Wellness Tourism: Body and Mind
Spa Evolution: From Cure to Care
Traditional thermal stations reinvent themselves:
Medical Heritage to Modern Wellness - Vichy: From liver cures to lifestyle programs - Évian: Water brand leveraging for tourism - Aix-les-Bains: Combining thermal and lake activities
Innovation in Wellness - Forest bathing programs in Fontainebleau - Sound healing in Loire châteaux - Detox retreats in Provence - Sleep therapy in mountain resorts
Dr. Sophie Durand, spa medical director: "Grandmothers came for three-week cures prescribed by doctors. Granddaughters come for weekend wellness escapes. We've adapted while maintaining our medical credibility."
Retreat Tourism: Temporary Transformation
France hosts 300+ retreat centers:
Yoga and Meditation - Plum Village: Thich Nhat Hanh's Buddhist center - Château retreats: Luxury yoga experiences - Silent retreats in monasteries - Digital detox programs
Creative Retreats - Writing workshops in inspirational settings - Painting holidays in Giverny - Photography tours following famous artists - Music camps in medieval villages