Here’s a brand-new hotel that can truly boast one of the finest spas in Europe . Set in a superb region of the Italian Alps, it’s an ideal choice in summer and winter for mountain lovers, thanks to the many activities on offer. The Lefay Dolomiti‘s design and coziness are immediately appealing. Pascal Languillon, CEO of Luxe Wellness Club, tells us about his experience. Spoiler: he loves it!
A resolutely designer mountain chalet atmosphere
The Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, which we introduced here, is located around 3 hours from Milan in the village of Pinzolo, flanked by wooded mountains. We’re here in the Dolomites, that magnificent region of northern Italy that has nothing to envy our Alps. The Madonna di Campiglio ski resort can be reached without a car, with the cable cars just a 5-minute walk away, so you can take your skis straight from the hotel.
I was there in autumn, and the favorite activity here, apart from hiking, is riding the electric mountain bikes courtesy of the hotel. In particular, there’s a cycle path that crosses the entire valley, taking you from village to village while admiring the unspoilt scenery. I loved this activity, as the bike we borrowed was of very good quality: the climbs were so easy!
The atmosphere of the hotel is very warm, with the use of beautiful materials, wood and stone. The lounge-bar area is particularly pleasant, with comfortable armchairs and huge picture windows that let you immerse yourself in the landscape. Wood fires are lit in the fireplace, and outside in the evening. There’s also a reading corner with interesting books, including a magnificent work on yoga.
The 90-suite hotel is imposing, and also has “residences” that can be rented if you prefer an apartment with your own kitchen.
Warm, modern suites
The hotel’s promotional photos give a sense of the design and polish of the interior architecture, and the reality is very much in line with this impression. Modern design can sometimes be cold, but not here. I found my room very welcoming.
The bathroom is magnificent, with its large white bathtub and bay window giving a glimpse of the sleeping area. I really liked the courtesy products: olive shampoo, lemon shower gel… The entire cosmetics range is natural, not tested on animals, and features successful packaging.
An amusing detail: the fireplace is actually a hologram, with a crackling sound that can be adjusted by remote control. Indeed, regional regulations prohibited the use of gas in the rooms, but the illusion is perfect.
Here’s a video I shot of the Prestige Junior Suite:
I also visited the other types of suites. Deluxe Junior Suites are similar, but with a better view. Special mention should be made of the “Exclusive spa suite” with its superb black marble bathtub and sauna. The Royal Pool & Spa Suite is a true marvel, with its outdoor Jacuzzi and large lounge.
A futuristic spa that’s already a global benchmark
The Lefay Dolomiti spa is spread over 5000 m² and three floors. An indoor/outdoor pool that allows you to swim outside whatever the weather, another designer swimming pool, an impressive number of saunas, and relaxation rooms with different atmospheres… The spa has already won numerous international awards despite having just opened in 2019!
The spa is huge, but what strikes you above all is the quality of the equipment and the beauty of the design with its futuristic lines. During my stay, there was a very rainy day, and what is usually a source of frustration is transformed here into a godsend. How fortunate to be able to bask for hours in this magical spa while the elements rage outside!
It’s also worth noting that children are not allowed in the spa, which promises total peace and quiet.
I particularly enjoyed swimming in the rain in the outdoor pool. Special mention must also be made of the Finnish sauna, with its breathtaking views, and the various relaxation rooms that create a magical atmosphere.
Sporty swimming in the large indoor pool is another of the resort’s undeniable assets.
The sauna area alone covers 1700 m², with an energy circuit inspired by Chinese medicine and created in collaboration with the Lefay Spa Method scientific team.
On the third floor are the treatment rooms, and I enjoyed an excellent “Linfa del Bosco” signature massage. This is an aromatic massage performed using olive oil produced by Lefay, as well as essential oils extracted from plants, flowers and shrubs from the surrounding mountains, which have renowned healing properties. This massage was given with a slow, delicate technique. I found it very relaxing.
Of course, it’s not all about lounging. The spa has a fitness room equipped with the latest Technogym machines, and I was lucky enough to take part in two quality group classes (pilates and abs), with a friendly young instructor.
There’s also a yoga room. Simply ask for a mat to practice on, or join one of the organized classes.
As at Lefay on Lake Garda, there are numerous health programs on offer. The difference here is that there is no medical consultation.
Two restaurants to please your taste buds
The hotel has two restaurants. Grual is the organic gourmet restaurant , rumored to be star-worthy, that uses only local produce, with a forest and mountain theme. An interesting concept that I didn’t have the chance to try, as the restaurant only opens a few nights a week out of season.
The other restaurant is called Dolomia. It also features local ingredients and Italian cuisine, with a modern twist. As at Lefay on Lake Garda, there’s a choice of light, healthy dishes, indicated by a “Lefay Spa” logo. I really liked the scallops with ricotta and mint, the trout fillet with hazelnuts, and the buckwheat salad.
Breakfasts are gargantuan, with a wide choice of pastries and cereals, cheeses and hams, and eggs cooked in every possible way. I loved the drooling omelettes.
On the healthy side, you can extract your own vegetable and fruit juices using a dedicated machine.
Our feeling
Everything is beautiful at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, but the real star here is the spa. It’s so big that you’ll need several days to enjoy all the facilities. We’d almost go so far as to say it’s the most beautiful spa in the Alps! In any case, a hotel to be booked as a matter of urgency.
Luxe Wellness Club
Book (with exclusive Luxe Wellness Club benefits)
Take advantage of our expertise and ask us for a quote for a wellness stay at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, whose wellness packages are offered exclusively on the French-speaking market by Luxe Wellness Club.
Rates: From around 300 euros per night for the room in low season, excluding the cost of wellness programs. Free treatments for all Luxe Wellness Club bookings and guaranteed room upgrade from Prestige to Deluxe for stays of one week or more.
or call us for the USA on +1 (646) 980 6652 for the UK on +44 20 4577 3258 to discuss your holiday plans.
