As an avid traveler with a penchant for luxury, my recent escapade to the ADLER Spa Resort DOLOMITI resting within the forests of the breathtaking Dolomites of Northern Italy was nothing short of a sensory masterpiece. Nestled within the lush valley of Val Gardena, this five-star resort is a harmonious fusion of opulence, sustainability, and authentic Alpine charm.

Upon entering the resort, I found myself immersed in a centuries-old tradition dating back to 1810 when the property was a small tavern guest house. The architecture seamlessly integrated into the surrounding Dolomite Mountains, boasting wood-paneled walls, oak floors, and dark leather interiors that exuded a quintessential Tyrolean spirit. The panoramic windows framed mesmerizing views of Mount Sassolungo and the Sella, while spacious terraces and poolside areas beckoned for moments of blissful relaxation.

What sets ADLER Spa Resort DOLOMITI apart is its commitment to sustainability, seamlessly blending with the rich biodiversity of its surroundings, using local materials, including native spruce wood and Fleres stones. The private gardens, adorned with native birch, willow, and larch trees, reflect the resort’s promise of ecological sustainability. Situated in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Val Gardena, the resort is an ode to local heritage. Ortisei, the nearby Alpine village, with its pastel-colored houses and pedestrianized streets, offers a charming glimpse into the region’s rich history. The village’s traditional craftsmanship, including woodcarving dating back to the 17th century, adds a timeless allure.

Get the Balance Right

 

The Resort

ADLER Spa Resort DOLOMITI offers 108 guest rooms, each a blend of traditional Alpine aesthetics and modern comfort. The range of accommodations, from superior rooms to family suites, caters to diverse preferences. The best part about the hotel is the ease with which I reached the mountains with a simple shuttle ride, and then the follow-up experience when I returned to the hotel, met by a full spa, spanning 3,500 square meters. I was able to explore indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxation spaces flooded with natural light. I splashed into a warm saltwater lake that kickstarted my circulation and rejuvenated my body, as I breathed in the serenity of nature with unmatched views of the Dolomites.

The pool space is expertly designed with a crystal glass dome surrounded by roaring fires. There is a Turkish bath and even a special dark cavernous room with twinkling lights on the ceiling and a whirlpool at the bottom of the stairs. To complement the holistic health experiences is BALANCE, a building that includes medical treatments such as detox, weight loss and nutrition, stress management, prevention and diagnosis, and aesthetic medicine, including genetic testing.

Head Chef Martino Longo curates inspired meals that showcase Tyrolean and Mediterranean flavors. Lavish breakfasts, complimentary afternoon pastries, and themed gourmet buffets celebrate the region’s culinary diversity. The wine cellar, featuring local and international selections, complements the gastronomic experience. I enjoyed the mixed vegetables, barley soup, tagliatelle with ragu, ravioli with spinach and ricotta, and perfectly cooked deer. The inventive desserts included an apple made entirely of white chocolate filled with mousse and apple strudel. The bar area also offers cake snacks at 3:30 post-ski and a lively piano and guitar musician post-dinner.

My experience at ADLER Spa Resort DOLOMITI transcended the ordinary, offering a luxurious retreat intertwined with nature, sustainability, and authentic Alpine heritage. This hidden gem in the Dolomites is no longer just a well-kept secret but a destination worthy of global acclaim; seamlessly combining opulence while preserving its surrounding natural beauty – a best-kept haven for discerning travelers.

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Kat Fuschi is a journalist living in Italy who aims to empower people to travel, as she believes it is through exploring the world that we will bridge cultural gaps.

Photos | Kat Fuschi