Sonnwies — a retreat for burnt-out parents

From kids’ spa treatments to family-friendly forest yoga — this is five-star luxury that everyone can enjoy, says Isabelle Aron
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Isabelle Aron15 August 2023

If the idea of a family-friendly hotel conjures up images of lacklustre all-you-can-eat buffets and ball pits filled with screaming children, rest assured that Sonnwies is the antidote to all of that. A family-only wellness hotel in the Dolomites, this luxe spot caters to parents and children of all ages, without leaving anyone feeling short-changed.

Located in a mountain meadow in the village of Lüsen, the hotel offers accommodation for families of all sizes with 70 rooms, suites and villas, including some with private saunas, hot tubs and balconies.

A wellness hotel that caters to families might sound unlikely, but Sonnwies manages to cover all bases. At the family spa, little ones will love the children’s cinema sauna. And with outdoor and indoor pools (heated all year round), there’s plenty of room for swimming, splashing and even sliding at the hotel’s aqua park complete with several slides, while little ones can paddle in the baby and toddler pools.

There’s plenty to do as a family but the hotel also offers parents some child-free time (hallelujah!), thanks to its battalion of in-house carers and childminders. Make the most of them and head to the adult-only spa to get some serious zen.

Sonnwies is a luxury family-friendly hotel in the Dolomites
Sonnwies

The facilities include steam rooms, saunas, a plunge pool and relaxation rooms with mountain views. If you fancy something more energetic there’s a state-of-the art gym, or you could try more wholesome pursuits like forest yoga or Nordic walking. For those really wanting to put themselves through their paces, personal training sessions are also available.

After all that activity, you might want to book yourself in for a soothing treatment. The hotel offers hot stone and anti-stress massages, collagen-boosting facials, manicures and pedicures. There are lots of treatments designed with parents in mind, including a “me-time for mommys” package and couples treatments. If you’re expecting, treat yourself to a pregnancy massage or, if you would like a memento to take home, try having a belly plaster cast. Want to treat your kids, too? The hotel even offers child-friendly treatments, like the “Sleeping Beauty” which includes a massage and surprise gift.

Families will enjoy the fresh Alpine air
Handout

The hotel’s sheltered spot means it gets plenty of sunshine (hi, vitamin D). Make the most of the (hopefully) good weather with some alfresco activities — you can hire mountain e-bikes for adults and children (as well as bike trailers for children) or go on a picturesque hike and fill your lungs with Alpine air.

Childcare is also available in the evenings, meaning you can enjoy a five-course dinner (and maybe sample a bottle from the 650-strong wine cellar).

Who knew family holidays could be so relaxing?

From €620 per room per night for a family room for two adults and two children, sonnwies.com

Find more of Europe’s best wellness retreats here.

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