If you’ve read much of my work, you’ll know we have a daughter with epilepsy. Her condition has proven to be quite drug-resistant, and we’ve been seeking non-pharmaceutical therapies to support her alongside traditional anti-seizure medications. This journey led us to Austria last year for a visit to the Lanserhof Clinic (you can read about that experience [here]). The results were encouraging, and we’ve since decided to make an annual trip dedicated solely to our health.
This year, our Lanserhof retreat became a full family affair. We brought our daughters, 20 and 17, for our second visit and opted to experience a different location—Lanserhof Sylt, in northern Germany.
Credit: Momtrends MediaEasing In: A Family Stop and Some Jet Lag Recovery
Before beginning our treatments, we spent a few days visiting friends and family in southern Germany. We hiked through gorgeous terrain and adjusted to the time change. It was the perfect way to shake off jet lag, so by the time we arrived in Sylt, we were refreshed and ready to immerse ourselves in the experience. We connected through Frankfurt and arrived via a small regional flight. By the time we reached Lanserhof, we were fully on European time (six hours ahead of home).
About Sylt
Getting to Sylt isn’t easy—it’s a remote island in the northernmost part of Germany. From our balcony, we could see Denmark. After our short flight from Frankfurt, we landed at a tiny airport with just two runways and one luggage carousel. The drive to the property was quick and scenic.
Sylt reminded me a bit of Nantucket. Pretty cottages with manicured lawns and picture-perfect flower boxes dotted the landscape. Many had traditional thatched roofs, which added to the charm. (Note: a deeper dive into the history of thatched architecture here could be lovely.)
Bike paths zigzagged through wildflower fields, and cars routinely paused for pedestrians and sheep. Compared to the austere feel of the Lanserhof retreat near Innsbruck, this setting felt softer—like a luxury spa. Wild sea grass waved in the breeze, flags flapped above the rooftops, and we sipped our welcome smoothies in the sunshine.
Credit: Momtrends MediaPreparing for the Lanserhof Stay
Preparation for a Lanserhof visit starts before you arrive. Just as we eased into the time zone, we eased into the dietary adjustments. Two weeks ahead of our trip, we cut back on sugar, reduced caffeine (mostly—I snuck in a cappuccino or two), and eliminated alcohol. Arriving “cold turkey” without adjustments would’ve made the experience more difficult.
We also prepped with updated bloodwork and, most importantly, personal reflection. I took time off to journal and set health goals. Our first trip had focused entirely on our younger daughter. While I lost a few pounds and learned I eat too quickly, I hadn’t made meaningful progress toward long-term health. In my exit interview, the doctor told me: You need to invest in your own health if you want to help your daughter. That landed.
My Goals This Time Around
This year, I was intentional about making space for my own wellness journey:
- Focus on my health. Give my husband and daughters space—there’s a team here to care for them.
- Create something every day—writing, sketching, reflecting.
- Take a social media fast and notice where that reclaimed time goes.
- Be kind to my 54-year-old body. Aim to be the best version of me.
- Pay attention to my habits around food, rest, and recovery.
The Sylt Property
Lanserhof Sylt opened in 2022 and features 55 rooms and suites. The architecture honors the natural landscape with thatched roofs, minimalist design, and soft, coastal tones. The common areas are cozy yet modern—clean-lined furniture, warm wood accents, and well-placed fireplaces. The main lounge includes a grand piano (with live music on weekends) and inviting seating perfect for games or reading.
We stayed in a deluxe suite with a stunning North Sea view, while our daughters had a beautifully appointed standard room. The one issue: no air circulation. While the climate is typically mild and A/C isn’t standard, several nights were uncomfortably warm. My husband even slept outside on the lounge chair one night. Fortunately, cooler weather arrived midweek, and sleep improved dramatically.
Overall, Sylt is a major upgrade from Lans. The bathrooms were larger, more luxurious, and included deep soaking tubs. The outdoor pool was perfectly heated for lap swimming, and we spent many hours there reading and sunning. The sauna area offered three sauna rooms and a steam room. A cold plunge or outdoor hot tub would’ve been nice additions.
