PORTER Postcard: The Dolomites

A jagged range of the Eastern Alps, the Dolomites offer one of Europe’s most spectacular landscapes. With incredible, towering rocky peaks rising out of rolling alpine meadows, it is no wonder they are recognized with Unesco World Heritage status. There is year-round magic here: verdant hikes and wild lake swimming mark the spring/summer season, while in winter the snowy valleys come to life with the hum of skiers headed for world-class slopes. But whatever the season, there is a multitude of wellness experiences, a unique cultural blend of Italian, German, Austrian and local Ladin that makes for decadent dining, and masterpiece sunsets illuminating the rocks in vivid hues.

The otherworldly Dolomiti landscape of sheer cliffs, lakes and vineyard-lined valleys is scattered with storybook towns and glorious resorts. At the latter, plush interiors and state-of-the-art facilities rival the awe-inspiring environment for filling guests’ time. Lefay Resort & Spa is sequestered between pine-forested peaks in Pinzolo, conveniently close to the Madonna di Campiglio ski area. A striking glass-and-timber structure that appears after a particularly picturesque journey, guests sink into luxuriously adorned lounges with fairytale views from the moment they arrive. The dedicated wellness spaces are vast and the suites are exceptional, with the very best offering your own personal spa areas – from bathroom saunas and jacuzzis to rooftop whirlpools.

Beyond the contemporary or chalet-style retreats, there is the stunning and ancient Castel Badia. With a thousand years of history to delve into, it was originally built as a fortress and then became Tyrol’s first female Benedictine convent, but has now been reinvigorated as a 28-room hotel, with original frescoes, age-old stonework combined with sleek, modern interiors. Its extraordinary spa turns former monastic cells into treatment rooms, while an ancient herbal garden and outdoor heated pools overlooking the mountains blend centuries-old healing traditions with perfectly luxurious living.

The Dolomites have also become a popular destination for families, combining Italy’s delight in young visitors with experiences that every generation can enjoy. AKI Family Resort Plose is a paradise for children and adults alike, with every detail ensuring that it feels like a proper vacation for all (from the fantastic kids’ club and family relaxation areas to an alpaca farm and the adults-only forest spa, set far enough in the trees to be totally tranquil). The warm, elemental design celebrates the natural surroundings. Think lots of beautiful timber and panoramic windows so that you can all enjoy the view as much as possible.

And there are boutique hotel options too. Saltus is a cool, in-the-know sanctuary of a hotel located above the city of Bolzano. Helmed by three women – sisters Claudia, Nadja and their mother Hedwig – its residence amongst the treetops means that a dip in the cloud-skimming infinity pool at sunset is a must. In its traditional restaurant, the chefs work with local farmers and the onsite gardens to craft beautiful and nourishing menus that change daily. A rotating program of exhibitions collaborate with artisans from the area too.

While many flock to the mountains for high-octane adventure, wellness experiences are equally enticing in the Dolomites, thanks to traditional alpine healing therapies, natural thermal resources, and an array of excellent spas.

Lefay’s sprawls across three storeys of the resort, a labyrinth of saunas (there are no fewer than nine), pools (indoor, outdoor, saltwater, ice, whirl), fitness studios, relaxation rooms and gardens. At Saltus, the intimate Forest Spa has a hay sauna, steam room and rooftop relaxation space, while personal wellness programs can be tailored for guests from the weekly schedule of yoga, Pilates, Qi Gong, forest bathing and meditation.

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