FORESTIS Dolomites

Forestis is honestly an incredible hotel. Every single detail and every inch of the property feels thoughtfully designed. The architecture, materials, Alpine atmosphere, views, food, spa everything feels incredibly intentional and extremely high end. The grounds are so peaceful and relaxing, and the spa experience was amazing. We did meditation and one of their sauna rituals, which was absolutely beautiful. The staff throughout our stay were wonderful, and from the moment we checked in until we checked out, I genuinely cannot think of anything they could have done better. If I had to find one “negative,” it would actually have nothing to do with the hotel. It almost felt too upscale for us at times, like maybe we had accidentally entered a tax bracket we don’t belong in :) The dining is also very fine dining, and personally there were moments when I just wished I could order something simple and basic. But again, that’s completely personal preference and not a criticism of the hotel. This hotel is on the pricier side but you can see where the money goes. The level of detail, service, design and overall experience is exceptional. It’s stunning, peaceful and truly special. I genuinely cannot find a fault with the hotel itself — everything from check-in to check-out was perfect.

Our hopes and expectations were high, makes sense given the €1,600 per night. To say we were disappointed is a huge understatement. We were shown to our “suite” which was basically two tiny rooms with a separate bathroom. Don’t go with your hopes high as the overall design is ikea meets upscale hospital and sauna. No art, and no real furniture that you can actually sit on. Did I mention no art?! Bare as bare can be. Also, don’t go in the summer as the rooms in the “historical” part of the building weren’t upgraded to have air conditioning. (They were very quick to point out that in small words in the room description it says no AC). Fair. We must have somehow missed that. But this doesn’t change the fact that this place is just not worth the visit. Their recommended solution to the hot room? Fans and the window open at night. Great solution until you consider bugs (no bug screens), noise from neighbouring rooms and oh, sunrise at 6am! (Windows open in not out, blocking the drapes from closing, which would also prevent airflow defeating the entire purpose) Best to just not go at all and spend less to stay somewhere nicer. We were supposed to be there for three nights. Barely made it through the first. Would have left after we saw the room if not for the roads being dangerous to traverse at night. But if you do decide to go, a regrettable, awful decision, be aware that you can hear people walking around on the floor above you, unless you are in the top floor (obviously). There are no carpets, I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing since the floors were dirty. And don’t expect a nice floor mat following turndown service to ensure your feet are clean before getting into bed. In summary, just don’t. Don’t believe the hype. It’s awful. Have a look at the pics and you tell me if this is a €1,600 per night room.

This is a spectacular hotel. All of the rooms and communal areas offer jaw dropping views of the Dolomites. Our room was beautiful - wood finished throughout with separate bath and shower, large outdoor terrace with double mattress, very comfortable bed and well sized storage area. It also had a large TV, included minibar (soft drinks and snacks), coffee machine and kettle. There is a large spa, indoor/outdoor swimming pool (joined together by automatic door), four restaurants, wine cellar, gym and more. We paid for the dinner included package and were treated to several courses of culinary excellence every evening. Breakfast was also fantastic. The staff were superb throughout. We paid for transfers to and from Brixen train station, which were convenient. A magnificent experience from start to finish.

Truly magic in the Dolomites with the most amazing views and food. This was our third visit and we can’t wait to visit again.

The showstopper at Forestis is the breathtaking view of the Dolomites, and the hotel, from the suites, to the spa, to the stadium seating in the restaurant, has been impeccably designed to highlight that mezmorizing view. The hotel was a haven of quiet and relaxation from the moment we entered. The service was friendly and attentive, but unobtrusive. Our Tower Suite was comfortable and well-appointed, with multiple comfortable areas (the bed, an outdoor daybed on the balcony, a desk, a cozy reading nook) from which to enjoy the spectacular view. The indoor/outdoor pool and spa areas were beautiful and relaxing - we particularly enjoyed the sauna ritual and massages. The breakfast buffet was one of the nicest I have every seen and the 2 six course dinners that we had there were the most delicious of our time in the Dolomites, even better than the Michelin starred restaurant that we had been to at our previous stop. The main destination for us was the hotel itself, but we also enjoyed a nice hike that was easily accessible directly from the hotel.