The gym was well-equipped, though the heat persisted there too. Daily activities included early morning beach walks, afternoon Nordic hikes, and a range of fitness classes. A highlight: the Sound Bath with Jenny—a must-try.
The personal training team was outstanding. My daughter and I worked with Simon. He developed a strength plan for my early-stage osteopenia and addressed her posture and hamstring flexibility. The guidance was expert and personalized.
The Lanserhof Menu
Though portions are small, the food is exceptional. Every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced and beautifully plated.
Each guest receives a personalized nutrition plan, reviewed during your intake appointment. We were placed on Diet 3.1, designed to promote fasting benefits with no snacking and structured meal timing. I aimed to lower my cortisol, reset my gut, and maintain weight. My diet was calibrated at 1200 calories/day (my baseline), and 1800 calories on active days.
Here’s how the daily menu worked:
- Saltwater Flush: Epsom salt in warm water—taken one hour before breakfast.
- Breakfast (7 a.m.): Wheatgrass shot, bitter drops, then yogurt or porridge with probiotic-rich spelt bread and a small serving of cottage cheese or avocado.
- Snack: Not really a concept here. Instead, light bone broth is served mid-morning.
- Tea: Herbal blends are offered all day—options include Fasting, Women’s Health, and Immune Boost.
- Lunch (12 p.m.): The main meal. It began with butter drops and vinegar, followed by vegetable soup or dessert (we always chose dessert), and a main dish of vegetables plus a protein like fish, chicken, or egg.
- Dinner (5:30 p.m.): Very light—vegetable soup with a slice of bread and a bit of cheese.
Important rule: No drinking water with meals. Guests are encouraged to chew thoroughly (30 times per bite) to support digestion.
Health Check-Ins and Custom Plans
Every guest receives a full health assessment, including bloodwork and metabolic testing. You’re assigned a doctor who meets with you several times throughout your stay to guide your treatment plan. Options are extensive—bone density testing, cortisol screening, and much more.
The combination of medical and holistic treatments is what makes Lanserhof unique. For every diagnostic test, there’s also reflexology, reiki, facial treatments, and massage.
The Lanserhof Experience
The pace is yours to set. Some days we kept our schedules light to explore the island—we took a boat to see nearby seals and biked along the coast. We also lounged, read, played cards, and even did some watercolor painting. I had long, meaningful conversations with my daughters about health and wellness.
While most guests were over 50, we believe it’s never too early to invest in your well-being. Our daughters were the youngest there, but the experience was truly a gift.
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothes/loungwear: think oversized cashmere sweaters and cozy leggings.
- Sneakers. They provide Birkenstock slippers for everyone to where around the resort, but you’ll want workout shoes and good walking shoes for the adventures.
- Books. There is plenty of downtime.
- Workout gear.
- Layers. There were afternoon storms many days
- Swimsuit with goggles for the gorgeous lap pool
- A journal or notebook to write all your reflections
The Results
My bloodwork showed a significant drop in cortisol after just one week. The bigger takeaway: finding space for stillness. Our usual go-go-go pace was replaced by quiet, focus, and connection. I came home recharged—not just physically, but mentally.
I know this type of vacation isn’t for everyone. But if you’re curious about the intersection of wellness and science—and want to explore a different kind of self-care—Lanserhof is a powerful place to start.
Credit: Momtrends MediaExplore More
Lanserhof Lans — Tyrol, Austria
The original flagship, near Innsbruck. Known for its alpine setting and integrative medicine approach.
Lanserhof Tegernsee — Bavaria, Germany
A lakeside spa retreat that blends diagnostics, treatments, and tranquil views.
Lanserhof at The Arts Club — London, UK
A members-only medical gym and wellness club in Mayfair.
Coming in 2026: Lanserhof Marbella — Marbella, Spain
Set within the exclusive Finca Cortesin estate. The new resort will offer 70 rooms and suites, medical diagnostics, and extensive spa and wellness offerings.
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