Nestled 5,905 feet above sea level, a stunning five-star hotel awaits near the charming town of Brixen, Italy. This exquisite property, originally conceived as a sanatorium by the Austrian monarchy in 1912, sought to harness the healing powers of the region's fresh spring water, pure mountain air, and breathtaking nature. However, the onset of war interrupted its construction, leaving the beautiful structure abandoned for decades.

In a stroke of serendipity, hotelier Alois Hinteregger stumbled upon this forgotten gem in 2000. With a passionate vision, he and his family transformed it into a luxurious hotel, officially opening its doors in 2010. A decade later, Alois's son, Stefan, and partner Teresa Unterthiner revitalized the property, elevating it to the high-end retreat known today as Forestis.

Upon our arrival under the cover of night, the winding roads of Plose Mountain created an anticipatory excitement as the town’s lights dwindled behind us. Even in the shadows, it was impossible to ignore Forestis’s grandeur—three elegant towers reach skyward, housing 40 luxurious suites and two opulent penthouses, all connected to a historic building bustling with amenities such as a gourmet restaurant, chic bar, and a lavish spa.

Notably, one completed structure from the original plans has been repurposed into a private villa that accommodates 10 guests, boasting a serene garden and its own spa facilities. If you're considering a stay, keep in mind that nightly rates start from $865 and cover breakfast for two—a small price to pay for an unparalleled experience.

As I entered my tower suite, it became clear that nature was a crucial design element. The interior was bathed in warm spruce wood, complemented by a wall of expansive glass windows providing uninterrupted views of the majestic Dolomites. The king-sized bed was strategically positioned to face the scenery, while an inviting L-shaped seating area and a spacious balcony with a daybed created the perfect lounging spot.

My suite featured a seamless blend of modern luxury and natural elements, from the stone-inspired bathroom complete with a double vanity to gourmet treats—chocolates and truffles—delivered nightly. The minimalist design directed all attention outward, offering a constant reminder of the stunning mountains surrounding us.

Despite the temptation to remain cocooned in comfort, my friend and I ventured downstairs to explore the remarkable spa. Spanning 21,500 square feet, the centerpiece was arguably the most awe-inspiring pool I had ever encountered, boasting a stunning view of the Dolomites. One half of the pool is indoors, while the other takes full advantage of the great outdoors, allowing guests to swim seamlessly between the two through sliding glass doors.

The spa area also included numerous lounges, daybeds, a refreshing water station with snacks, a sauna, and a steam room—each more inviting than the last. Beyond that, there was a range of specialized wellness offerings such as massages, facials, and scrubs, all designed to rejuvenate the spirit. Guests can partake in a full array of activities, from meditation and guided hikes to unique sauna rituals rooted in Celtic traditions.

One memorable experience was the sauna ritual led by Saro, a skilled member of the spa team. Inside the steamy environment, soothing music and fragrant essential oils created an atmosphere ripe for relaxation and mindfulness. The ritual culminated in an exhilarating cold plunge, leaving us invigorated and eager for more.

A trip to Forestis wouldn’t be complete without an exploration of its dining options. Guests can indulge in a culinary journey at the on-site restaurant, which offers three exquisite menus each evening—the seven-course Forestis menu, a detox-centered option, and a tempting à la carte menu. Comprised of locally sourced ingredients, the dishes reflected the essence of the region, notably featuring South Tyrolean apples, vegan mushroom ravioli, and decadent desserts.

For a deeper connection to the culinary magic, my friend and I spent an afternoon with the pastry chef, Irene, learning the art of crafting delicacies infused with local flavors. That evening, we reveled in a breakfast buffet that defied description, brimming with fresh pastries, artisanal breads, cured meats, and an impressive selection of cheeses and juices. With the most sumptuous breakfast options available, it was yet another reason to consider never leaving this enchanting lodge.