Romagna Wellness Week: 300+ Events Celebrate Healthy Living

From May 17th to 26th, the Romagna region transforms into a vibrant hub of wellness, hosting over 300 events throughout its captivating coastal and inland landscapes. This annual Wellness Week, held within the internationally recognized Wellness Valley, offers a diverse program catering to all fitness levels and interests. The picturesque parks of historic cities, pristine beaches, rolling hills, and the stunning Apennine Mountains provide breathtaking backdrops for an array of outdoor activities.

Participants can choose from a wide selection of fitness options, ranging from traditional disciplines to cutting-edge trends. Beyond physical activities, the week features workshops led by Michelin-starred chefs, healthcare professionals, and naturopaths, focusing on nutritious eating, skincare, and combating the negative effects of prolonged smartphone use. Many thermal spas, wellness centers, and fitness facilities throughout the Wellness Valley will also host open days, offering exclusive access to their rejuvenating facilities.

The Wellness Week builds upon the region’s reputation as a leader in promoting a high quality of life. According to the Wellness Valley Report, a collaborative study by the Wellness Foundation, the Emilia-Romagna Region, the University of Bologna, and key stakeholders, Romagna boasts the highest proportion of healthy and active residents in Italy (+10% above the national average). This makes it the perfect location for a celebration of healthy living, providing year-round opportunities for outdoor activities, group and individual fitness programs, access to high-quality cuisine, and a wealth of spa and thermal experiences.

This year’s program includes some of Romagna’s most anticipated competitive events. These range from the prestigious 49th edition of the Nove Colli gran fondo cycling race (May 19th, Cesenatico), a globally renowned 200km challenge through the Apennine mountains, to the 100km del Passatore footrace (May 25th-26th) traversing the Tosco-Romagnolo Apennines, and the Stracesena charity run (May 26th). A variety of other sporting events are planned, including basketball tournaments, triathlon camps, outdoor CrossFit sessions, functional fitness training, and cycling tours along the Giro d’Italia route.

However, athletic prowess is not a prerequisite for participation. Roughly one-third of the events are designed for all ages and fitness levels, including children. Activities include guided wellness walks through charming villages and along scenic beaches, nature trails, historical and cultural explorations, and even pet-friendly excursions. Photography walks, evening strolls under the stars, cycling adventures along the coast and hills, outdoor personal training sessions, and Nordic walking are just a few examples.

Wellness extends beyond physical activity; proper nutrition plays a vital role. Consequently, the Wellness Week incorporates numerous healthy food workshops and cooking classes, guiding participants towards conscious and healthful food choices. Among the culinary highlights are a scenic tour through seven wineries in Oriolo dei Fichi, a session on deciphering food labels in Forlì, and gourmet healthy cooking classes taught by a Michelin-starred chef in the Tosco-Romagnolo Apennines. Casa Artusi, a renowned center of gastronomic culture, offers guided tours and special wellness menus throughout the week, while a mountain biking tour in Valconca concludes with a tasting of organic, biodynamic wines.

Finally, the pursuit of holistic wellbeing is addressed through activities like barefoot walking with plantar reflexology, Shiatsu, and yoga. For a complete schedule and to register for events, please visit www.wellnessweek.it.