The Science Behind Sardinia’s Special Spa

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We all know Italy can get busy in the summer. Cities like Rome, Venice and Florence are full of tourists from abroad and most Italians also take advantage of generous school holidays for family vacations to all parts of the country. Sardinia isn’t exactly a secret destination either, the main airport has a number of international and domestic flights so you’ll always find travellers on the island, but it’s important to remember that this is a big island. Second only to Sicily in the Mediterranean in terms of size, you’ll always be able to find quiet spots throughout the peak season and some of the resorts are essentially enclosed villages in their own right.

There is even a microclimate on Sardinia with temperature variations seeing different environmental conditions form across the terrain. Elsewhere seawater collected 100m offshore from 10m below sea level and left to settle like a salt pan reaches a density almost twice that of the Dead Sea, resulting in a very high level of magnesium. This particular phenomenon has been used to create a unique and invigorating spa treatment at Forte Village set in 120 acres of subtropical flora and fauna in southern Sardinia.

Dr Angelo Cerina was asked to develop a spa at Forte Village in 1984 by far-sighted owner, Lord Charles Forte. Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa is a unique concept based on six seawater pools, each with different concentrations of salts and heat, designed to be used in a circuit lasting 90 minutes.

As a medical doctor and ex-referee for the Italian Football Federation, Dr Angelo gained an in-depth knowledge of how to treat injuries and a particular understanding of the effects of water, salt and heat on the body, including Thalassotherapy and psammotherapy (hot sand baths).

After studying Thalassotherapy in Brittany, Dr Angelo realised there was an opportunity to develop something further by embracing the unique properties of the South Sardinian Sea, inherently different from the Mediterranean. He also took inspiration from the Conti Vecchi Saltworks, which are located a short distance from Forte Village.

Putting the technicalities of it to one side, the entire process basically involves navigating six pools that each contribute to the Thalosso process. There are pools that are full of ‘Sea Oil’, where the high density of salinity sees the body naturally float when entering. The buoyancy is a pretty weird sensation and can take a while to get used to, but all the while through a level of osmosis, powerful anti-inflammatory effects will be taking place.

Forte Village has a number of other attractions for those looking to do more than just relax on the beaches associated with the property. A number of sporting academies are available with the football facilities popular with professional teams as well as beginners. We can recommend bringing your tennis racket if you want to play a few sets on clay and thrill seekers should check out the Go Kart track which is particularly exhilarating under floodlight conditions at night.

Beyond the resort itself, there are a number of things to do on the island if you have the time to explore.

Getting around is easy if you rent a car, and once on the road there are a number of beautiful towns that showcase a way of life that feels ‘typically Italian’ whilst still boasting a unique flavour. San Pantaleo is picturesque and has a charming central church square surrounded by small shops and cafes. Cagliari, the capital city, is an obvious stop and there are a number of great restaurants here you won’t want to miss.

You can have any type of break you want in Sardinia and if you’re looking for a slice of Italian culture with a healthy dose of relaxation, this is the perfect destination to visit.