Kiwi Curated
Winter in the Dolomites
by Olivia BettsRising along Italy’s northern edge, the Dolomites captivate in every season—but in winter, they cast a spell all their own. With fewer crowds, the mountains feel untouched, their beauty leaving an unforgettable mark on all who venture here. Carve down powdery slopes, trek to refugios hidden in snow-cloaked forests, unwind in panoramic saunas or toast to the view with a hot bombardino—this is the magic of winter in the Dolomites.
Long stewarded by the Pizzinini family, Aman Rosa Alpina carries forward a legacy of Alpine hospitality dating back to 1939, now reimagined with Aman’s quiet refinement. Set in storybook San Cassiano, it opens directly onto Dolomiti Superski and adventures beyond—from heli-skiing over remote peaks to ice climbing, snowshoeing or private dining in rustic rifugios, with Ski Butlers on hand to anticipate every need. At dusk, winter unveils the Dolomites’ most bewitching secret: enrosadira, the alpenglow that bathes the pale peaks in fleeting hues of pink, coral and gold. Back at the hotel, guests can retreat to the Ski Lounge or soak in the 65-foot outdoor infinity pool, gazing out at the same peaks now draped in twilight. Rooted in Alta Badia traditions, the hotel draws on generations of local expertise, from farmers, mountain guides, ski instructors and wellness practitioners, to weave authenticity into every moment.
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There’s little reason to ever leave the mountaintop at FORESTIS, a minimalist hideaway perched 1,800 meters above sea level with direct ski-in/ski-out access to the Plose ski region. Nature flows through every detail: warm woods lining walls and floors, a Celtic-inspired spa with restorative saunas and an indoor-outdoor pool that gazes toward mesmerizing peaks. In winter, the region becomes a snow-draped sanctuary, where silence blankets the forest and time itself seems to slow. Guests can slip on snowshoes for frozen river walks, carve slalom runs on the slopes or simply surrender to the alpine stillness. Here, the snowy season is an invitation to pause, breathe and return renewed. Culinary artistry completes the experience at Yera, the hotel’s new forest-hidden restaurant, where South Tyrolean traditions are reimagined into seasonal menus that showcase the alpine landscape on every plate.
VIEW HOTELThe article’s cover shot features FORESTIS.
With direct access to Kronplatz ski resort, Hotel Petrus is a true family affair, lovingly run by three sisters—Christina, Brigitte and Daniela—together with their parents, Gerti and Hans. Their spirit infuses every corner, from the self-designed interiors to the warmth of their welcome, creating an alpine retreat that feels instantly like home. Rooms and suites feature panoramic windows and private balconies framing the Alps, with some accommodations offering in-room infrared saunas and outdoor Jacuzzis. Unlike many hotels in the region, families, couples, groups of friends and solo travelers alike are embraced here, and winter days are made effortless thanks to a private ski shuttle, on-site rentals and overnight equipment service. Culinary excellence lies at the heart of the Petrus experience. Evenings at the Petrus.Restaurant offer a choice between à la carte specialties and a carefully curated full menu, while the intimate Kaminstube presents a 7-course tasting menu distinguished by Gault Millau. In the afternoon, the South Tyrolean tradition of Marende—a hearty spread of local delicacies—adds a delicious pause between mountain adventures.
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From rustic timber chalets to sleek eco-retreats, the Dolomites are home to lodges of every kind—but none quite like Gardena Grödnerhof Hotel & Spa. Built in 1923, this turreted landmark blends the nostalgic charm of a classic lodge with the polish of a world-class resort. Just 200 meters from lifts that connect directly to the Dolomiti Superski—a 745-mile circuit with 450 lifts designed to tour the region without ever retracing your steps—skiers have the mountains at their doorstep. Private sunset ski tours add a romantic twist, best followed by a tasting in the hotel’s vaulted wine cellar. If the crisp alpine air doesn’t revive you, the state-of-the-art Gardena Spa will, before evenings conclude with refined indulgence at the Michelin-starred Anna Stuben. Come December, Ortisei transforms into a fairytale village of twinkling lights, mulled wine and the lively hum of Christmas markets.
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Tucked in the heart of Trentino, SOLEA DOLOMITI is an alpine haven where guests can enjoy a rich year-round program of yoga sessions, guided excursions, music evenings and lively themed events. In winter, the Paganella Ski Area comes alive with 31 miles of terrain, 15 ski lifts, four ski schools, five children’s play parks and 14 mountain huts. After a day in the fresh mountain air, the season’s chill becomes an invitation to feast on hearty alpine fare, with Head Chef Michele Perlot elevating Trentino’s renowned local flavors into a four-course journey that blends regional traditions with international flair. Each evening, Solea curates a selection of four wines from nearby vineyards, with sommeliers guiding guests through Trentino’s rich viticultural landscape. The bar adds its own creative touch with cocktails that each tell a story—balancing spice and citrus to warm even the coldest winter nights.
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Wellness reaches new heights at Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, a secluded retreat cradled by Trentino’s forested peaks. Winter unlocks some of the world’s finest ski slopes and snowboard parks, with Lefay making alpine adventures effortless through its in-house ski shop, ski concierge and complimentary transfers to the Pinzolo gondola. Yet it’s just as tempting to surrender to relaxation—the 50,000-square-foot Lefay Spa, one of the largest in the Alps, beckons with four floors of East-meets-West indulgence. Body and soul are pampered in equal measure, with three pools (including an Instagram-worthy heated indoor/outdoor pool), 20 treatment rooms, extensive hydrotherapy circuits, saunas, an adults-only thermal area and a 24-hour gym with Equinox-level facilities. A weekly complimentary wellness schedule makes it easy to dip your ice-cold toes into every variety of ritual available.
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