The Dolomites: A Year-Round Oasis for Spa and Wellness Seekers

Here are a few fun things to do in the Dolomites while you're on your spa vacation:

• Take a hike through the Dolomites: The Dolomites offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. You can hike to alpine lakes, mountain meadows and even to the top of a mountain peak.
• Get on a bike: The Dolomites offer a variety of terrain to ride, from flat bike paths to challenging mountain trails. There's something for everyone regardless of your fitness level or experience. Three of the popular routes are Sellaronda, Marmolada and Tre Cime di Lavaredo!
• Visit a picturesque village: The Dolomites are home to many charming villages. Be sure to visit a few of these villages during your stay. You can wander the cobblestone streets, shop for souvenirs and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Bolzano is the biggest town with plenty of restaurants and shops.
• Take a dip in a crystal-clear lake (Spring/Summer): The Dolomites are home to many beautiful lakes. On a hot day, take a dip in one of the lakes to cool off and enjoy the stunning scenery. The enchanting Lago di Carezza, which offers undoubtedly one of the best views of the Dolomite peaks, and the stunning Lago di Braies are our favorites!
• Go Skiing (Winter/Early Spring): The Dolomites are a magical place, where the mountains seem to come alive in the winter. The snow-covered peaks sparkle like diamonds in the sunlight, and the valleys are transformed into frozen fairylands. As you carve your way down the slopes, you'll feel like you're flying through the air. And as you pause to catch your breath, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you're a beginner or an expert skier, you're sure to find the perfect slopes for you in the Dolomites. We love, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Val Gardena.
• Go Ice Skating (Late Fall/Winter): Glide across the ice like a graceful swan, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the crisp winter air and stunning mountain views as you skate on one of the many frozen lakes or rinks in this region. We love the romantic Lago di Costalovara or the family-friendly Laghetto di Fiè, as well as the Ritten Arena for the thrill seekers who wish to practice speedskating on one of the fastest arenas in the world.
• Visit a spa: Of course, no spa vacation is complete without visiting a spa. The Dolomites offer a wide range of wellness facilities, from luxurious resorts to smaller, more intimate spas. One of the newest and most expansive resorts in the region belongs to Lefay Spa Dolomites. Adler Lodge Alpe has a luxurious heated infinity pool overlooking the snowcapped peaks. A day pass includes a treatment and a meal which can be enjoyed in the vicinity of one of their toasty outdoor fireplaces.
• Visit a Museum: The Dolomites offer a variety of museums that showcase the region's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Some of the most popular museums include the Messner Mountain Museum (designed by Zaha Hadid, for architecture enthusiasts), the absolute one of a kind Lumen (next to MMM), the Museum of the Great War, the Ladin Museum as well as Prösels Castle Schloss.
• Practice Rock Climbing: The new rock climbing centers in the Dolomites feature state-of-the-art facilities, including top-rope and lead climbing walls, bouldering areas and training gyms. A couple of our favorites are the ultra modern Salewa Cube, the Centro d’arrampicata Brunico and the Vertikale Kletterzentrum Brixen.

Day trips

Depending on how you plan to get to the region, we recommend making a stop either on the way there or before your final departure in Verona or Lake Garda. Verona, Juliette’s hometown, is a beautiful sunny city (even in winter) with all the best boutiques, several upscale restaurants and charming bars contributing to a lively nightlife. Lake Garda offers picturesque lakeshore drives and villages as well as another elegant Lefay Resort. In the summer, boat trips and swimming are also options!

Most wellness & spa resorts will offer excellent dining options in the region and most will be on a half-board basis for the days you wish to venture out for a change of palette and scenery. Here are some of our suggestions:

• Ansitz Steinbock: Savor traditional Tyrolean cuisine in a cozy, romantic setting (in a castle) with stunning mountain views. Our top choice in the region!
• Oberholz: Experience fine dining at its best, with creative dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and paired with exquisite wines.
• Piz Boe Alpine Lounge: Enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner with panoramic views of the Dolomites from this mountaintop restaurant.
• Lumen: Indulge in innovative cuisine made with seasonal ingredients in a modern and stylish setting. Experience a unique culinary journey at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
• SanBrite: Experience the warmth of Italian hospitality and the flavors of regional Trentino cuisine in this charming restaurant.
• Torgglhaus in Bolzano: Sample traditional South Tyrolean dishes and wines in a rustic setting with a friendly atmosphere.
• The Restaurant at Pippos Mountain Lodge: Enjoy a modern take on traditional Tyrolean cuisine in a stylish and welcoming setting.
• The Bistro at The Gloriette: Savor delicious French-inspired cuisine with a modern twist in a cozy and elegant setting.