QC Terme Bagni Nuovi ★★★★★

Winding our way through the picturesque Italian Alps, we arrive at the doors of the QC Terme Bagni Nuovi ***** and almost trip over our cases at the thought of staying in such a grandiose and magnificent hotel with its wooden and stone façade. We chose Bormio for its reputation as a haven of relaxation and wonderful five-star service alongside its idyllic setting and natural thermal baths; and we weren’t to be disappointed.

Built in 1836, the hotel has held on to the charm and splendour of days gone by, even as the world changed apace around it: frescos, floral motifs and soft curves accentuate the delightful Art Nouveau style. While the red-coated bellboys have long since disappeared, they've been replaced by an exceptionally efficient and discreet hotel team that welcomes us with a warmth that dispels the cool mountain air. Heading straight to our room, we discover a place in-keeping with the rest of the hotel: spacious, authentic and full of character, but also fitted out with every modern comfort. The room is bathed in light from the large window, through which we are already savouring the views over the valley and the mountains. A little taster of the treats to come in the hotel's fantastic wellness complex.

The complex is the crowning glory of our Alpine palace, with 30 different thermal and spa treatments and activities available at the hotel. We waste no time in diving into the indoor and outdoor hot spring water, flitting between the Turkish baths, pool, hot tub and sauna. And, as two of the hotel's lucky guests, we enjoy unlimited access to it all - luxury on tap! Aside from being the perfect place to forget the world outside and restore our bodies and minds, the spa is just the ticket to soothe tired muscles after a day of exploring the dramatic peaks. In winter, the whole mountain is transformed into a playground for winter sports enthusiasts, carpeted with a thick layer of white snow with over 30 miles of ski trails.

Back at the hotel, we allow the warm waters to melt away the aches and pains in our heavy legs before returning to our Platinum Room for a restful night's sleep in the quiet of the mountains. In the morning, a gourmet breakfast awaits to set us on our way for another day exploring the pretty slopes or foraging through the medieval treasures of Bormio. The QC Terme Bagni Nuovi is a royal destination where beauty and splendour are the watchwords at any time of year. We're already planning our return...