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The Dolomites Travel Guide

The Dolomites, Italian Alps

Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more

By Niamh Walsh on 4th December 2023

Discover the magic of the Dolomites – Italy's stunning mountain range that promises awe-inspiring views and unforgettable adventures.

Welcome to the Dolomites – a destination where every view is hand-crafted by Mother Nature herself. Whether you're someone who craves adventure, has a soft spot for the great outdoors, or just loves a touch of luxury, the Italian Alps are calling you with the sweet promise of both excitement and serenity.

Trails and Treks

The Dolomites boast a network of trails that cater to hikers of all levels. From the challenging peaks of Tre Cime to the serene meadows of Alpe di Siusi, each step reveals a new facet of this natural wonder. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the iconic Alta Via routes or opt for leisurely strolls through valleys adorned with wildflowers.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy
Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy


Climbing Adventures

For adrenaline junkies, the Dolomites offer some of the world's most iconic climbing routes. Scale the legendary rock formations like Cinque Torri and experience the thrill of conquering vertical heights with a backdrop that feels almost celestial.

Cinque Torri, Italy
Cinque Torri, Italy


Winter Wonderland

In the winter, the Dolomites transform into a snowy playground. Ski enthusiasts can carve through pristine slopes in resorts like Cortina d'Ampezzo, while those seeking a quieter experience can cross-country ski through enchanting snow-covered landscapes.

Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy


Charming Villages & Culture

Discover the charm of Dolomite villages like Ortisei (Urtijëi), with its wooden chalets and lively markets. Immerse yourself in the local culture, where centuries-old traditions coexist with contemporary lifestyles. Cafés and boutiques line the streets, providing an authentic taste of Dolomite hospitality.

Plan your visit around local festivals to experience the Dolomites in full swing. From the colourful celebrations of the Dolomiti Balloon Festival to the folklore-rich events in Val Gardena, these festivities offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region.

Ortisei, Italy
Ortisei, Italy


Where to Stay: Forestis and Hotel Granbaita Dolomites

FORESTIS

Perched on sunlit slopes overlooking the Dolomites, FORESTIS is not just a hotel; it's an elevated experience. The architectural marvel integrates into the natural landscape, offering panoramic views from every angle. The suites, designed with a keen eye for modern aesthetics, invite you to unwind in contemporary luxury. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outside in, creating a symbiotic relationship between the sleek interiors and the breathtaking Alpine scenery.

Penthouse Suite
Penthouse Suite

FORESTIS accommodations are more than rooms; they are sanctuaries suspended between heaven and earth. Each suite is a study in comfort and sophistication, with minimalist design elements that accentuate rather than distract from the surrounding beauty. Imagine waking up to the first light of dawn, the Dolomite peaks bathed in a soft glow just beyond your window. There is also a keen focus on sustainability, as each day a guest chooses not to use housekeeping, FORESTIS plants a tree, and has organised the planting of 7000+ trees in the region since opening in 2020.

FORESTIS Spa Pool
FORESTIS Spa Pool


The spa at FORESTIS is a haven for rejuvenation, and follows the principle of four native trees: mountain pine, spruce, larch and swiss. Indulge in ancient Alpine wellness rituals inspired by the Celtic Druids, letting skilled therapists guide you into a state of serenity. Or, explore one of the multiple saunas within the facility, where the scent of local herbs, and furnishings of natural wood and stone, will leave you in a perpetual state of relaxation. If you're feeling extra brave, take a dip in the outside cold plunge pool after your Finnish sauna session for a dopamine hit like no other!

The Herb Sauna
The Herb Sauna

FORESTIS transforms every season into an opportunity for exploration, offering expertly guided hikes suitable for all experience levels. Among these, sunrise hikes stand out as a truly spectacular experience. The Plose mountain boasts four captivating bike routes, winding their way through expansive, dense forests, turning sports into an immersive communion with nature.

Situated at an elevation of 1,800 meters above sea level, FORESTIS provides a playground for nature enthusiasts throughout the year. The allure of ski-in/ski-out beckons skiers to a hassle-free adventure—no tedious approaches to the ski area. Just don your ski boots, glide from the ski room at FORESTIS, and find yourself on the slopes. The Plose ski area, with its 45 kilometers of slopes, offers a harmonious mixture of blue, red, and black runs, catering to skiers of all levels. For non-skiers, toboggan runs and winter hiking trails provide alternative avenues of enjoyment.

