Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinic in Überlingen, on the shores of Lake Constance, has introduced a holistic new heat-therapy programme built around its just-opened Panorama Sauna Bellevue - combining state-of-the-art thermal spaces with medically guided protocols designed to support regeneration, cardiovascular health and stress relief during fasting.

Far more than a conventional hotel sauna, the 150-square-metre thermal area brings together a Finnish panoramic sauna, a gentle 60°C bio-sauna, infrared heat and salt inhalation therapy, all overlooking sweeping views of Lake Constance and the Alps. The new thermal offering forms part of Buchinger Wilhelmi's integrated approach to healing and longevity, supporting the nervous system, circulation, sleep, and musculoskeletal recovery during fasting.

“The result is the most beautiful and unique panoramic sauna on Lake Constance, with 180-degree views of the lake, the Alps and Mainau Island,” says Leonard Wilhelmi, CEO of Buchinger Wilhelmi Clinics.

Medically guided heat therapy
Scientific Director Dr Robin Mesnage explains:
“Regular sauna use is associated with improved vascular function, lower blood pressure and a re-duced risk of cardiovascular disease. Heat exposure gently challenges the cardiovascular system in a way like light physical activity, while activating the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to reduce stress hormones and support deeper rest and better sleep. Circulation to muscles and joints also increases, easing tension and stiffness.”

Therapeutic rituals led by a World Champion
The centrepiece of the Finnish sauna is a programme of traditional Aufguss rituals: therapeutic aromatic heat infusions in which scented ice is placed on the hot stones and wafted through the sauna using choreographed towel movements. At Buchinger Wilhelmi these are led by Maik Brandenburg, former World Aufguss Champion, an international competition title awarded for excellence in heat therapy ritual, technique and guest experience.

Sessions may be classic, aromatic or gentle and are often accompanied by sound therapy including singing bowls. A refreshing cold-water immersion or shower closes the ritual, supporting circulation and the autonomic nervous system.

Sauna Weeks with leading thermotherapy expert Dr Siegfried Bäumler
The clinic is also launching dedicated “Sauna Weeks”, guided by Dr Siegfried Bäumler, a respected authority in hydro- and thermotherapy and former senior physician at the renowned Kneippanium in Bad Wörishofen. The programme combines heat and cold exposure in a structured medical frame-work, reflecting Buchinger Wilhelmi's philosophy of thermoregulation as a foundation for healing and longevity, blending Kneipp principles with modern science.

Holistic design for deep rest
The thermal area also includes relaxation spaces, foot baths, saline inhalation therapy and a tea and water station with spring-fed fountain. The custom-built saunas are made from Swiss stone pine to harmonise with the body's natural rhythms and complement the fasting experience.

A cold-plunge pool is planned for late 2026, and sessions can already be combined with Kneipp hydrotherapy, aqua aerobics, barefoot sensory walking paths and the broader wellbeing programme.

About Buchinger Wilhelmi
Over 100 years, the Buchinger method in 2020, the Buchinger Wilhelmi wellness clinic was founded by Dr Otto Buchinger who was a medical doctor, philosopher and pioneer of medical fasting. The team today comprises seven doctors who span an array of specialisms from rheumatology to natur-opathy, homeopathy to diabetes, as well as massage therapists, counsellors, nutritionists and person-al trainers, who all help empower individuals to push their 'reset' button.  

Practically, if undertaking a 10-day fasting programme, the fasting element is around 6 days with 4 days re-introducing food. This is fresh, local and organic supplemented by herbal teas, freshly-made vegetable boullion and pressed fruit juices. Importantly at Buchinger Wilhelmi, physical and culture activities throughout a stay are also of paramount importance and include yoga, hiking, meditation, music concerts, art classes, cooking demonstrations and spa treatments. Shorter, well-ness booster stays which include healthy cuisine are also available.  

Ten-day fasting programmes start from €4,078 (approx. £3,530) per person – includes two consulta-tions with a doctor, daily nurse checkups, food/drink, fasting provisions, an allowance towards thera-pies and treatments, and daily activities. Shorter, non-fasting stays are also available from €1,356 (approx. £1,173) based on a minimum stay of three nights – includes one consultation with a doctor, food/drink, an allowance towards therapies and treatments and daily activities.