Review: An Alpine Spa Retreat
Review: An Alpine Spa Retreat
Panoramic vistas, fresh mountain air and outdoor sports attract many to the Forsthofgut nature hotel, but it’s the spa that makes it almost impossible to leave
Nestled at the foot of the Austrian Alps is the extraordinary Naturhotel Forsthofgut. The surrounding mountains usually enjoy a late flourish of snow but as the weather warms the ski slopes make way for luxury sun loungers and the resort welcomes summer visitors.
Soaking up the drama of the mountains from the lake house infinity pool is the perfect start to your wellbeing reset. The pure bliss is only briefly interrupted by some important decision making – where to explore next at the generous 5,700 m2 waldSPA. First stop, the Japanese Onsen pool with its 42-degree heated waters, then sweat it out in the Finnish sauna with rocky mountain views perfectly framed by the floor-to-ceiling glass wall, before cooling off with a cold dip in the lake.
Soaking up the drama of the mountains from the lake house infinity pool is the perfect start to your wellbeing reset. The pure bliss is only briefly interrupted by some important decision making – where to explore next at the generous 5,700 m2 waldSPA. First stop, the Japanese Onsen pool with its 42-degree heated waters, then sweat it out in the Finnish sauna with rocky mountain views perfectly framed by the floor-to-ceiling glass wall, before cooling off with a cold dip in the lake.
A three-storey health, beauty and fitness space is reserved just for adults, ensuring blissful relaxation whilst connecting with the stunning natural surroundings. The views from the gym and exercise studio give your workout an extra special boost. Start on the ground floor and work your way to the top through saunas, chill rooms, outdoor pools and hot tubs.
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The new waldSPA Health opened this year with a range of wellbeing treatments from Cryotherapy to uVida fitness testing. The latter involves measuring your breath at rest, and analysis that shows how effective your body is at consuming calories, unlocking what you need to focus on to achieve your fitness goals.
There’s plenty of outdoor summer fitness to enjoy from mountain biking, horse riding and hikes into the lush green landscape. It’s a great escape for families too with plenty of areas to enjoy together such as an indoor swimming pool with family-sized loungers and an exhilarating slide plunging into a tropical forest room. If you briefly thought one ride was enough, the winners’ board at the bottom is likely to motivate a few more wild plunges. With kids’ playrooms and a teenagers’ hangout, plus a kids’ club with a packed programme of entertainment from morning through to movie night, parents can escape for some serious R&R or a peaceful dinner.
There are five restaurants creating a foodie paradise. Step into Mizumi for a Japanese dining experience and extensive sushi menu. Fine wines and jaw-dropping cocktails are made by your sommelier during the unforgettable seven courses at silva, the newest and most exclusive Forsthofgut dining experience. Dedicated to providing sustainable food, at Restaurant 1617 you’ll find the R50 menu with ingredients sourced from the farms within 50km of the hotel. The Schmuck family owners started as farmers and remain dedicated to the land, bringing nature into every aspect of your stay.
The dramatic mountain ranges may be the reason many come to Naturhotel Forsthofgut, but it’s the deep sense of natural wellbeing that will keep you coming back for more.