Heaven is, as I have discovered, a paradise of authentic Italian
architecture - a farmhouse so inspiring that I can only name it as
magical. The property, built in the 16th Century, is San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge and
this farmhouse is one of the most spectacular, no, the most
spectacular property I have ever been privileged enough to visit.
It isn't blingy, it isn't boasting, it isn't showing off. It isn't
packed full of the latest gadgets, it isn't competing with its
neighbour, it isn't over the top. It is quite simply and
effortlessly, breathtaking. And that is not a word I use
lightly.
San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge
has everything spot on - the air of simplicity screams luxury,
without screaming about it (yes, that is possible). The
owners, (your staff), are spine tinglingly passionate - and as I
have come to realise, this is the groundwork on which a fantastic
holiday is made. "Service, service, service!! Oh! Mamma Mia!!"
Stefano says, and he is right. Believe me, he knows what true
'service' is and the service he offers comes so naturally. This
isn't work - this is his dream that he wants to share with you and
that is why you are guaranteed the highest standard of care when
you stay here. When you do, you will arrive as a guest and leave as
a friend.
After 5 minutes at the Lodge I am already totally in love with
it. No, in fact before I even arrive! The long and winding mountain
road up there is not only immaculate (we followed a road sweeper)
but exciting. As we climb higher and higher, the mystery is
enchanting and I know that whatever is at the end of the road is
going to be good....well, I was wrong. It's magnificent. The view
is incredible - the evening sun still catches the
Dolomite peaks in the distance and the valley below looks sleepy
and so very far, far away - I'm in an Italian paradise and I never
knew it existed.
The aim here is to 'experience'. It's not just a holiday, and
it's not just a place to rest after skiing - it's a time to
experience new things. Perhaps Porcini hunting, perhaps Strawberry
picking, or perhaps chopping wood in the forest above - all guided
by Stefano. Perhaps even, a round of 18 holes on the golf course
and yes, even in winter. Lets not forget the skiing - the ski area
is vast and cruisey and I get the feeling a good morning on the
slope, a coffee stop and a long lazy lunch is definitely the
Italian way and why not?! It is a holiday after all.
Enjoy fresh water from the Lodge's own Spring (the clearest most
fresh tasting water I have ever tasted). Let Stefano carve
you some fresh Speck ham in the wine Cave whilst surrounded by the
finest Tirolean wines and perhaps even sample a few. Then be amazed
by the stainless steel 'whirlpool' which contrasts perfectly with
the rusticity of the lodge and seriously does have the best view
and position of any I have seen. Then enjoy the most sumptuous and
delicious home cooking you can possibly imagine, set to please not
overwhelm. We're not talking fussy or fancy cuisine; we're talking
wholesome and delightful showstoppers which showcase Italian
flavours and ingredients to the most exceptional level. Divine.
It was a great struggle to leave this paradise behind. As I
descended the mountain to the valley below and look back, already
counting down the days until I can go there again, I can almost see
Stefano still waving, on the edge of his cobble-laden heli pad, as
he watches his new friends depart his South Tirolean kingdom that
is San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge.
I can tell you more about this stunning property - I can talk
about it for days. Call me on +44 1993 899 421 and
let The Oxford Ski Company transport you here.
