Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge – Where Serenity Meets Alpine Elegance in South Tyrol

The Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge in South Tyrol, is definitely the place to be if you love an uncomplicated and warm Tyrolean hospitality, where the kids are welcome, and a splash is ok.

Tucked away in the quiet Valle di Casies (Gsieser Valley) in St. Martin, South Tyrol, we have discovered this gem of a hotel.

Away from the more buzzing Val Gardena – UNESCO World Natural Heritage Dolomites area, yet within easy access to the mountains and activities if you wish.

These aspects combine to make the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge in South Tyrol a special destination for those seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural immersion, and a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Alps.

In this blog post we tell you about our experience at the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge and give you some tips on what to do whilst enjoying this stunning luxury hotel in South Tyrol.

For a more virtual feel of the Fontis Lodge and the Dolomites check out our Instagram highlights 

The Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge in South Tyrol – Val Casies

When planning a trip to South Tyrol and the Dolomites, the choice of hotels is endless. Whether you are seeking a luxury wellness hotel or simply a bed & breakfast for your Dolomites itinerary.

The South Tyrol is well known for its amazing wellness retreats and we got lucky with our find.

Tucked away in the quiet yet rejuvenating Valle di Casies (Gsieser Valley) we discovered the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge.

Its location is great. Only 30 minutes by car from the famous Lago di Braies, and other attractions in the northern part of the Dolomites. Therefore, the perfect place to stop for our last two days whilst road tripping through the Dolomites.

We were excited for our stay at Fontis and to have two relaxing days to discover further the Valle di Casies (Gsieser Valley) in South Tyrol.

Expectations exceeded at Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge

A haven of tranquility and indulgence, promising a truly opulent retreat for the mind, body, and soul.

Located in the heart of a serene natural landscape, this reward winning Boutique Hotel offers something special that we have not experienced before.

From the moment we stepped inside the atmosphere we experienced was of pure luxury, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create a sense of harmony and bliss. Yet it doesn’t feel stiff and posh.

We were greeted with a genuine warmhearted smile from the owner, Julia, and the hotel radiates an atmosphere of tranquility and elegance.

A quick and easy check-in procedure and straight to the delicious afternoon tea buffet.

You can feel and see that a love and passion for hospitality rule this place.

Our Room – The Loft Suite

The hotel has eight suites in total. Although we have not seen all the suites, we have heard from other guests that they were as equally as spacious as ours.

We stayed in the loft suite that easily accommodated a family of four. The décor was stylish with quality furniture and fabrics.

The lounge area had a sofa bed which became the kids sleeping section. This was without a doubt the most comfortable sofa bed ever.

Furthermore you will find a fully equipped kitchen and even a washing machine.

Not that we used it but maybe if you are staying for one week at Fontis, you may want to cook your own meal one evening.

And it is good to know, that you can go to the garden and pick some herbs if needed.

Our large balcony afforded a view up to the Heckerle Cross (we e-biked up there) and along the valley.

The cuisine at Fontis

Indulge your taste buds with exquisite cuisine tailored to nourish both body and soul.

Book your stay at the Fontis and include the evening meal, you won’t regret it.  A delectable menu of healthy, locally sourced dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Savour every bite whilst knowing that most of what is on your plate comes straight out of the hotel’s eco-farm garden.

You will have the choice of three different starters, mains and two desserts. There is even a vegetarian option available.

At breakfast

In the morning you can indulge in the breakfast buffet until 10.30 am, so no need to set your alarm. You probably guessed it, there is not a single item I could have thought of that was missing from the buffet. Yet it was not overwhelmingly large. Simply the perfect way to start another day in the Dolomites in South Tyrol.

Afternoon delight

Not that anybody really needs it, but the food therapy continues in the afternoon.

From 14:00 to 16:30 afternoon tea (which is more like a light snack buffet) is offered. Salad, bread, cheese, meats, soup, amazing cakes and apple strudel, or simply enjoy a plate of fresh fruit.

The Fontis Eco Farm & Sustainability

 The Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge has one word, “Green”! The overall ecological concept of Fontis Lodge is to consistently combine a green SPA with sustainable construction and eco-farming.

A geothermal system provides 100 percent green energy for the residential units, sauna and pools.

 The adjacent Fontis eco-farm garden is a vibrant oasis of organic delights. A diverse range of fresh produce using eco-friendly and regenerative farming practices, makes this place even more special.

Chickens, honey bees and two bulls belong to the farm.

