 2000s toward a more holistic concept. Today, the Lanserhof approach includes naturopathy, energy medicine, psychology, psychoneuroimmunology, chronomedicine, and advanced medicine, along with nutritional and physical therapies, which makes Lanserhof a world leader in vitality medicine.
The retreat
The complex offers several medical programs, including the Longevity Program. By understanding the biological causes of aging, Lanserhof believes that we can slow it down. The basis of the offering is a fasting cure (although the scientific community is still divided on the merits of this practice): it is believed that only a detoxified and purified body will be prepared to regenerate itself. Then, through diagnoses based on the biological signs of aging, each individual’s aging process is analyzed, then a personalized treatment plan is issued based on the genetic, cellular, and metabolic needs identified. This treatment plan is then observed for 7 or 14 days and features innovative methods such as the CellGym procedure, sensorimotor control, the use of the cold room, as well as private training and meditation.
Their promise
“Live better. Live longer.”
Capacity
75 clients at a time (served by 175 employees).
Duration of the stay
7 or 14 days.
Price
From 9600 CAD.
Photos : © Alexander Haiden / Enrico Costantini
SHA SPAIN — SPAIN
shawellness.com
Location
In the Valencia region, more specifically in the Alicante province, on the Mediterranean coast of Spain.
History of the establishment
After several years of health problems and a colon cancer diagnosis, Alfredo Bataller Parietti, a real estate developer, was cured thanks to integrative medicine, which focuses in particular on healthy and restorative nutrition. Amazed by the transformative impact of controlled nutrition and appropriate therapies, he wanted to share this new knowledge and allow others to benefit from it. In 2008, therefore, with the support of his loved ones, he founded SHA Wellness Clinic, which has since become SHA Spain following the addition of new locations in Mexico and the United Arab Emirates. The passion for wellness is a family affair, since Alfredo’s son, Alejandro Bataller, now leads SHA.
The retreat
The Advanced Longevity program slows cellular aging, stimulates metabolic processes, and improves mitochondrial health. It combines functional medicine, longevity treatments, and the establishment of new healthy habits to optimize health and promote longevity. The process includes the analysis of biological indicators of age, a comparison with chronological age, and the identification of factors likely to adversely affect quality of life, all of which influence the program’s customization. The efforts focus on nine key areas: healthy nutrition, natural therapies, preventive medicine, advanced aesthetics, cognitive stimulation, emotional health, well-being, inner balance, and physical performance. The objective is to improve your physical appearance as well as your vitality.
Their promise
The SHA method aims to “add years to your life, and quality of life to your years.” [loose translation]
Capacity
93 suites and 11 private residences.
Duration of the stay
7 days or longer.
Price
From 11 800 CAD.
Photos : © SHA Spain
SIX SENSES KAPLANKAYA — TÜRKİYE
sixsenses.com
Location
In the Aegean Sea region, near the resort town of Bodrum.
History of the establishment
Since 2017, Six Senses Kaplankaya, like all the brand’s complexes, has taken respect for the environment and the community in which it is established very seriously. This is why Six Senses Kaplankaya encourages local farmers by procuring supplies from them, places nature at the heart of the experience, and invites its guests to visit and celebrate the region by means of the numerous activities offered.
The retreat
The Longevity Program aims to overcome the effects of aging related to lifestyle and promote inner and outer beauty by nourishing the body, supporting intestinal health, and stimulating the mind. On the schedule: guided morning walks, private fitness sessions, yoga, breathing, and meditation classes, body wraps, dermatological analyses, hammam treatments, and personalized massages. It should be noted that among all the Six Senses establishments around the world, the Longevity Program is currently only offered at the Kaplankaya complex in Türkiye.
Their promise
Restored vitality and energy, increased mental clarity, and improved physical strength and emotional resilience.
Capacity
141 rooms and suites.
Duration of the stay
3 to 7 nights.
Price
From 2750 CAD, excluding accommodation (price for the program only).
Photos: © Six Senses, part of IHG’s Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio
CLINIQUE LA PRAIRIE — SWITZERLAND
cliniquelaprairie.com
Location
In Montreux, on the banks of Lake Geneva, one hour by car from the Geneva airport.
History of the establishment
Founded in 1931 by Dr. Paul Niehans, Clinique La Prairie quickly became a reference in preventive medicine and wellness. Dr. Niehans developed cell therapy, an innovative treatment born almost by chance when he injected fresh parathyroid gland cells from calves into a dying patient (a controversial intervention, to say the least), with amazing healing and rejuvenating results. This success attracted a prestigious clientele, including figures such as Winston Churchill and Pope Pius XII. The clinic therefore established itself as a leader in the field of longevity and advanced medical treatments, combining scientific innovation and luxury care. It still welcomes public figures from all over the world today.
