I REACH down to scoop up a handful of freshly formed ice, rubbing my hands together to lower my heart rate before raising them to the sun. I stand beside the glassy, frozen-solid Lago Nambino, 1,780m above sea level, having hiked through pristine snow to reach this breathtaking spot.
Encircled by the beauty of the snow-capped Brenta Dolomites, a Unesco World Heritage site, and the Adamello-Presanella Alps, I take a deep breath of crisp alpine air. The dazzling winter sunlight reflects off the snow, casting a magical glow over the landscape. In this moment of perfect solitude, I feel utterly at peace.
I am here to experience the newly launched Yin-Yang Active and Balance three-day programme, created by the Lefay Spa Method Scientific Committee at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti, a spectacular retreat perched above the village of Pinzolo, Italy – a two-hour drive from Verona, the nearest international airport.
Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti exterior
In traditional Chinese medicine, yin and yang represent opposing yet connected forces – coolness and water versus warmth and fire. For the body to achieve optimal health, these elements must be in balance. Lefay’s wellness philosophy embraces this principle with treatments focused on harmonising these energies, with the Active and Balance programme thoughtfully curated to complement these elements.
My morning itinerary begins with a three-hour guided mountain hike through undulating, snow-draped terrain led by two expert local guides, Andrea Chesi and Mirko Ferrari. Afternoons are dedicated to indulgence and restoration within Lefay’s award-winning three-storey spa, featuring a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western wellness traditions. These include saunas, steam rooms, relaxation areas, and three stunning pools that feature a lap pool and a warm indoor/outdoor infinity pool offering uninterrupted alpine vistas.
My spa journey begins with the water element as I immerse myself in a deeply restorative salt bath, followed by a mud wrap and a detoxifying, exfoliating massage on a waterbed. My highly skilled and nurturing therapist, Katarina, effortlessly blends gentle preening with invigorating pressure, leaving me both refreshed and cocooned.
Family Suite
On my second day, the fire element takes precedence. After a morning hike, I indulge in a deeply rejuvenating muscle massage, followed by a sauna stretching session, a unique Lefay therapy. As fragrant essential oils infuse the steamy air, Enrico, the intuitive in-house personal trainer, guides me through mindful breathing and slow, deliberate stretches to release built-up tension. This experience, both meditative and reviving, will benefit my body long after my departure.
The resort is also a gastronomic destination. Its fine-dining restaurant, Grual, was recently awarded a Michelin star, celebrating its commitment to sustainability and exquisite flavours, with the menu crafted from locally sourced organic and sustainable ingredients.
Pool
Evenings at Dolomia, the resort’s main restaurant, are the ultimate celebration after Lefay’s rejuvenating daily schedules. The healthy dining option offers a selection that aligns specifically with the Active and Balance programme, but the allure of decadence on the main menu might prove irresistible. I surrender to the temptation of tortelli filled with locally produced Casolét cheese, saffron cream, caper powder and cocoa beans – a dish that lingers long after the last bite.
Lobby
Returning to my Lefay suite adds another facet of serenity to my stay. Each room is designed in soothing neutral tones, featuring glass and leather, with wooden accents and at a touch of a button, I ignite my stylish “log fire”, casting a warm glow. The marble bathroom, with its standalone bathtub and bespoke Lefay amenities, enhances the sense of indulgence. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a balcony, where panoramic mountain vistas form a dramatic backdrop to the village below.
As my time at Lefay draws to an end, I already feel the pull to return. And with any luck, I will – very soon.
by Amanda Bernstein
Prices start from €1,650 per person for the Active & Balance three-day programme with a stay in a Prestige Junior Suite (57 sqm), double occupancylefayresorts.com