Visitors to Italy who have already visited the major tourist destinations will be thrilled to discover Palazzo di Varignana. This very special property, located just outside of Bologna, is comprised of 650 hectares of farmland, vineyards, olive groves, lakes, and one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy. Guests can indulge in wine tasting, bike through the olive groves, enjoy a game of tennis or golf or dip into one of the Palazzo’s five swimming pools. Rooms are beuatifully decorated and several villas are available for guests who are like their privacy.

But for if you are seeking to dedicate a few days to wellness, this is the perfect place to enjoy a longevity program that does not feel at all restrictive. The Palazzo features the Acquaviva Method, developed by Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva , the Scientific Director of the resort. The best part of the program is the fact that it takes place amidst stunning scenery, including trees filled with figs, persimmons and hazelnuts.

The Acquaviva method is based on five pillars of longevity that include: nutrition, inner harmony, physical activity, sleep and rest, and nutritional and cosmetic supplementation. Guests begin their journey by meeting one with the wellness team in the Treno Reale, a vintage coach, dating back to 1921, that has been restored and also serves as one of the property’s many dining locations. After meeting with Dr. Acquaviva for a consult, you will finalize your program and begin feeling healthier.

One of the highlights of the program is eating in the light-filled Ginkgo Longevity Restaurant where every meal is delicious, beautifully presented and designed to optimize health. Meals always start with a seasonal amuse bouche, followed by a first course such as red cabbage with organic olive oil, passion fruit gel and spinach powder. Your next course could feature pumpkin cannelloni with shrimp designed to boost a positive mood and longevity. A main course of seabass served on a bed of vegetables and celeriac cream provides protein and vitamins. All meals end with indulgent desserts such as a lavender macaron with blueberry reduction for a tasty sense of calm. The ingredients are locally sourced, many from the property’s own orchards and all of the desserts are miraculously sweetened without processed sugar.

While all retreats include elements of Dr. Acquaviva’s five pillars of longevity, guests can choose between programs that focus on stress reduction, weight loss, enhancing sleep and detoxing, among others. To attain inner harmony, guests will focus on mindfulness by engaging in an outdoor meditation session and learn breathing techniques. For physical activity, there are yoga and Pilates classes and miles of hiking trails, as well as a well-equipped gym. Better sleep is achieved with relaxing techniques and a multitude of excellent spa offerings; a personalized pillow menus also helps. Nutritional and cosmetic offerings include an olive oil ritual massage, a chakra massage and a lymphatic drainage massage.

After just a few days, guests will feel submerged in nature and more appreciative of their bodies and the simplicity of gentle movement and healthy food choices.