Our Wellbeing Specialist Helen was lucky enough to spend a few nights at the stunning Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti in Italy. She was really impressed and shares her feedback with us.
What were your first impressions?
Without a doubt, this new resort certainly has a ‘wow’ factor. As soon as you step out of your vehicle, you gaze down across the resort, with its peak-inspired architecture and huge outdoor pool, and further across the valley to the mountains below. The reception team are helpful and efficient and the lobby leads onto a bar which has a smooth, Mr-Bond feel. You can certainly imagine curling up there after a day on the slopes, watching the snow fall.
What was the spa like?
Enormous. Impressive. Immaculate. So huge in fact I suggest asking for a little tour on your arrival there, so that you don’t miss a hidden sauna or steam area. Be sure to experience the sauna which has the most divine view across the valley and also the orange-blossom infused sauna. One area of the spa is for women-only while the rest is mixed but, being the Tyrol and so close to Austria, be pre-warned that nudity is permitted in the sauna area… I especially loved the salt float pool area, reserved for treatments but with incredible décor.
Did you try any of the treatments?
Yes, a signature massage. I had a male therapist who was superb and the protocol was second to none. With Lefay, you know you are in safe, experienced hands.
What was the food like?
Top notch, with plenty of local options on the menu. We visited in the autumn, soon after the resort opened, so the Grual Organic Restaurant wasn’t open then, but the main restaurant called the Dolomia Restaurant was fully operational with an unobtrusive but ever-present team, who greeted us by name. The healthy options were outstanding (part of the Vital Gourmet range), so too the more indulgent dishes. Breakfast was a buffet, with ample choice and divine views. A tip is to reserve a window seat at least once in the Dolomia Restaurant for an evening meal, to maximise those floor-to-ceiling mountain views (perhaps striking it lucky to see the sunset too, depending on the time of year and hour of dining).
What do you think makes the resort so special?
It’s a combination of things. The stunning location for sure, along with the striking architecture, their eco-credentials and absolute attention to detail. The spa area is enormous, one of the largest I’ve seen, while the Lefay spa protocol and quality of treatments are spot on. The indoor-outdoor heated swimming pool is at the heart of the hotel and no doubt a highlight in all seasons. On top of this, this hotel appeals to both a gourmet foodie along with a clean-eating wellness bunny, so it’s the best of both worlds.
Did you do anything in the area?
Apart from walk into the quaint little village of Pinzolo and stroll along the river, I have to say the temptation to relax within the resort was too strong during our three night autumnal stay but if we returned for longer, I would love to hike in the summer or ski in the winter.
Who would you recommend it to?
A couple or a few friends looking for a luxury break away, with wellness, skiing and nature on the doorstep. It would also suit an independent solo traveller looking for space and privacy, as well as a family, given their small kids club and accommodating team.
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