Are you stressed and searching for a sanctuary? Milan just got a whole lot more relaxing with the grand opening of Retreat, a brand-new beauty and wellness destination promising to be the city's next hot spot. But here's the intriguing part: it's not just another spa; it's a holistic haven meticulously crafted to elevate your entire lifestyle.
Located at Via Merlo 1, practically a skip away from Milan's bustling city center and its famed shopping district, Retreat is the brainchild of Elisa Lainati. Lainati is already well-known as the founder of Retreats, a company managing over 100 apartments scattered throughout the Italian fashion capital. This new venture feels like a natural progression, building upon the foundation of personalized hospitality that Lainati has cultivated since 2014. Her initial concept focused on providing guests with tailor-made stays and bespoke experiences, from exclusive private tours to the luxury of having a personal chef at their disposal.
Retreat adopts the same personalized approach, offering an exclusive space for small groups to participate in yoga and Pilates classes. But this isn't your typical crowded fitness studio; sessions are intentionally limited to a maximum of four people per hour, ensuring individualized attention. In addition to these intimate fitness offerings, Retreat boasts advanced facial and body treatments available in private single cabins, as well as a luxurious private suite specifically designed for couples seeking a shared wellness experience.
"The initial spark came from yoga, thanks to a conversation with an Indian master who wished to see in Milan a spot that was authentic and [loyal] to the discipline’s tradition," Lainati explains. "My experience added to this starting point: so to offer not just premium homes and services, but foster an overall improvement of one’s lifestyle." This holistic vision is woven into the very fabric of Retreat, aiming to be more than just a place to get a treatment; it's about cultivating overall well-being. And this is the part most people miss when opening a wellness center: it's not just about the services, it's about the entire experience.
The design of Retreat is a testament to its commitment to serenity and sophistication. Architect Luigi Bulgarelli has created a refined space with minimalist interiors, blending the earthy tones of Milanese Ceppo di Gré stone with the warm hues of tobacco-colored durmast oak. A carefully designed maze of rooms guides guests to various treatment areas, including the cutting-edge Cryovis cryo-suite. For those seeking a more traditional spa experience, Retreat offers a private spa complete with a separate sauna, hammam (Turkish bath), and jacuzzi. And for the fitness enthusiasts, there's a state-of-the-art gym equipped with Technogym machinery, including their latest innovation for Pilates Reformer practice. Retreat also introduces SurfFitness with the CTS Method, a dynamic and engaging form of functional training inspired by the movements of surfing. This unique approach aims to improve balance, build strength, and enhance concentration.
But here's where it gets controversial... some might argue that incorporating surfing-inspired fitness into a traditional wellness retreat dilutes the focus on inner peace and relaxation. What do you think? Is it a welcome addition or a distraction?
To further enhance the experience, Retreat has partnered with leading brands in the beauty and wellness industry. Lululemon provides technical apparel for fitness activities, Biologique Recherche supplies products for luxurious facial treatments, and Factory SPA contributes their technologically advanced treatments for both the face and body.
Treatments at Retreat range in price from 120 euros to 250 euros, reflecting the premium quality and personalized nature of the services. The fitness offerings are equally flexible, with a variety of options to suit individual needs and preferences. Guests can choose from single sessions, 10-lesson packages, or memberships that combine multiple services. This allows for a truly tailor-made wellness journey.
So, Milan, are you ready to Retreat? Will this new beauty and wellness destination live up to the hype? And more importantly, what does "wellness" truly mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