Wherever possible the talented chefs at Fontis will handpick the finest ingredients from the eco-farm garden, ensuring every dish is a celebration of local flavours and sustainability.

We visited during the month of May and due to the cold weather Europe was facing the garden was still struggling to emerge from its winter hibernation.

But seeing what will eventually grow showed us how deeply committed the Fontis team are to environmental sustainability.

Reward

The hard work and effort the team puts in every day to the responsible use and preservation of the environment has paid off.

In 2023 the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge won the proud title in the category of best Sustainable Hotel – 20th Wellness Aphrodite.

Another great reason why you should book a stay at the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge.

Fontis Wellness Spa area & Pool

The spa boasts a range of different wellbeing areas which radiate a serene ambiance complemented by state-of-the-art facilities. These include a heated outdoor pool (30 °C), adjacent to a man-made alpine lake (12°C). And not to forget the sauna with panoramic windows.

We loved that these amenities were all together. This allowed me to have en eye on the kids whilst enjoying the sauna.

On the upper deck of the spa area, you can soak up the bubbles in one of the two Jacuzzis (38°C) whilst admiring the breathtaking views the Dolomites are so known for.

The facilities carry on underground,  with a quiet space featuring infra-red back treatment chairs.  All in a very beautiful environment where stress will melt away.

Fontis is a place where we as parents can escape the pressures of everyday life and immerse in a world of pure bliss, whilst the kids can swim splash to their hearts content.

Which means after some time at the spa, everyone feels refreshed, revitalised, and ready to conquer the world, or at least the South Tyrol.

Fontis Sister Hotel – Hotel Quelle

Selected treatments and therapies tailored to meet your unique needs can be arranged in the sister hotel, Hotel Quelle which is only a few minutes away from the Fontis Lodge.

Unfortunately, during our visit Hotel Quelle was closed and we therefore could not use the wellness and spa area of this amazing 5 star luxury hotel.

If this is of interest, then check with the owner at Fontis Lodge if the facilities at Hotel Quelle are usable and whether there is an extra charge.

About Valle di Casies – Gsieser Tal (Valley)

Valle di Casies provides a peaceful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The lack of crowds and serene ambiance create an ideal environment for relaxation, introspection, and a connection with nature.

The Fontis Luxury Spa lodge lies within the peaceful and tranquil Valle di Casies, also known as the Gsieser Valley.

Situated in the northeastern part of Italy, Valle di Casies is nestled in the Dolomite Mountains. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty and scenic landscapes.

With its pristine natural beauty and peaceful ambiance, Valle di Casies is a hidden gem.

The valley is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with the nearest major towns being Monguelfo (Welsberg) and Dobbiaco (Toblach).

A range of outdoor activities await to be discovered. These include hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the idyllic villages scattered throughout the valley.

If you are visiting during the winter months, there is an extensive cross country ski network and even some smaller ski stations to explore.

Activities from the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge

As the hotel is beautifully located within the Valle di Casies (Gsieser Valley) you have a wide range of activities no matter the time of the year you will visit.

Unlike in the middle of the Dolomites region around Val Gardena where hiking trails become quickly steep and mountain bike routes demand power in your legs, this valley also offers less demanding options.

A trip along the valley floor whether it is on your bike or on foot allows the whole family to participate and explore the stunning alpine landscapes, serene forests, and picturesque meadows whilst enjoying breathtaking views.

Good to know: You can rent great e-bikes directly from the Fontis Lodge for 25 Euro.

Cycling and E-Mountain Biking

The valley offers fantastic cycling routes and mountain biking trails. Explore the valley and surrounding area on two wheels, taking in the stunning scenery and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

We went up to the Heckerle point which is a steepish 900m ascent, so definitely an e-bike route in our opinion. Plus, we were pulling the kids along.

Wherever you are at the Fontis Lodge you can see the Heckerle cross high up on the mountain which made it even more appealing to us to get up there.

The trail leads through the forest all the way to an alpine farm. From there we locked the bikes and hiked the last 20-30 minutes to the cross.

On a clear day the ragged Dolomite peaks can be seen stretching far into the horizon. We had a bit of cloud, but nevertheless it was a stunning vista.

Family friendly bike routes

As mentioned before the Gsieser valley is long and flat, and therefore offers some great easy family bike routes, especially for families with smaller children.

We’ve loved to bring our bikes on holiday since the kids were little. It is so practical, allowing us to cover a lot more ground in a shorter time, and discover more.

