Forestis Dolomites, Bressanone

Text and Photography by Mart Engelen  

Lying high above the town of Bressanone (Brixen) in South Tyrol, the Forestis Dolomites appears suspended in nature; its architecture blending perfectly into the forested hillside, with a façade that frames the jagged silhouette of the Dolomites. When we arrived in our Tower Suite in the late afternoon, we were just in time to witness a magnificent sunset that turned the impressive peaks rose-gold. The Tower Suites are masterpieces: their covered terraces opening onto the mountains and their interiors defined by calming space and light. And the subtle, sensitive architecture by Brixen-based architect Armin Sader reinterprets mountain architecture with a natural geometry. The original stone building – once a historic sanatorium built by the Austrian royal family just before World War I – now connects seamlessly to three slender ­ timber towers that rise from the slope, their vertical lines inspired by the surrounding trees. With its breathtaking setting, impeccable service and world-class spa, the Forestis Dolomites has quickly become a hit among the more discreet luxury travellers. From the CO2-neutral construction to renewable ­ energy sourced on-site, sustainability underlies the project, but integration with nature defines its character. We were ­ astounded when we went for dinner in the Panorama restaurant, which is designed with ­ different levels so that you imagine you are sitting in a theatre. Guests sit in curve banquettes which feel like private cocoons, so it never seems busy even when the restaurant is full. It was refreshing to see young staff at the restaurant who worked with passion, professionalism and friendliness. The food was also excellent, innovative in the positive sense and, of course, with the local produce that this region is famous for. And the ­ impeccable breakfast was just as good. The switch-off starts im­mediately you check in at the Forestis Dolomites, thanks to the luxury of serenity. It is the benchmark for contemporary Alpine hospitality with its singular design, deep connection to place and a sense of time slowed to nature’s tempo. Simply unique and fantastic!