Hotel Weihrerhof

As unique as the Alps are, there’s something particularly special about the Dolomites, the Alpine range that extends into the Italian region of South Tyrol. It’s here, on the Ritten ridge, not far from Bolzano, that you’ll find Hotel Weihrerhof, a hotel that takes both the Alpine enthusiasm for wellness and the Italian appreciation for the good life to their logical extremes, in a perfectly peaceful retreat on the shores of an idyllic mountain lake.

The Weihrerhof is small, just 23 rooms, which contributes to the intimate atmosphere and the sense of calm. And of course the SeaSpa doesn’t hurt — though this is the Italian side of the border it’s reminiscent of the intensive, hyper-indulgent spa culture of the German-speaking world. Meanwhile the cuisine is pure South Tyrol: it’s painstakingly local, with herbs grown in the hotel’s own garden, and a flexible approach can cater to any dietary need.

And of course the accommodations themselves complete the package. The look is contemporary, though not without nods to Alpine tradition — knotty pine wood and crimson fabrics abound. And while the emphasis is on relaxation rather than adrenaline, activities encompass the full range of what’s possible in the mountains, from hiking trails to mountaineering and more.