San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges

With a luxurious yet rustic feel and a stunning Alpine location, the San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges makes for a sumptuous – albeit pricey -- mountain getaway. The main lodge building and a collection of wooden chalets are set around a pristine and small lake, with more chalets and lofted treehouses dotted across the sprawling grounds.

Interiors are a mix of cozy, rustic charm and uncluttered sophistication. Think: lots of wood, atmospheric lighting, sloped ceilings, and large windows that fill the spaces with light and provide stunning nature views. Plush sofas in the lobby invite lingering and plenty of candles set a warm mood, as do all of the fireplaces that are peppered throughout the property. There’s a palpable sense of calm here, attracting travelers seeking a tranquil retreat. Clientele is a mix of couples and families, mainly German and Italian, and it’s a popular place for special events like anniversaries.

The San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges sits around a mirror-like lake on sprawling 100-acre grounds just outside of Avelengo, a village in Italy’s South Tyrol region. Stunning scenery surrounds the property and there’s plenty of hiking in the area, as well as winter sports – skiing in Meran 2000 is just a 10-minute drive away. It’s about a 20-minute drive to Merano, the nearest notable city, while Bolzano and its airport can be reached in around 45 minutes by car. A shuttle service is available from the Merano and Bolzano train stations for an extra fee.

The San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges offers beautiful wooden chalets and lofted treehouses situated either along the lake or in the woods. They range from studios to two-story chalets and treehouses to spacious three-bedroom chalets that can sleep up to six people. All have private terraces with seating -- those situated around the lakeshore have direct access to the water, plus most have hot tubs.

Interiors are what you would expect from the property – luxurious yet cozy, rustic but chic. Wood dominates, paired with creamy textiles and pretty botanic prints dotting the walls. Inviting living areas have fireplaces and plush sofas. The spaces are filled with natural light thanks to lots of large paned windows and doors that open onto the private terraces. All units have dining areas and kitchenettes equipped with espresso machines, electric stovetops, electric kettles, and cookware, plus snacks and wine. Other standard amenities include flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Beautiful bathrooms feature soaking tubs (many situated by windows with beautiful views) and walk-in rainfall showers. Luxe toiletries are provided. Most units also have private saunas.

Situated in the hotel’s main building, the restaurant is a lovely, light, and airy space, with fresh flowers topping each table and gorgeous views over the natural scenery outside. All food is included in rates here (breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as afternoon coffee, tea, and cake) and there’s plenty to choose from, plus the property caters to any intolerances. There’s an emphasis on quality local ingredients, and meals include both beautiful buffet spreads as well as a la carte items. Homemade breakfast is served directly in the chalets/treehouses, while lunch and dinner are offered in the restaurant. The adjoining bar is equally inviting, thanks to a handsome wooden horseshoe bar and walls of shelves stocked with wine, plus there’s an outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. Note that beverages are not included.

The San Luis Retreat Hotel & Lodges has a solid line-up of luxurious features, with an emphasis on wellness. There are many swimming opportunities, from the beautiful lake that the main building and some of the chalets sit around, to the outdoor infinity pool that seems to melt into the lake. Both are bordered by wooden decks lined with swish loungers and there’s a hot tub built into the deck. There’s a gorgeous indoor pool too in a space framed by walls of windows that overlook the lake outside. A giant fireplace and plush loungers add to the indulgent feel of the space.

The spa is another kind of oasis, providing tranquil treatment rooms that overlook the lake, as well as relaxation areas, saunas, and steam baths. The sleek, modern gym is equipped with top-of-the-line cardio machines, plus fitness training is available.

Other features include a boutique shop in the lobby that’s stocked with homeware and knick-knacks injected with the hotel’s luxe-rustic charm, like candles and cozy slippers. Wi-Fi is free throughout.