Hotel details
Experience 'La Dolce Vita' at this elegant Italian estate, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. The award-winning spa, named 'Best Italian Spa 2020,' makes it an ideal spot for both short getaways and extended wellness stays.
Where you are going...
Nestled in the lush green countryside near Bologna, this hotel is surrounded by 20 hectares of vineyards and olive trees. The historic city of Bologna, with its medieval churches, markets, and restaurants, is just a half-hour drive away. Castel San Pietro Terme is conveniently located about 15 minutes away on foot. The three hectares of gardens of Palazzo di Varignana are part of the renowned Grande Giardini – the network of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. Our tip: take a hike or cycle tour around the estate, it is great for both cycling and hiking.
Why you’ll love it...
Once upon a time, Palazzo Di Varignana began as a farm cultivating vines and olive trees. Today, it has evolved into a beautiful estate that continues to produce exquisite wine and olive oil. The historic villa, dating back to 1705, stands as the iconic centerpiece of the estate. The hotel is a collection of various buildings, including the main structure housing restaurants, reception, and the spa, as well as additional buildings for rooms and villas, a wine and olive tasting area, a golf practice range, tennis courts, and conference space. Keep an eye out for the meticulously restored carriage from the original Royal Train.
Palazzo di Varignana exudes elegance and Italian style, featuring timeless design and beautiful art. Stroll through the estate amidst the vines and olive trees, surrounded by peaceful green hills and breathtaking views. This part of Italy still offers serenity and tranquility. The spa serves as a haven for relaxation and introspection, with about seven outdoor swimming pools and one indoor pool.
Whether you're seeking a well-deserved short stay (perhaps a city trip to Bologna) or a more intensive health journey with one of the health programs led by Dr. Annamarie Acquaviva, Palazzo Di Varignana is dedicated to helping guests become the best version of themselves. Dr. Acquaviva employs a holistic approach based on the five pillars of life for a comprehensive and rejuvenating experience.
Wellness, Spa and Health
The Varsana Spa (2500 m2) focuses on ancient rituals from Japan, Morocco and Rome. Varsana Spa seamlessly integrates high-quality 21st-century technical innovations with ancient wellness practices to restore balance and harmony to both body and mind. The spa earned the prestigious title of Best Spa in Italy at the European Health & Spa Awards in 2020. Guests can select from a holistic spa menu offering treatments such as chakra massage, shiatsu, various body and facial treatments, and rituals featuring Sarah Chapman products. For a more personalized approach, Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva has developed the Acquaviva method, a holistic and scientifically based retreat program centered around the five pillars of life. This innovative program addresses metabolism, combats oxidative stress (the balance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body), and supports the immune system. Within the VarSana Spa, guests can enjoy an indoor pool (approximately 100m2) with water jets, steam baths, Finnish sauna, bio sauna, jacuzzi, ice bath, ice cascade, Kneipp facility, a panorama fitness center, and an outdoor wellness trail. The newly added Fusion Spa with Hammam & Asia Spa is available for an additional charge. The resort boasts seven outdoor pools, including an infinity pool with fresh water (around 26 °C) and a saltwater swimming area (approximately 34 °C) featuring micro-massage and a crystal pool with a glass dome roof.
Holistic Activities and Sports
- Yoga
- Pilates
- Squash
- Padel court
- Tennis
- Nordic walking
- Mountain biking
- Garden walk (or guided tour)
- Group tennis lessons
- Personal training
- Fitness
- Cooking class (nearby, extra charge)
- Bicycle tours
- Walking tours
- Squash (extra charge)
- Horse riding (nearby, extra charge)
- Golf course (3 km away, extra charge)
What’s on the Menu
Palazzo di Varignana offers five distinctive restaurants – Aurevo, Le Marzoline, Il Grifone, Treno Reale and Ginkgo – along with a lounge bar featuring an outdoor terrace. Le Marzoline embodies the essence of a traditional Bolognese 'trattoria.' Aurevo restaurant presents traditional Italian dishes that highlight the flavors of the Emilia-Romagna region, alongside a diverse selection of international cuisine. For an exquisite fine dining experience, Il Grifone offers gourmet cuisine paired with exceptional wines from its own cellar. The refined and elegant cuisine of the Treno Reale accompanies guests on an original culinary journey that celebrates the historical period and the routes of the Royal Train, starting with a skillful search for excellent raw materials.
Guests on a half-board arrangement can choose between Trattoria Le Marzoline and restaurant Aurevo, while Il Grifone incurs an additional cost. The hotel's commitment to self-sustainability is reflected in the cultivation of fruits and vegetables within its gardens. Palazzo di Varignana produces its own high-quality extra virgin olive oil, red, white, and sparkling wines, as well as jams and chutneys, available for purchase at the reception shop. Allergies are taken into consideration, and vegan options are available upon request. If you follow a retreat from Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva, you will enjoy a full board meal plan at the Ginkgo restaurant with carefully designed healthy meals, designed by the chef and nutritionist.
We love
- The Japanese Ofuro bath with water at 39°C and a bamboo face and body scrub beforehand for a deep cleanse.
- The gardens with fountains and terraces, part of the Great Italian Gardens: great for a walk.
- The city of Bologna where you can experience the real Italian 'la dolce vita'!
- The completely renovated Royal Train wagon on the premises, where you will discuss your transformational path with Dr Annamaria Aquaviva, when booking one of her health retreats.