The retreat
Clinique La Prairie is both a medical centre and a luxury hotel. Medical treatments covering more than 25 specialties are offered there on an outpatient basis or during short stays, but the 50 doctors and 200 therapists are also dedicated to caring for guests staying at the hotel and subscribing to one of the all-inclusive longevity programs: Revitalization, Detox and Vitality, Cognitive Performance, Radiant Beauty, or Medical. The top of the line? Revitalization Premium, their most advanced and comprehensive program. The Premium program is focused on cellular regeneration and immune defense, which involve the seven key systems and functions of the body, according to Clinique La Prairie: the brain, the heart, the circadian rhythm, the skin, the metabolism, immunity, and the microbiota. It includes personalized consultations and diagnoses, advanced medical tests, as well as injections of essential therapies based on the results of these tests. The program also uses the exclusive LP Extract formula, the result of 90 years of research, combined with cellular regeneration and anti-inflammatory treatments. Nutrition consultations, longevity workshops, invigorating massages, and relaxation sessions are also on the agenda.
Their promise
Stimulate the immune system, activate cellular regeneration, slow the appearance of the signs of aging, stimulate mental and physical abilities, improve sleep quality, reduce stress, strengthen resistance to chronic diseases and inflammatory reactions, and deeply regenerate the entire body.
Capacity
50 clients at a time (served by 350 employees).
Duration of the stay
7 days for Revitalization Premium.
Price
From 75 500 CAD for Revitalization Premium, which is the most expensive program.
Photos: © Clinique La Prairie in Montreux, Switzerland
CHIVA-SOM HUA HIN — THAILAND
chivasom.com
Location
In Hua Hin, a renowned resort town 185 kilometres south of Bangkok.
History of the establishment
Founded in 1993 by Thai businessman and politician Boonchu Rojanastien. He first transformed his seaside home into a haven of peace far from the urban hustle and bustle, inspired by his experiences with European “health farms” in the 1970s. Open first to his family and friends, then gradually attracting an increasing number of enthusiasts, Chiva-Som quickly became Asia’s leading wellness centre, enjoying a worldwide reputation and winning numerous awards.
The retreat
The Ageing Well program focuses on diet, exercise, and an appropriate lifestyle. Fulfillment and pleasure are considered essential to a long and healthy life. Among other elements, the stay includes a consultation with a health and wellness counsellor, three healthy meals per day, physiotherapy follow-up, a dermatology consultation, up to nine sports and leisure sessions per day, unlimited access to the relaxation facilities (steam baths, saunas, pools, gym), one treatment or massage of your choice per day, and other state-of-the-art therapies.
Their promise
Increase longevity, improve the metabolism, and relieve pain.
Capacity
54 rooms and suites.
Duration of the stay
5 to 7 nights.
Price
From 8450 CAD.
Photos : © Kiattipong Panchee
Chiva-Som. (n.d.). Ageing well retreat. https://www.chivasom.com/en/chiva-som-hua-hin/retreat/ageing-well/
Luxe Wellness Club. (n.d.). Alejandro Bataller, propriétaire de SHA Wellness Clinic. https://www.luxewellnessclub.com/alejandro-bataller-proprietaire-de-sha-wellness-clinic/
Pelloux, C. (2022, January 7). Restart your life at Lanserhof Lans in Austria. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/ceciliapelloux/2022/01/07/restart-your-life-at-lanserhof-lans-in-austria/
PME. (2021, June 14). Il faut définir une vision ambitieuse et ne pas craindre l’échec. https://www.pme.ch/publireportage/il-faut-definir-une-vision-ambitieuse-et-ne-pas-craindre-lechec-573039
SHA Wellness Clinic. (n.d.). SHA Wellness Clinic – Spain. https://abliving.com/en/wellbeing/sha-wellness-clinic-spain/
Six Senses. (n.d.). Longevity at Six Senses Kaplankaya. Health Travel. https://www.health.travel/book/longevity-at-six-senses-kaplankaya/
Six Senses. (n.d.). Longevity programs at Six Senses Kaplankaya. https://www.sixsenses.com/en/hotels-resorts/europe/turkey/kaplankaya/wellness-spa/programs/longevity/
This article presents general information on the retreats and does not constitute medical advice. Readers are encouraged to do their own research and consult qualified health professionals before making any decision regarding their well-being. Strøm Nordic Spa does not support or guarantee the methods, techniques, or treatments mentioned in this article and disclaims any liability for the effectiveness or effects of these retreats. This article is not intended to advertise the wellness complexes presented, and Strøm Nordic Spa is in no way associated with these companies. Each individual is responsible for their own choices and approach to health and well-being.