There are several flat bike routes within Valle di Casies (Gsieser Valley), perfectly suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels.

For example, the Gsieser Talradweg (Gsies Valley Cycle Path). This scenic and easy cycling route follows the Gsieser Bach (Gsieser Stream) through the valley.

Animal Park Reiherhof

Definitely a must when you visit with kids is to check out the Reiherhof, only one minute by car from the hotel.

Or even better combine it with a family walk or bike ride from the Fontis Lodge to the farm.

Say hello to pigs, horses, cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, birds, llamas, cats and hares of all breeds.  Even domesticated animals from other continents live here.

A visit through the farm will explain the everyday life. Make sure you visit the entire farm to get the whole feel of this place.

Skiing, Snowboarding & Cross Country Ski tracks – South Tyrol

When the snow is falling in South Tyrol, the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge and Valle di Casies transforms into a winter wonderland.

The valley has extensive cross-country skiing trails and endless winter walking trails.

If you like to stay local there are two small ski areas. Whereas the larger ski resorts are less than one hour away by car.

These are just a few examples of the activities available in South Tyrol – Valle di Casies whilst staying at Fontis Lodge.

Day trips from Fontis Lodge

 Conveniently located in South Tyrol on the doorstep of the central Dolomites, the region offers easy access to all the must do’s and see’s when visiting.

Visit the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo

A stunning mountain range known for its distinctive three peaks.

Enjoy hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding Dolomite landscape.

Getting there: To reach the Refugio Auronzo count a driving time of just over 1 hour / 50km away.

Note: The road up to the Refugio is a toll road and there is a barrier from where you need to buy your day pass. Normally as of the end of May the road is open but check with the South Tyrol tourism board for up to date information.

Walk around Lago di Braies – Pragser Wildsee

Explore the picturesque Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee), known for its emerald-green waters and the beautiful Pragser Valley. Take a boat ride on the lake, hike around its shores, or simply admire the enchanting scenery.

The facilities around the lake like boat rental normally open on the last weekend in May. There is also a hotel on the shore of Lago di Braies. If you have been to Canada and visited Lake Louise, this place will be seem familiar.

Getting there: Only a short 30 minutes drive (25km) from Fontis Lodge

Note: Lago di Braies is famous with all the influencers and photographers. Everyone wants the shot with the boat house and the boats floating on the lake. Our tip is to walk around the lake. You can capture amazing shots from every corner.

As this is a popular place, make sure you visit early or late in the day especially during peak season.

Visit Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol

Venture to the charming city of Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol. Discover its rich history, stroll through the vibrant city centre, and visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman.

Getting there: The drive is 1h 30 minutes (103km), maybe a good idea to visit if it is on your way to Fontis Lodge, for example.

Visit the Brixen Cathedral

The town of Brixen (Bressanone) is known for its medieval charm and the impressive Brixen Cathedral. Explore the historic centre, wander through narrow streets, and enjoy the vibrant local culture.

Combine it with a trip to South Tyrol’s capital, Bolzano.

Getting there: The drive is just over one hour (65km)

Conclusion – Our Stay at the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge in South Tyrol.

As I mentioned before, we felt very comfortable during our stay which is not always the case if you book a luxury Spa hotel with children.

The fact that Fontis is small with only 8 suites made it even more special for us and one of our best luxury hotel stays.

Let’s talk about attention to detail. The passion the owners have for the hotel is clearly visible at every corner, and not to forget the hotel’s commitment to sustainability. These reasons alone are why you should book a stay at the Fontis Luxury Spa Hotel and visit South Tyrol.

Your Italy Travel Guide

Check out these other travel suggestions while in Italy.

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• FLORENCE :: Best way to visit Florence in a day with kids
• PISA :: Visit Pisa “Piazza dei Miracoli” in half a day with kids
• 9 Days Liguria & Tuscany Road trip
• Cinque Terre with Kids :: How Best to visit in One Day – Stress Free
• 26 Amazing Photos through Otranto’s Old Town
• Lecce – 11 Amazing family friendly activities not to be missed

I hope that the information provided here will prove itself useful when booking a stay at the Fontis Luxury Spa Lodge in South Tyrol.

If I have left anything out, please ask your questions in the comments below and share your experience. So that other readers can join in the conversation and benefit from your queries and stories as well.

Note: This trip was in cooperation with Fontis Lodge, thank you again! However you can always be assured that the recommendations are our honest tips and reviews as always.

Thank you & Never Forget to Explore

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