Wellness starts at home: European homes designed for healthy living
From Provence to Lake Geneva, discover five European homes designed to support a holistic, health-focused lifestyle
The wellness industry is thriving - and as more people prioritise both physical and mental wellbeing, there's a growing desire for our living environments to support and reflect these values. Here we explore a selection of exceptional homes designed as personal sanctuaries, offering standout amenities such as private spas, meditation gardens and dedicated relaxation spaces that promote wellbeing at home. Positioned in serene, nature-rich settings, these properties also invite a slower, more intentional pace of life, offering the best of the European lifestyle.
12 bedroom house in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Bouches-Du-Rhône, Provence-Alpes-Côte d`Azur, France
Being surrounded by the fragrant lavender fields of Provence brings its own rejuvenating benefits, the region’s breathtaking countryside serving as a calming antidote to the frenetic pace of modern life. Those seeking to embrace a relaxed Provençal lifestyle, defined by good food, outdoor living and savouring life’s simple pleasures, will find a tranquil escape in this beautifully renovated and substantial home. Set within 1.5 hectares of landscaped gardens and woodland, it offers a private sense of seclusion while remaining ideally situated for the charming town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
The outdoor swimming pool invites you to bask in the area’s natural beauty, featuring two jacuzzis and a summer kitchen designed for leisurely entertaining well into warm summer evenings. Upstairs, a south-facing terrace with a smaller, more intimate pool offers a private retreat, complemented by four spacious bedroom suites in the outbuildings - each too with its own swimming pool. Completing this wellness sanctuary is a self-contained annexe, equipped with a gym, sauna, hammam, and shower room.
9 bedroom villa in Lucca, Tuscany, Italy
At this historically significant 17th-century villa, just a few kilometres from the village of Matraia in the rolling hills northeast of Lucca, wellness is truly an art form. Here, a world-class spa experience awaits you at every turn. Light some candles and unwind in the heated indoor pool, complete with a waterfall, whirlpool, and counter-current swim system for those seeking a gentle workout. Afterwards, soothe your senses in the sauna or jacuzzi, or retreat to the massage room and dedicated relaxation area.
These exceptional amenities are just a glimpse of what this remarkable property offers. Originally built by the aristocratic Diodati family, the villa spans approximately 2,000 sq metres of living space, divided into two wings. To the east lies a grand three-bedroom family residence, while the west wing houses five additional suites, living areas for guests, and a staff flat. Outside, an infinity pool overlooks the dramatic landscape. Currently undergoing a sensitive renovation, the property presents the next owner with a unique opportunity to personalise the finishes to their own taste.
5 bedroom villa in St-Prex, Vaud, Switzerland
Saunas with a view don’t come more spectacular than this outdoor example overlooking the serene waters of Lake Geneva, just one of the many features of this waterfront villa that makes it the ultimate idyllic escape. Every element has been carefully curated to take advantage of its enviable positioning, located on the outskirts of the village of Saint-Prex and with private access to the lake, including a port for six boats.
A suspended lounge chair hovers just above the waterline, where gentle waves lap beneath your feet, setting the tone for the villa’s effortlessly serene atmosphere. That sense of calm continues at the mosaic-tiled pool, designed by a Parisian architect and equipped with underwater music and swim jets for a sensory escape. Step into the meditative calm of the Japanese garden to complete the experience.
The house itself is equally remarkable, both in design and execution. Originally conceived by Swiss architect Tschumi in the mid-1950s, its distinctive design has been meticulously restored using the highest quality materials, faithfully preserving its architectural heritage while preparing it for its new chapter.
7 bedroom villa in La Quinta, Benahavís, Málaga, Andalucía, Spain
Sunshine is widely known for its uplifting effect on mood, and this exceptional villa makes the most of it thanks to its elevated position, enjoying sunlight throughout the entire day. Perched in one of the most picturesque and desirable areas of the Costa del Sol, the property benefits from uninterrupted sea views framed by the region’s mountain backdrop. Its unique location also offers easy access to a range of wellbeing-focused outdoor activities, from scenic hikes and nature walks to golf and coastal sports.
A state-of-the-art design philosophy defines every corner of this expansive 1,605 sq m villa, recently completed by a renowned local architect. Nowhere is this more evident than in its exceptional amenities. The beautifully designed, fully equipped gym offers a serene and motivating environment to begin your day. Afterwards, rejuvenate in the heated indoor pool, cold plunge pool, and sauna, or indulge in a traditional hammam or a treatment in the private massage room, creating a truly holistic health and wellness experience. Outdoors, a 20-metre swimming pool stretches alongside a generous sun-drenched terrace, all set within lush, landscaped gardens that provide both privacy and tranquility.
4 bedroom townhouse in Santanyi, Mallorca, Illes Balears
The town of Santanyí, with its golden sandstone buildings and enchanting cobbled streets, offers the ideal setting to embrace the art of slow living - surrounded by nature, focused on self-care, and deeply connected to the local community. Here, a day might begin with selecting fresh produce at the vibrant local market, followed by a leisurely coffee at one of the many charming cafés, and conclude with a visit to one of the stunning nearby beaches.
Capturing this unique blend of rustic charm and refined living is an extensively renovated townhouse that seamlessly unites three historic properties into one exceptional residence. Rare for the area, it offers generous private outdoor spaces, including a swimming pool, several balconies, and a rooftop terrace. Inside, original architectural details are thoughtfully preserved and paired with contemporary comforts such as underfloor heating, air conditioning, and solar panels, ensuring both elegance and sustainability are at the heart of the home.
