Forestis Dolomites

Character and identity

Perched on the south-facing Plose slope above Brixen, this 28-suite retreat fuses a century-old sanatorium building with three pinewood towers that rise from the forest like tree stumps, all framing the snaggle-toothed Dolomite peaks. Every material, from beeswax-coated Dolomite stone to oatmeal fabrics, comes from South Tyrol. The vast glass-and-stone spa runs on Celtic-inspired rituals with tree-circle ceremonies and every variety of sauna (nude only). Dinner unfolds in a low-lit amphitheatre of curved booths facing the mountains, the cocktail bar claims to be the world's highest rooftop, and service is efficient, warm and quietly attuned.

Who's it for

Bottom line

What sets this place apart is the totality of its South Tyrolean rootedness: every stone, fabric, sapling and pine shoot ties back to the surrounding forest, and the spa and kitchen carry that conviction without preaching. Book one of the new tower suites for floor-to-ceiling Dolomite views, or stretch to the two-floor penthouse with private pool and open fire. Shoulder seasons reward best.