If the idea of invigorating alpine hikes, serene spa treatments, and five-star hospitality wrapped in crisp mountain air speaks to your soul, then our recent Italian Alps escape might be your dream itinerary. Here’s a deep dive into our revitalizing retreat — where every day delivered fresh mountain air, gourmet delights, and spa serenity.
Day 1: Welcome to Wellness at Montana Lodge & Spa
Touching down in Turin just after lunch, we transferred to the stunning Montana Lodge & Spa, tucked away in the scenic village of La Thuile. The Erre Spa immediately impressed — a sanctuary of wellness complete with saunas, steam rooms, and heated pools.
Dinner was served at Bistrò Alpino, the hotel’s elegant à la carte restaurant. Locally sourced ingredients and refined mountain flavors set the tone, with stand out dishes such as Vitello Tonnata and game ragu with fresh pappardelle.
Day 2: Waterfalls & Wellness
After a hearty alpine breakfast, we laced up our boots for a guided hike to the Rutor Waterfalls. Led by the all-knowing 68 year old Roberto, and his grandson who translated for him, the hike was invigorating yet accessible, with stunning views and the rewarding thunder of cascading water at the summit.
Upon returning to the hotel, we feasted on a light lunch at Bar Ottavio’s with local meats, cheeses and salads. The afternoon was reserved for complete relaxation at the Erre Spa, where the wellness journey included sensory showers, hydrotherapy pools, and aromatic saunas.
Executive Chef Alessandro Gioè personally introduced the set menu, highlighting seasonal ingredients and regional traditions, with the locally sourced trout ceviche the stand out dish.
Day 3: Sky High at Mont Blanc & A New Chapter of Luxury
Following breakfast, we transferred to the Mont Blanc Skyway, a jaw-dropping cable car ride up to Europe’s highest peak. A casual lunch at the Alpine Buffet gave us time to absorb the scenery before heading to our next base: the luxurious Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc.
The afternoon welcomed us with a peaceful yoga session with the hotel’s local yoga instructor. With our chakras aligned, we discovered the charming town of Courmayeur before indulging in inventive cocktails at the hotel’s bar.
Dinner at La Fourchette Restaurant showcased alpine haute cuisine with impeccable presentation and wine pairings throughout.
Day 4: Alpine Hiking & Oriental Healing
Day four offered a little bit of everything: a cable car ride up to the Plan Checrouit ski area, a scenic mountain hike, and even a dip in a heated outdoor swimming pool nestled in the hills.
Back at the hotel, we indulged in a typical Alpine buffet brunch, followed by personalised Oriental spa treatments at the Erre Spa. These 30-minute sessions blended Eastern techniques with alpine botanicals, adding a unique twist to our wellness experience.
Finally, we savoured our final evening meal at La Fourchette, capping the night with cocktails at the EQ Lounge Bar.
Day 5: Thermal Bliss Before Goodbye
Our final morning led us to one of the region’s most beloved wellness landmarks: the Pré Saint-Didier thermal baths. These historic springs offered panoramic mountain views, steamy outdoor pools, and an array of hydrotherapy experiences that felt like a grand finale to our therapeutic escape. Feeling extremely happy, and wishing that every day reflected that of an Italian retiree, we headed to the restaurant for a glass of wine and lasagna.
Finally, it was time to head toward Milan for our flight back home, feeling relaxed, refreshed, and ready to book our return. Not even a delayed flight home could dull our spirits!
