Palazzo di Varignana: Rejuvenate in the Bologna countryside

Overlooking the hills of Varignana, just a stone’s throw from Bologna, the Palazzo di Varignana reveals itself as a wellness paradise and an embodiment of the Italian art of living. Here, the past resonates within the walls of the historic palace, while the present is savored through experiences of absolute relaxation. Discover the Varsana SPA, a timeless refuge, blending ancient rituals, local treatments, and unique sensory experiences. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, this place invites you to slow down and refocus, in a quest for harmony and serenity.

Palazzo di Varignana: a place steeped in history

A few kilometers from Bologna, lies the Palazzo di Varignana, a place rich in history and character. At the heart of the estate is the Palazzo Bentivoglio, a former country castle dating back to 1705, which Carlo Gherardi undertook to restore in 2005. Driven by a vision respectful of the past, he transformed this site, once dedicated to the cultivation of olive trees and vineyards, into an elegant refuge, without losing any of its original agricultural nature. Today, the estate spans 30 hectares where manicured gardens, fountains, and rolling landscapes harmoniously meet. With its preserved historic architecture and warm ambiance, the Palazzo di Varignana embodies the charm of old Italy.

The vast estate (Photo: Palazzo di Varignana)

By car, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the historic center of Bologna and a bit longer to discover the vineyards and small medieval villages scattered throughout the Emilia-Romagna region. The hotel is easily accessible from Guglielmo Marconi Airport, located about 30 kilometers away. Additionally, train travel enthusiasts can also arrive via Bologna station, a major railway hub connecting Italy’s major cities.

Timelessly charming accommodations

As soon as you step through the doors of Palazzo di Varignana, the charm of the place immediately takes hold. The gardens, vast and meticulously landscaped, stretch as far as the eye can see, punctuated by sparkling fountains and paths that wind between the trees.

Inside, the atmosphere becomes even more captivating. The delicately restored frescoes and vaulted ceilings tell of the elegance of another era. The majestic staircases, patinated stuccoes, and sumptuous fabrics add a chic touch, without ever being ostentatious. Finally, from the loggia, the view over the hills is inspiring.

Rooms, suites, and villas with character

The rooms and suites are spacious and elegant. The harmony between tradition and contemporary design is fully expressed here. For an even more exclusive experience, the estate houses six luxurious villas, the result of the regeneration of historic farmhouses. Among them, Santa Maria Maddalena (450 m²) stands out for its unique history: it was born from the restoration of a 14th-century chapel perched on a hill facing the property. This villa, with five bedrooms and a private pool, can accommodate up to 10 people in a setting that blends ancient charm with high-end amenities.

Villa Colombara, on the other hand, overlooks a magnificent amphitheater of vineyards. With its 350 m², wooden ceilings, terracotta tiles, and exposed roofs, it evokes the warm atmosphere of a traditional country house, enhanced by timeless elegance. Ultimately, these villas embody the Italian art of living in an exceptional setting.

Country House Oliveto sul Lago, an authentic rural cottage

Palazzo di Varignana also offers a total immersion in country life with its Country House Oliveto sul Lago, nestled within the Agrivar farm. Located on a gentle slope with a breathtaking view of the valley, this rural cottage offers an authentic experience.

Composed of 12 rooms, this establishment stands out for its bucolic atmosphere. The outdoor park, featuring an infinity pool overlooking the olive groves, is an exceptional place to relax or host private events. The Country House Oliveto sul Lago combines the simplicity of the Italian countryside with discreet luxury.

Well-being at Palazzo di Varignana: The Acquaviva Method

The Palazzo di Varignana embodies a holistic vision of well-being, where health, relaxation, and revitalization come together in a harmonious ecosystem. Wellness is based on the Acquaviva Method, a scientific and holistic protocol developed by Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva.

The Acquaviva Method is based on five fundamental pillars:

Nutrition: Adopting a balanced diet tailored to individual needs.
Inner Harmony: Practices aimed at balancing the mind and emotions.
Physical Activity: Incorporating regular exercise to maintain physical fitness.
Sleep: Promoting quality rest for optimal recovery.
Aesthetic Care: Using natural treatments and products for skin and body care.

Complementary wellness spaces

The Palazzo di Varignana redefines well-being through two complementary spaces: the Varsana SPA, a vast complex dedicated to relaxation and regeneration, and the Ars Vivendi Private SPA, a more exclusive experience rooted in ancient wellness traditions. You will also find 2,500 square meters of outdoor spaces with 7 pools!

