There is a particular stillness to Merano that lingers in the air. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of South Tyrol and wrapped in orchards and vineyards, it is a town that breathes differently. Here, in this quiet corner of northern Italy, sits Villa Eden, a discreet retreat with a reputation for transformation.
The drive from Verona is just over an hour, winding gently through rolling countryside and into the Alps. By the time you arrive at the gates, life already feels lighter. The welcome is warm, genuine, and personal, a hallmark of the Schmid family, who have owned and run the property since 1983. What began as Italy’s first “beauty farm” has evolved into a destination for deep, intelligent wellness, led by Angelika Schmid, whose quiet elegance is reflected in every part of the villa.
“Although we renovated the entire property, we have always kept the character of a private home,” Angelika shares. “Guests feel cared for from the moment they arrive, it is personal, not clinical.”
A Legacy of Wellness
Villa Eden is small by design, just twenty five suites, all subtly luxurious and surrounded by manicured gardens. The atmosphere is serene, intimate and unmistakably refined. There is no need to dress things up here. Wellness is the central language, and it is spoken fluently.
“We are located in the northernmost part of Italy, in a spa town blessed by wonderful nature and weather,” says Angelika. “And while we are near the historical centre of Merano, guests still feel enveloped in nature and peace.”
The experience is entirely bespoke. A consultation on arrival gently shapes your days, from medical diagnostics to movement and nutrition. The Longevity Medical Centre and the Longevity Beauty Centre work in quiet harmony, offering an integrated approach that addresses both internal and external renewal.
The People who Transform You
Each treatment is purposeful. Each practitioner, exceptional. My journey began with the Body Cast Detox, two hours of sculpting and lymphatic stimulation guided by Maria, whose calm, intuitive approach made the experience feel almost meditative. Gilda followed with a Detoxifying Body Treatment, and her technique remains one of the best I have ever experienced, hands that seem to understand exactly what you require.
Elena introduced me to the Endermologie LPG system, a non-invasive treatment that reactivates cellular activity and refines the silhouette immediately. And then finally, Lucia brought her finesse to a facial that left my skin visibly brighter and noticeably lifted. Each member of the team operates with care and confidence, creating not just results, but trust.
“Because our guests stay for seven to ten days, we can support them holistically,” Angelika explains. “They have time to rest, recover, and also reflect. This allows for a complete regeneration; physically, mentally and emotionally.”
Where Science Meets Soul
One of the most innovative aspects of the experience is Villa Eden’s Epigenetic test, the only one in Italy that delivers results within twenty four hours. It analyses how your lifestyle is interacting with your genes, and offers personalised insight into what to eat, what supplements may be lacking, and how your body responds to stress.
The science is state of the art, but the delivery is deeply human. Your results are delivered to you by the talented Dr. Emanuele De Nobili, and he ensures that the information is never overwhelming but it is empowering. Empowering, to allow you to make changes to your lifestyle and diet that will improve your way of life.
“We are here to guide people to understand their body’s needs,” says Angelika. “When you truly listen, you begin to feel well from within.”
Food that Nourishes and Flavours that Delight
Dining at Villa Eden is part of the wellness journey, but there is nothing restrictive about it. At Eden’s Park Restaurant, Michelin-starred chef Marcello Corrado creates menus that are elegant, satisfying, and nutritionally balanced. Dishes feel indulgent yet light, made with seasonal produce grown in the villa’s gardens and served with grace.
I fell in love with a dish of artichokes so tender it seemed to melt on the tongue, followed by a dessert of banana, peanut and chocolate that struck the perfect balance between comfort and refinement.
Wines are selected from the family’s Castello Rametz estate, which guests are invited to visit during their stay. Although the wine was impressive and delicious, my personal favourite was the family’s dog, the sweet Leopold which will provide you with as many cuddles as you need.
Peaceful Moments
Beyond the treatment rooms, Villa Eden continues to restore. Mornings begin early here, the indoor pool, sauna and jacuzzi are open from half past six. The water is warm, the atmosphere silent, and it is a deeply tranquil way to begin the day.
A Lupino cappuccino enjoyed on the terrace quickly became part of my routine. Made from the lupin bean, it is caffeine-free and packed with protein and prebiotic fibre. Creamy and naturally sweet, it supports digestion and energy without any crash.
In the afternoons, I wandered through the botanical gardens or into the town of Merano, just a short drive away. There, cobbled lanes and pastel buildings give way to mountain views, and a chairlift leads gently up into the hills.
The Art of Lasting Change
As evening falls, the villa returns to stillness. Windows are left open to let in the mountain air. Frogs from the pond begin their nightly chorus. It is in these quiet moments that the real power of Villa Eden reveals itself.
Villa Eden does not demand change. It invites it, gently, gracefully, and with care. When I left, it was not just with softer skin or clearer eyes. It was with a deeper sense of alignment. A renewed sense of self. And a longing to return.
