Thalassotherapy
"On a privileged marine site, thalassotherapy is the combined use, under medical supervision and with a curative or preventive purpose, of the benefits of the marine environment, including the marine climate, seawater, marine mud, seaweed, sand and other substances extracted from the sea." 
Although the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used mud baths, the benefits of the sea were somewhat neglected in France until the 19th century. The term thalassotherapy was born in 1867, composed of Greek words by Doctor de la Bonnardière, in Arcachon, one of Aquitaine’s famous seaside resorts.
Initially, thalassotherapy was practised for strictly medical purposes, for example for functional rehabilitation. Today, although thalassotherapy is still prescribed by doctors, it is also a cure used simply to relax the body rather than to treat it. In the range of programmes on offer, there is something for everyone – men, women, young mothers, senior citizens…
Art de vivre and relaxation… these are qualities of life in Aquitaine, to which can be added the sea air. From Arcachon in the north to Hendaye in the south and taking in Anglet, Biarritz and Saint-Jean-de-Luz on the way, without forgetting the naturist thalassotherapy centre at Euronat, height establishments will welcome you all year round in the mild Aquitaine climate.
:: Anglet:www.atlanthal.com
:: Arcachon:www.thalazur.fr
:: Biarritz, Thalassa Miramar: www.sofitel-thalassa-miramar-biarritz.com and Thalmar :www.biarritz-thalasso.com
:: Euronat:www.euronat.fr
:: Hendaye:www.thalassoblanco.com
:: Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Helianthal:www.helianthal.fr and Loreamar Grand Hôtel:www.luzgrandhotel.fr
Inside these centres the equipment is modern and the staff professional. Outside, the remarkably preserved environment offers possibilities for walks to take you wherever you want to go. And to top off this harmonious atmosphere, most thalassotherapy centres are associated with fine, prestigious hotels …
For a weekend or a longer stay, give yourself a head-to-toe thalassotherapy treatment!
More information on spas with the special “Pamper Yourself” feature.
