Jan
It's great that Valentine's Day falls on 14 February and therefore in the cosy season. When it's cold and uncomfortable outside, you can make yourself all the cosier in the warm water and enjoy togetherness.
In our search for an insider tip for a sustainable and health-promoting wellness temple, we came across the Termali Salini & Spa Lido in Locarno and tested it as a potential Valentine's Day recommendation.
The spa in Locarno has only recently opened and is therefore still considered an insider tip, but this could quickly change with the services on offer and the feel-good ambience. The centrepiece of the facility is the natural brine baths in the bathing area. These are not only organised vertically, but also horizontally:
On different levels, you can retreat to larger and smaller, quiet pools with massage jets. While you relax in the pleasantly warm salt water, you can let your gaze wander over the marvellous landscape of Locarnese in Ticino. Almost all the outer walls of the facility are made of glass and the view of Lake Maggiore and the surrounding landscape and mountains can be enjoyed from almost every pool. Those who prefer to retreat can also choose a cave pool, where they can relax on a comfortable lounger in the darkened light, or detoxify their skin in the steam bath with organic herbs such as lavender and camomile.
The most fantastic view and perhaps the most beautiful place in the complex is the outdoor pool: an outdoor infinity pool with a view of the open lake and the soft mountains, whose peaks currently look as if they have been dipped in sugar. The transition between the pool and the lake is seamless and while the seagulls glide overhead, you can enjoy a gentle massage from the bubbles on the water loungers. And as there are over 280 days of sunshine a year on Lake Maggiore, there is a particularly good chance that you can soak up some sun on this occasion.
After this initial empathy phase, you can fortify yourself in the bistro - also with a view of the lake - with Prosecco, salmon, smoothies, fruit, savoury dishes and Ticino specialities. However, anyone who automatically reaches for their smartphone will be disappointed, as the spa's philosophy of letting go prohibits mobile phones and cameras and does not offer magazines for sale. The aim is to inspire guests to find inner peace and savour the atmosphere and landscape. The Prosecco helps, and those who don't want to chat can read undisturbed or solve puzzles.
Now it's time to retreat and immerse yourself one level deeper in the sauna landscape. The term "sauna area" is actually too narrow, because in addition to a candle sauna and a sauna with a view of the lake, there is a Bagno Turco with 100% humidity, a cold water pool, a Kneipp path, cosy relaxation rooms and even access to the lake. The adjoining sun terrace with loungers and outdoor tables is also wonderful. You can enjoy the spring water with fresh lemon and mint leaves on offer and prepare for the ritual in the Finnish sauna overlooking the lake with a view of the beach and lake.
While in the sauna area you have the feeling of having landed in a cosy underwater world, in the private spa rooms you can feel the freedom: private rooms with a double bathtub, massage loungers and a private terrace overlooking the lake are the ultimate retreat in your own private sphere.
Inner peace, health-promoting brine and saunas with a view of sunny Lake Maggiore - our verdict: well worth the trip!
More information and pictures as well as prices and directions: http://www.lidospa-locarno.ch
