PIA KNOESTER, THE VISIONARY BEHIND HELGABAD, SHARES HER JOURNEY FROM THE BEAUTY AND PERSONAL CARE INDUSTRY TO THE CREATION OF A BRAND CENTRED AROUND WATER
AND MINDFULNESS. HELGABAD IS NOT JUST ABOUT PRODUCTS; IT’S ABOUT ENHANCING EVERY-
DAY MOMENTS INTO SOMETHING SACRED. IN THIS INTERVIEW, PIA EXPLORES THE SIGNIFICANCE
OF WATER IN BOTH PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING, AND HOW HER PERSONAL EXPERIENCES SHAPED HER UNDERSTANDING OF ITS POWER.

How do you capture the essence of a place? One way to do it is through language. Learning basic words and phrases doesn’t just show respect, it also helps you to understand the people and their region a little better. It’s particularly interesting in South Tyrol, where melodic Italian meets rustic Tyrolean, resulting in as many dialects as there are valleys.

Hidden among the more famous Cycladic islands like Santorini and Mykonos lies Folegandros – an island that, despite its unparalleled beauty, remains off the beaten tourist track. Here, where rugged cliffs plunge into the crystal-clear Aegean Sea and picturesque villages dot the hilly landscape, you can experience the authentic Greece in its purest form.

The Alentejo region, one of Portugal’s most untouched areas, has been gaining more and more attention in recent years. In particular, the small coastal village of Comporta has become a magnet for travelers seeking the antithesis of mass tourism. Nestled amidst rice fields, pine forests, and endless sandy beaches, a new form of tourism is emerging here—one centered on mindfulness, sustainability, and slow living.

Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany lies the charming Follonico Hotel in Montefollonico, a small, hidden village known for its authentic atmosphere and picturesque landscape. Follonico is more than just a hotel – it’s a place that captures the soul of the region, offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in true Tuscan life.

Törggelen is one of the oldest and most authentic traditions in South Tyrol, still cherished by locals and visitors alike. This autumn custom combines convivial evenings with good food, wine, and the picturesque landscapes of South Tyrol’s vineyards. But what exactly is Törggelen, where does the term come from, and how can this special tradition be experienced in connection with modern Lifestylehotels?

The Schladming-Dachstein region attracts outdoor enthusiasts in autumn with its breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse activities. From the centrally located Stadthotel Brunner in Schladming, hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers can explore the impressive alpine landscape and then relax in modern comfort. This stylish hotel combines authenticity and luxury and offers the ideal starting point for an unforgettable autumn holiday in the mountains.

The south of Tenerife is known for its sunny climate, breathtaking landscapes and a perfect blend of nature and culture. While many visitors head for the famous beaches such as Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje, the south of the island offers much more – off the beaten track, there are hidden treasures that are deeply rooted in the island’s history and nature.

In the heart of the picturesque Istria region of Croatia lies the Meneghetti Wine Estate, a winery renowned not only for its exceptional wines but also for its luxurious hotel and culinary offerings. Here, tradition, innovation, and elegance merge into an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate fine wine and exclusive service.

Forest bathing, or “Shinrin Yoku” in Japanese, literally means “taking a bath in the atmosphere of the forest.” This nature therapy originated in Japan in the 1980s as a way to combat the rising stress levels of urban populations. It doesn’t involve actual bathing, but rather immersing oneself in the forest and fully experiencing the surroundings with all the senses.

Berlin, known for its relentless energy, vibrant creativity, and historical diversity, is a city that never rests. Among the bustling streets, endless cultural offerings, and the city’s fast-paced rhythm, finding a peaceful haven may seem impossible. Yet, in the Westend district of Berlin, there lies an unexpected refuge: the Hotel Wilmina.

In the heart of Umbria, surrounded by the untouched nature of central Italy, stands the Eremito Hotel – a place that redefines peace and relaxation in a truly unique way. Marcello Murzilli, the creative mind behind this extraordinary hotel project, speaks with THE Stylemate about his motivations, his philosophy, and why Eremito is a one-of-a-kind retreat for the modern traveler.