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Wellness and the Alps have always been inextricably linked due to the abundance of fresh mountain air, crystal clear water and the proximity of nose-tingling pine forests.
Forsthofgut Hotel has long understood the power of its natural environment – fortunately they have a wealth of it on their doorstep from the encircling Leogang Mountains creating an all-natural wonderland.
In their spa, the hotel has harnessed the essence of the Alps with an innovative ‘forest-spa’ concept. Its thoughtful design mirrors the forest with its eco-friendly architecture and use of local spruce and pine. Huge glazed windows let the nature in – just staring at the mountains while a fire gently crackles in the corner is a meditative art and helps press the pause button on life immediately.
But the spa is so much more than comfy seats and lofty views. It is made up of a variation of ‘worlds’ so pick your planet and you’ll end up feeling weightless and free of stress. Detox in the sauna zones, where you’ll find a range of choice including rose quartz or spruce with a bracing ‘cold water cliff shower’ afterwards, that mimics an icy forest stream to completely re-energise.
Outside, the natural spring bathing lake makes an inviting place to spend a sunny afternoon, where strategically placed cabanas, wreathed in reeds, offer a peaceful escape in nature. This is also the location for morning meditation and yoga, surrounded by the squawks and sounds of aquatic life. The 25-metre lap pool that seemingly floats into the landscape is the place for exercise as are the workout studios and spinning bikes.
For one-on-one therapy, choose a treatment inspired by the Alps. Succumb to a massage scented with the oil of wild herbs, a hot stone massage that includes crystals from the mountains or take a bath steamy with pine and cedar oil, sprinkled with flowers from the meadow.
Afterwards, sit back in the forest-theme tea room with a herbal tea, take a whirl in the roof-top hot tub or chillax in the library set against the majesty of the Leogang Mountains. With countless places to relax and rejuvenate against a gorgeously natural panorama of soul-soothing proportions, Forsthofgut makes it very easy to appreciate the healing power of nature.