The Varsana SPA, the main spa

Spanning 4,000 m², the Varsana SPA features indoor and outdoor pools, various saunas, a Turkish bath, and a Kneipp path. Unique spaces, such as the Cava d’Oro Bianco, inspired by salt quarries, and the Grotta dei Calanchi, dedicated to mud treatments, enrich the experience. The Crystal Pool, an outdoor saltwater pool equipped with whirlpools and a swimming lane, is accessible year-round.

Ars Vivendi SPA, ancient traditions in a private space

For a more exclusive experience, the Ars Vivendi Private SPA offers two immersive journeys into ancient wellness traditions. The Hammam ritual, inspired by Arab purification practices, combines steam, black olive oil soap, and multisensory treatments. The Ofuro, on the other hand, explores the Japanese approach to well-being through a traditional hinoki wood bath, accompanied by a tea ceremony on tatami.

100% natural treatments using local products

The Palazzo di Varignana cultivates on-site ingredients used in its signature treatments. The agricultural estate spans over 650 hectares, including olive groves, vineyards, orchards, and a rare saffron production. Indeed, the Rio Rosso garden notably houses 400 square meters dedicated to saffron cultivation, obtained from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. Additionally, the estate produces pomegranates, used in some spa treatments.

Among the signature treatments, two embody the excellence and local roots of the estate. The well-age anti-pollution saffron facial treatment, made from locally grown saffron pistils and vitamin C, offers deep skin regeneration, antioxidant protection, and radiant luminosity.

The fresh legs pomegranate treatment, on the other hand, uses the revitalizing properties of this local ingredient to exfoliate, hydrate, and lighten the legs. These emblematic treatments perfectly reflect Palazzo di Varignana’s commitment to combining well-being, innovation, and traditions.

Health Wellness Retreats

The Palazzo di Varignana offers Health Wellness Retreats, supervised by Dr. Annamaria Acquaviva. These stays, lasting 3 to 7 days or more, are designed to achieve specific goals such as:

Slim Retreat (7 or 14 nights): A program focused on reprogramming the metabolism to promote healthy and sustainable weight loss.
Deep Sleep Retreat (3 or 7 nights): A retreat dedicated to sleep quality, with techniques and treatments to promote restorative rest.
Detox Retreat (2 nights): A short but intense stay, designed to purify and reset the body.
Yoga Mindfulness (3 or 7 nights): An immersion in silence and connection with nature, combining yoga and meditation practices.
Golden Age (3 or 7 nights): A program to enhance natural charm and combat the effects of aging.
La Dolce Vita (7 nights): A celebration of Italian savoir-vivre, blending well-being, gastronomy, and relaxation moments.
In-Shape Retreat (3 or 7 nights): A retreat to regain fitness and vitality through a natural approach to well-being.
Secrets of Longevity (short stay): An exploration of the keys to longevity, combining aesthetic treatments and lifestyle advice for lasting youth.

Examinations and analyses (Photo: Palazzo di Varignana)

These programs include thorough examinations such as bio-impedance analyses to assess body composition, oxidative stress, and psychophysical performance. The results allow for the customization of nutritional protocols and well-being plans tailored to each individual.

Yoga and physical activities

Sport, one of the five pillars of the Acquaviva Method, plays a central role in the well-being offerings at Palazzo di Varignana. In addition to personalized Hatha Yoga classes and Yoga Mindfulness retreats, visitors can engage in various activities such as bio-walking through the vineyards, jogging, or cycling on specially designed trails across 100 hectares of olive groves and vineyards. The estate also features comprehensive sports facilities, including tennis, paddle, basketball, squash courts, and a dedicated golf area.

Cuisine promoting longevity

Gastronomy is a true celebration of Italian terroir and the Mediterranean art of living. The various restaurants on the estate, including the Ginkgo Longevity Restaurant, reinvent regional cuisine with a modern, healthy, and responsible approach.

Supervised by nutrition experts, the menus highlight products from local lands, such as extra virgin olive oil, wine, and saffron, carefully cultivated on-site.

At Ginkgo, each dish is designed to combine pleasure and balance, favoring ingredients that are gluten-free, free of refined sugars, and rich in anti-inflammatory benefits. Other tables, such as the Aurevo restaurant, exalt the excellence of homemade products, while spaces like Le Marzoline or Il Grifone immerse guests in Italian culinary tradition with authentic and generous recipes. Here, each meal becomes a sensory experience, where local flavors and creativity meet for the delight of gourmets.