A Wellness Journey Through Sicily: Ancient Hammams, Luxurious Spas, and Healing Hands
Our ten-day adventure in Sicily was a perfect blend of history, architecture, and indulgent spa experiences. November graced us with sunny days and cool, pleasant nights, the ideal backdrop for discovering this stunning island. Among the highlights of our trip were the moments of relaxation and healing we found at various spas and wellness centers, each offering a unique slice of Sicilian charm.
A Moorish Escape at Bagni Arabi
Our journey began at Bagni Arabi, an ancient hammam dating back to Sicily’s Moorish era. Carved from volcanic rock and adorned with intricate Moroccan tiles, the hammam offered an exotic retreat that felt worlds away from modern life.
The bathing ritual included a circuit through pools of varying temperatures. We alternated between the warm bath, the hot bath, and the invigorating cold bath, enjoying the restorative effects of each. Though the dry sauna was on the smaller side, the cozy rest area made up for it. Stocked with nuts, snacks, tea, fresh fruits, and water, it was the perfect place to pause and refresh. To top it off, they provided complimentary prosecco, adding a celebratory touch to the experience.
The highlight of our visit was the sugar scrub with argan oil in the wet sauna. This self-administered exfoliation left our skin silky smooth and deeply hydrated—a luxurious finale to our two-hour visit.
Luxury and Relaxation at Ortea Palace Hotel, Ortigia
In Ortigia, we stayed at the opulent Ortea Palace Hotel, a five-star resort that boasts a fabulous spa. The serene indoor pool, hot and cold immersive showers, and spacious sauna provided a relaxing escape after days spent exploring the town’s historic streets.
We also treated ourselves to a hot oil massage from La Curandera, a massage therapist located close to the spa in Ortigia. The medium-pressure treatment was soothing and effective, though not particularly extraordinary. Nevertheless, the overall spa experience added a layer of indulgence to our stay at this magnificent hotel.
Healing Hands in Palermo
The pinnacle of our wellness journey came in Palermo at Studio Massoterapia Massaggi Professionali, where we both received transformative treatments from Ms. Chitosca.
More than just a massage therapist, Ms. Chitosca is a skilled physiotherapist who combines intuition with expertise. She took the time to understand our specific issues and tailored her treatments accordingly. Using a mix of advanced techniques, including the Winback system for electrical stimulation and a traction table to relieve compression, she provided instant relief from pain and tension.
Her sessions blended cutting-edge technology with powerful deep tissue massage, targeting and loosening tight muscles before addressing deeper layers. By the end of our treatments, both my husband and I felt significant relief from persistent neck and lower back pain. Her approach is both therapeutic and restorative—a true standout in our Sicilian spa experiences.
Reflections on Sicily's Wellness Offerings
Sicily offered a diverse range of wellness experiences, from the ancient and atmospheric to the luxurious and cutting-edge. Each spa had its own unique charm, but the common thread was the island’s emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether soaking in a Moorish bath, unwinding at a five-star resort, or experiencing transformative therapy, we left Sicily not only enriched by its history but also deeply restored.
For anyone planning a trip to Sicily, don’t overlook its wellness offerings. They provide a perfect complement to the island’s breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage.
