Warmth for the senses: the best herbs and infusions to combat the autumn blues

Outside, a crisp autumn breeze sweeps across the slopes of the Bartholomäberg; the leaves rustle softly and the temperatures prompt us to wrap our layers of clothing more tightly around us. As the days grow noticeably shorter, our bodies and minds long for just two things: deep-seated warmth and a sense of cosy tranquillity.

After all, the so-called autumn blues are no figment of the imagination – they are our body’s biological signal to slow down a gear. At Hotel Fernblick, we don’t face this season with hustle and bustle, but with the balancing power of the Alps. Swiss stone pine, mountain herbs and essential oils clear the airways, strengthen the immune system and give you exactly the right amount of warmth that your wellbeing needs right now.

A new dimension to your tranquillity: our Me(e)hr_blick Spa

Our newly designed spa facilities invite you to do just that: gentle, natural tones, stylish wallpaper and warm lighting create a space where it’s easy to settle in and let go. Fine stone, soft velvet fabrics and modern product displays invite you to explore high-quality textures and scents with all your senses.

Alpine Essences: Why herbs and Swiss stone pine work wonders in autumn

When the cold air outside puts a strain on the respiratory tract, alpine natural remedies reveal their full potential:

• Swiss stone pine – the queen of relaxation: The wood and essential oils of Swiss stone pine are renowned for their warm, resinous and spicy scent. They have been proven to aid recovery, deepen breathing and provide immediate relaxation for the nervous system. A session in our fragrant Swiss stone pine sauna noticeably relaxes the muscles after an autumn hike.
• Local mountain herbs for deep regeneration: Released via hot steam or warm compresses, they stimulate blood circulation and clear the airways. During our compress ritual, based on Kurland’s Permanent Contour® concept, herbal compresses are gently glided over your body. We use herbs and oils specially tailored to the four elements, which specifically activate the metabolism, stimulate lymphatic flow and firm the tissue.
• Holistic natural cosmetics: Alongside Kurland’s traditional wraps and compresses, we use certified organic whey-based cosmetics from vielö (ideal for strengthening the skin barrier, which often becomes dry in autumn) and antioxidant active ingredients derived from grapes by Vinoble Cosmetics.
   

Rediscover deep warmth and worlds of sound

If, alongside alpine herbs, you’re seeking complete deep relaxation, you’ll find two very special new highlights at Fernblick:

• The quartz lounger: Warm quartz sand envelops your body like a protective cocoon. The gentle, deep-penetrating warmth reaches deep into your muscles and is complemented by soothing massage movements in the back and neck area – a wonderfully cosy break on chilly autumn days.
• RLX BrainGym™ lounger: Gentle vibrations, vibroacoustic impulses and harmonious soundscapes bring your mind and body into harmony. Perfect for switching off mentally and recharging your batteries.

Fernblick Service: 2 simple rituals for your autumn wellness at home

Can’t make it to Bartholomäberg straight away? Simply bring that feeling of alpine comfort and relief for your senses into your own bathroom:

1. The Alpine steam inhalation ritual for clear airways

Especially when the dry air from the heating dries out your mucous membranes, a 10-minute herbal inhalation feels like a mini-break for your lungs.

• Here’s how: Place a handful of dried chamomile flowers or thyme, or 2 drops of pure Swiss stone pine or mountain pine oil, into a bowl of hot (but no longer boiling) water.
• The ritual: Lean over the bowl with a towel draped over your head and breathe deeply and evenly through your nose and out through your mouth for 5 to 10 minutes. Close your eyes, feel the soothing moisture and enjoy the woody scent. 

2. Nourishing honey and herb scrub for velvety autumn skin

Before your skin gets dry under thick woollen jumpers, a quick DIY body scrub made from ingredients in your kitchen will restore suppleness and stimulate microcirculation.

• Here’s how: Mix 3 tbsp coarse sea salt or brown sugar with 2 tbsp olive or almond oil and 1 tsp runny forest honey. If you like, add 1 drop of lavender or Swiss stone pine essential oil.
• The ritual: After a warm shower, massage the mixture into your still-damp skin using gentle circular movements (focusing particularly on your elbows, knees and legs), then rinse off with warm, clear water only. The honey has antibacterial properties and locks in moisture, whilst the oil leaves a velvety protective film.

Time for your own personal autumn reset

Whether it’s with a cup of fragrant mountain herbal tea on the sofa or during a sauna ritual with unobstructed views of the autumnal Montafon: make a conscious effort to take some time out over the coming weeks to pause and recharge.
If you’re ready for a break above the clouds, our spa team will welcome you with open arms.