Fab 40: Aquapetra Spa, Telese Terme

Italy

Once used by Sannio warriors in 290BC, the sweet spring waters of Petra served as inspiration for the refurbishment of an ancient Borgo village into this exclusive 43-room resort and spa.

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It took owner-architect Domenico Tartarone and his wife and interior designer Patrizia Tartarone Cante over ten years to create the vast bath paradise immersed in 26 hectares of oak woodland and organic olive groves. Featuring original stone and rock throughout, the resort’s gym has been built around existing trees trunks. The exterior pool is filled with natural Sannio spring water and the Roman-style bathhouse features a hot and cold pool.

The Turkish bath, or hammam, and sauna are infused with organic mint and rose essences. Couples can treat themselves to a hot stone rose oil massage for two in a twin massage booth complete with private suite and plunge pool. And after all that indulgence the restaurant beckons with its own temptations, offering dishes such as pistachio crusted fillet steak and fresh tomato pizza.

www.aquapetra.com

15 October 2009 | Travel