At a unique hotel perched on stilts in the Dolomite mountains, David Hobden discovers a winter escape offering five star luxury by the slopes.
The Plose ski region is located a mere 7km from Bressanone/Brixen, and is renowned as one of the most sun-drenched ski destinations in South Tyrol.
It provides an ideal winter getaway for skiers, with the sun-kissed slopes offering breathtaking views of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.
My Arbor PHOTO: © Benno Prenn
Known for its diverse terrain, Plose caters to both beginners and advanced skiers with slopes ranging from gentle and wide for beginners to challenging and steep for those seeking a more exhilarating experience.
The slopes are well-groomed, providing smooth and enjoyable skiing experiences and equipped with modern lift systems – including cable cars and chairlifts – skiers are efficiently transported to different parts of the mountain, helping to minimise wait times.
Often praised for being family-friendly, Plose has a welcoming atmosphere for skiers of all ages, with areas specifically designed for children and beginners.
Nestled among the towering fir trees at the base of the Plose mountain with easy ski in/ski out access to the cable car is My Arbor, where my wife and I found ourselves welcomed to five star luxury.
Commanding breathtaking views of the Eisack Valley and the South Tyrolean town of Bressanone, the hotel is situated just 40km from the Austrian border. The region has a rich history influenced by Austria, Italy and Germany, but there is an unmistakable Bavarian ambiance, which is underscored by the fact that despite being in Italy, German is the native language.
My Arbor PHOTO: © Benno Prenn
At an elevation of 960m My Arbor is perched uniquely on stilts to help blend in to the mountainside, enveloped by lush forests and mountain tops which combine to create amazing backdrops – and one of the highlights of skiing at Plose is the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dolomite mountains.
The seamless integration with the natural surroundings makes My Arbor a destination that stands out, along with the attention to detail in the hotel’s design and the quality of service – from the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of serenity and luxury.
As you walk through the doors you cannot fail to be wowed by the immaculate sense of calmness and relaxation – in the entrance hall’s double-height area tree trunks hang down from the ceiling and the fireplace is welcoming.
The lounge bar features floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which are common throughout the hotel, helping to bring the outside in and enabling you to enjoy the fantastic views which surround the property.
The accommodation offerings at My Arbor span a spectrum of sizes and luxuries, from the intimate 38 square metre Nest to the expansive suites that boast private hot tubs and saunas. Despite the diversity in sizes, each room resonates with a cohesive treehouse vibe.
The resort offers après-ski activities, including cosy mountain huts where skiers can relax, enjoy local cuisine, and socialise after a day on the slopes.
My Arbor Nest Suite PHOTO: © Benno Prenn
During our stay, we opted for the Nest, the most modest of the room categories, and yet, it surprised with a sense of spaciousness. The room, designed with a minimalist Scandinavian aesthetic, exuded a serene charm with its neutral tones and wooden interiors.
Every room, regardless of category, boasts a balcony that extends the living space into the outdoors.
My Arbor’s culinary offerings present a harmonious fusion of nourishing and indulgent experiences. The day begins with a fresh and hearty breakfast. For those that feel the need, a good selection of lunches are available at the lounge bar, however during our stay, we never felt the need to indulge in more than a drink at lunch time, such was the breakfast.
Come evening, the hotel’s restaurant transforms into a vibrant culinary hub, featuring intimate private booths for each room, creating an inviting and exclusive atmosphere. The extensive à la carte menu offers a delightful array of options, allowing guests to choose between well-loved classics and a daily changing selection of specials. The menu’s unique characteristic lies in the concept of smaller portions, suggesting around five orders per person. This approach empowers guests to curate their own personalised tasting menu, fostering a sense of culinary exploration and adventure.
The diverse menu showcases a range of flavours, from Asian-inspired seafood dishes to comforting traditional Italian pasta plates, at times embracing experimental culinary creations.
With most rooms booked on a half-board basis, the restaurant becomes a lively and bustling hub in the evenings.
My Arbor Forest Sauna PHOTO: © Benno Prenn
However, at the heart of this haven of unhurried, luxurious living lies the spa facilities. Unlike many hotels where spas are a mere “add on”, at My Arbor it stands as the focal point, an expansive oasis spreading across two floors encompassing 2,500 square metres.
The first floor of the spa complex incorporates a captivating blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. A generously sized swimming pool includes an indoor pool leading to outdoor infinity pool, via the electronic sliding glass doors. The outdoor infinity pool enjoys spectacular views and a Jacuzzi bench from which you can simply lie back and relax in the warm, relaxing bubbles. On this floor you will also find the wellness studio featuring a well-equipped gym and a multifunctional space for classes, ranging from yoga to more esoteric sessions such as gong baths and chakra rebalancing.
However, the true essence of the spa experience unfolds a level below – and be prepared to shed your swimwear at the entrance. Following the European tradition of nude spas, though a towel can provide a modest shield for the more reserved, this subterranean sanctuary is a labyrinthine masterpiece. Carved in stone, it hosts multiple saunas, a steam room, an inviting outdoor pool, a bracing cold plunge, and a cosy snack bar stocked with nuts, teas, and refreshing juices.
For those seeking a novel experience, engaging in various ‘sauna rituals’ is an option, each progressively increasing in temperature throughout the day. If you manage to endure the heat, you might witness the sauna master’s captivating performance, involving the artful dropping of ice balls on heated stones and a rhythmic waving of towels to circulate the aromatic steam.
For post-sauna indulgence, don your plush gown and make your way to one of the relaxation huts. Available for booking in two-hour intervals, these havens of tranquillity offer a respite complete with blankets, heaters, and, if you’re fortunate, a captivating view of the sunset.
While Plose may be considered a bit off the beaten track, the travel effort is well-rewarded. The secluded location offers a genuine retreat, providing a sense of tranquility and detachment from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
TRAVEL FACTS
From the UK the most convenient options for reaching My Arbor hotel at Plose are to fly into either Innsbruck or Verona. Innsbruck offers the advantage of being approximately an hour’s drive from the hotel, ensuring a swift and direct journey. Alternatively, Verona provides a scenic option with a two-hour train ride to Brixen, or if like me, you prefer to drive it’s an easy 2¼ hour journey.
Ski schools and instructors are available for beginners or those looking to improve their skills.
Categories: Italy, Luxury ski and snowboard, News, Resort News & Reports