Terme di Vallio
TERME DI VALLIO IS SURROUNDED BY THE MORENICHE HILLS, ten minutes west of Lake Garda. The waters, woodland and microclimate of the spa all combine to revive the body and mind. The Berardi family have owned the spa since Albino Beradi discovered the healing properties of the water, which cured his kidney problems. He started selling Acqua Castello water in 1955, then developed the area as a spa to drink the spring water, and followed this by building a bottling plant nearby seven years later. Acqua Castello water is still bottled in glass and wrapped in paper to protect it from the light. It is sold across Italy, Switzerland, France, China and Taiwan. The carbonated water aids digestion and keeps the kidneys healthy. Different effects are caused by drinking water on an empty stomach to detox the body and clean the kidneys or with a meal to aid digestion.
The importance of the water to the small town of Vallio was reflected in an official name change to Vallio Terme in 1976. A woodland walk from the main building leads to a stream and botanical gardens. The current owner, Sergio Berardi, explained how the presence of bees and shrimps indicates that the water is pure. The environment, stream and underground water are continually assessed to check the purity of the water before it is bottled.
WHAT’S ON OFFER
In addition to drinking the spring water, yoga, massage, meditation, inhalation and breathing exercises all take part in the spa.
VISITING
The spa is open from May to October, Monday to Saturday mornings. www.termevallio.it
ACCOMMODATION
The Beradi family have converted two of their old buildings into hotels, Ostello alla Sorgente and Villa Giulia. By retaining period details and antique furnishings the two properties have become comfortable places to stay with countryside views. A double room costs from £77 a night. www.borgoallasorgente.it