Under the guidance of the FORESTIS hiking expert, guests can also don snowshoes for a captivating journey across frozen streams, snow-laden forests, and pristine snowfields within the Puez-Odle Natural Park. For those seeking an off-piste skiing adventure, a ski tour from FORESTIS to the Gabler, followed by a thrilling descent to the south, promises an exhilarating experience in the heart of winter wonder.

Ski-in/ski-out from FORESTIS
Ski-in/ski-out from FORESTIS

Dining at FORESTIS is an experience where the essence of the Alps is savoured in every bite, led by the skilled hands of Roland Lamprecht. His culinary philosophy, lovingly termed 'forest cuisine,' reflects a passion for natural ingredients. The kitchen team diligently gathers herbs and seasonal treasures during the summer, swiftly incorporating them into dishes or preserving them through age-old methods, ensuring that guests can relish the flavours of the region even during the winter months.

FORESTIS proudly sources its products from local farmers dedicated exclusively to replanting heirloom vegetable varieties. From fruits, citrus fruits, and fish to meats, sausages, ham, oils, and dairy products, all are carefully selected from nearby farmers and trusted suppliers throughout Italy. Bread, a cornerstone of the culinary experience at FORESTIS, is freshly baked in-house, while jams are crafted and preserved using proprietary recipes. Even the honey, sourced from the neighboring Mairhof, adds a sweet touch to the culinary offerings.

Roland Lamprecht skillfully melds Mediterranean influences with Alpine ingredients, resulting in seven-course menus meticulously curated daily to offer guests a true culinary odyssey. Despite sharing common foundational elements, each dish stands as a unique masterpiece, reflecting the creativity and dedication of the kitchen team.

FORESTIS restaurant
No view is obstructed at the FORESTIS restaurant

FORESTIS lead in rate: starts from 720 euros per night (approx. £626). This includes breakfast & dinner.

Hotel Granbaita Dolomites

Nestled in the quaint ski town of Selva Val Gardena, Hotel Granbaita Dolomites is the perfect hub for those seeking an alpine adventure. Owned and loved by the Puntscher-Perathoner family for more than 60 years, this historic establishment marries tradition with contemporary luxury, offering a stay that feels like a step back in time without compromising on modern comforts.

The architecture of Hotel Granbaita Dolomites is a tribute to classic Alpine design, with wooden accents, cosy furnishings, and an atmosphere that exudes warmth. The rooms are curated with antique furniture, creating an ambiance that transports guests to a bygone era while providing all the conveniences of the present.

Hotel Granbaita Dolomites
Hotel Granbaita Dolomites

The extensive network of hiking trails in Selva Val Gardena and Dolomites Val Gardena proves so vast that even seasoned visitors haven't tread upon every path, perpetually revealing new routes. The hotel offers a range of expert guides (ask for Antonio if he's available!), but if hiking isn't your cup of tea, a leisurely stroll through the valley presents a serene escape, allowing one to savour the tranquility reminiscent of a bygone era lived amidst fields. In the winter, pick from a range of experiences like skiing, sledging and snowboarding, or conquer the ice-glazed mountains in a pair of snowshoes. With top-quality facilities and private hire of ski equipment, the snow-covered peaks offer a playground of adventure.

Dolomites hiking

Elevate your culinary experience at Hotel Granbaita Dolomite’'s gourmet restaurant. Here, the chefs craft dishes that are a symphony of flavours, showcasing the richness of local ingredients. Each meal is an exploration of Dolomite gastronomy, a journey that unfolds against the backdrop of the majestic peaks.

After a day of exploration, retreat to the Granbaita Wellness area—a sanctuary within a sanctuary. Unwind in the steam room, soak in the outdoor hot tub, or indulge in a spa treatment that blends modern techniques with ancient wisdom. The wellness retreat at Hotel Granbaita is a testament to the hotel's commitment to providing a holistic and rejuvenating experience.

Hay treatment at spa


Whether you choose the contemporary escape of FORESTIS or an action-packed adventure with Hotel Granbaita Dolomites, your stay becomes an integral part of your Dolomite adventure. These properties are not merely places to rest your head; they are immersive experiences that enhance your journey through this enchanting Alpine wonderland.

FORESTIS Dolomites

Address: Palmschoß 22, 39042 Bressanone BZ, Italy

Phone: +39 0472 521008

Website: https://www.forestis.it/en

Hotel Granbaita Dolomites

Address: S.da Nives, 11, 39048 Selva di Val Gardena BZ, Italy

Phone: +39 0471 795210

Website: https://www.hotelgranbaita.com/en/

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