Milan welcomes a new haven for beauty and wellness, promising an escape from the city's hustle.
Step into Retreat, a brand-new sanctuary in the heart of Milan, designed to rejuvenate both locals and visitors. Located on Via Merlo 1, just a short distance from the bustling shopping streets, this new hotspot is the brainchild of Elisa Lainati, the founder of Milan Retreats. Her company manages over 100 apartments throughout the fashion capital.
This opening is a natural progression for Lainati's hospitality venture, established in 2014. The goal? To provide guests with bespoke stays and personalized experiences, from private tours to personal chefs.
Retreat takes this philosophy further. It's an exclusive space for small groups, offering yoga and Pilates classes, with fitness sessions limited to a maximum of four people per hour. They also provide advanced facial and body treatments in individual cabins and a private suite for couples.
"The initial spark came from yoga, thanks to a conversation with an Indian master who wished to see in Milan a spot that was authentic and [loyal] to the discipline’s tradition," Lainati explains. "My experience added to this starting point: so to offer not just premium homes and services, but foster an overall improvement of one’s lifestyle," she adds, emphasizing the holistic vision she wanted to bring to this new venture.
But here's where it gets controversial... Designed by architect Luigi Bulgarelli, the space features refined, minimal interiors. It blends Milanese Ceppo di Gré stone with tobacco-hued durmast oak elements. Guests can explore a maze of rooms, leading them to the Cryovis cryo-suite, a private spa complete with a sauna, hammam, and jacuzzi. There's also a gym equipped with Technogym machines, including the latest for Pilates Reformer practice.
Retreat also introduces SurfFitness with the CTS Method, a dynamic functional training format inspired by surfing, designed to enhance balance, strength, and focus.
And this is the part most people miss... Retreat has partnered with top brands like Lululemon for technical gear, Biologique Recherche for facial treatments, and Factory SPA for advanced face and body treatments.
Treatments range from 120 to 250 euros, while fitness options are customizable, from single sessions to 10-lesson packages, and even memberships that combine multiple services.
What do you think about this new approach to wellness? Does the combination of traditional practices and cutting-edge technology appeal to you? Share your thoughts in the comments!
