Italy Lodge Views Weren’t Even the Best Part

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A Dolomites Dream: Inside the Luxurious Forestis Hotel

My recent stay at the five-star Forestis Hotel, nestled high in the Italian Dolomites, was nothing short of breathtaking. From the moment I awoke to the majestic peaks practically peering through my floor-to-ceiling windows, I knew this was going to be a special experience.

Forestis isn’t just a hotel; it’s an immersive nature escape. Originally envisioned as a sanatorium in the early 20th century, the property’s focus on healing and connection with nature is evident in every detail. The hotel, comprised of three modern towers and a renovated historic villa, sits at an altitude of 5,905 meters near the charming town of Brixen.

The commitment to natural elements is woven throughout the hotel, from the spruce-paneled walls in the suites to the mountain pine and Swiss stone pine scents used in the spa. My suite was a minimalist haven of spruce wood and glass, with a king-sized bed perfectly positioned to take in the stunning mountain views.

A private balcony, complete with a daybed, offered an even closer connection to the surrounding landscape. And the little touches, like the nightly delivery of truffles and chocolates, added a touch of personalized luxury.

But the true highlight of Forestis is the 21,500-square-foot spa. The centerpiece is a stunning indoor-outdoor pool, seamlessly connected by sliding glass doors, allowing guests to swim from the warmth of the indoors to the crisp mountain air.

Multiple saunas, steam rooms, and a traditional South Tyrolean wooden sauna house provided ample opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. The daily sauna ritual, led by a spa team member named Saro, was a truly unique experience, combining heat, essential oils, music, and movement.

The subsequent cold plunge left me feeling both invigorated and deeply relaxed.

Beyond the spa, Forestis offered a wealth of activities, from guided hikes to meditation sessions. As an avid skier, I was thrilled by the hotel’s ski-in, ski-out access to the slopes of Plose Mountain.

Dining at Forestis was another exceptional experience. The seven-course dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the surrounding forest, was a culinary delight.

From South Tyrolean apple salads to vegan ravioli with fennel and perfectly cooked duck breast, each dish was a work of art. And the breakfast buffet?

Simply the most extravagant I’ve ever encountered, with a dizzying array of pastries, breads, cheeses, and fresh juices.

My time at Forestis was a blissful escape. Weeks later, I’m still reminiscing about the stunning views, the rejuvenating spa treatments, and the overall sense of tranquility. It’s a truly special place, and one I highly recommend to anyone seeking a luxurious and nature-focused getaway.


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