Welcomed by a gentleman adorned in a suit complete with a winter navy-blue cape trimmed in red, uttering a deep-voiced "Buongiorno," the foyer of Helvetia & Bristol in Florence's historic core ushered us into the majesty of what once stood as a Palazzo, now transformed into a hotel, resonating with luxury.
Every element, from the sumptuous velvet fabrics on the couches to the ornate candelabras, the masterful artworks, and the meticulously crafted parquetry, whispers tales of a bygone era of opulence, meticulously preserved.
La Spa, nestled two floors beneath, is a space where past and present seamlessly embrace. In the heart of this sanctuary, the design pays homage to the ancient Roman baths, once a nucleus of both wellness and social communion. These historic baths, integral to Italy's cultural tapestry, combine physical rejuvenation with the essence of social interaction. In La Spa, through glass floors, you can glimpse the ruins of Florence's own grand Roman baths, marrying the ancient with contemporary luxury. During the Roman era, Florence was known as Florentia. It was established in the 1st century BC and, like many Roman settlements, featured typical Roman urban characteristics that included bathhouses. The general approach to public baths and communal spaces in Rome could have influenced similar constructions in Florence during that era.
What I will call a half-day holiday commenced with a brief tour from our gracious host Isabella suggesting 10-15 mins in the Calidarium, the steam room enveloping us in a hot mist, melting stress away from our shoulders. Transitioning to the Aquae, we were gently sprayed by water jets, of alternating hot and cold, invigorating yet soothing. Then the Sudatorium, the dry sauna, its intense warmth offered a purifying contrast to the humid embrace of the Calidarium. The most electrifying chapter unfolded in the Frigidarium. Here, a plunge into the cold room, the ice machine creating cubes to rub on your skin, and the challenge of cold showers and ice slabs, awakened my circulation that is for sure. as we had time to try everything twice in our two hour session the first time in the fridge room I was a total sook, the second I was holding my body up against a giant slab of ice after a freezing shower and rubbing ice cubes all over my body! This chilling immersion underscored the importance of balance and revitalization. In the Tepidarium, visible beneath our feet through a glass floor we could see ancient ruins of Florence. But it was the “Lacus Quietis,” a modern interpretation of the communal Roman bath, that resonated most deeply with me. In the warmth of communal waters, I made my New Year's resolution to be a year of wellness, a cornerstone of Italian culture and longevity.
Our half-day holiday finished up with an incredible 80-minute Polynesian massage, not remedial, completely relaxing, leaving us ready to embrace the new year.
Stepping back into the coolness of a Florentine winter afternoon, we emerged from La Spa, complete with the experience of centuries-old Italian wellness culture, a booking for a private Reformer Pilates session, and another afternoon in the Roman Bath. Something so good it needs to be done at least twice....more than likely, a 12-month membership may happen.
We ate a late lunch near Palazzo Strozzi with the lively crowds of Florence around us. As we walked out of the city, masses were walking in, all moving towards the historic centre to celebrate New Year's Eve. Even in the middle of the madness, I found a profound sense of peace.
Our experience at La Spa was not just a series of treatments but an immersion into the heart of Italian wellness, a passage to the enduring traditions of a culture that has mastered the art of living well. Italy forces you to slow down. In 2024, I will pay attention to my body and finally learn to make time for myself by working smarter, not harder.
Florence is a city that seamlessly blends the grandeur of history with the vibrancy of modern Italian culture, one indulgence you must not miss is the Roman Bath experience at La Spa. Beginning at 50 euros this two-hour session is not just an indulgence but an essential part of the Florentine experience. You are not just taking a dip into warm waters but immersing yourself in a timeless tradition, one that has been cherished by travellers and locals alike for generations. It’s an unspoken rite of passage for every discerning visitor to Florence, a must-do activity that promises relaxation and a touch of luxury in the midst of your Italian escapade.
So, when planning your journey through Florence, pencil in a visit and book in advance. It's more than just a relaxing treat; it's a way to reset within the city's soul, rejuvenating your body and spirit amidst the echoes of history.
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