From its humble beginnings as a single rundown inn, the Dorfer family has grown Quellenhof Luxury Resorts into one Italy’s leading spa and wellness brands, with three high-end resorts across South Tyrol and Lake Garda. Now in its third generation, Heinrich Dorfer runs the business with his wife Meggy and their children, Carolin, Lukas, and Tobias. He spoke to The European about how the Quellenhof Luxury Resorts legacy remains a true family affair
The Quellenhof brand has grown from a small inn to three high-end resorts. How does that history shape the experience for guests today?
Even with multiple locations, Quellenhof has never lost its family-run touch. Each resort is managed with the same warmth and attention to detail that has defined the business for generations. Whether guests choose to stay at the flagship Quellenhof Luxury Resort Passeier or the new exclusive Quellenhof See Lodge (Adults Only) – both nestled in the South Tyrol-Dolomites – or unwind at the serene lakeside retreat in Lazise on Lake Garda, they’ll find the same balance of luxury and personal service. It’s this continuity that keeps guests returning year after year.
Wellness is a major draw at Quellenhof. How does the brand balance relaxation and innovation across its resorts?
Wellness is at the heart of all three Quellenhof resorts. The South Tyrol locations are known for their extensive spa facilities, while the Lake Garda resort offers lake-view wellness experiences. Across all properties, Quellenhof combines traditional relaxation—think saunas and pools—with modern wellness innovations, including high-tech treatments and its in-house organic skincare range, The Q Touch – innovative cosmetics. Adults-only spa zones offer tranquillity, while family-friendly areas ensure wellness is accessible to all.
Gourmet dining is a highlight at Quellenhof. What can guests expect at the different resorts?
Food has always been central to Quellenhof, from the days when guests gathered for freshly caught blue trout in Passeiertal to today’s refined dining experiences. Each resort has its own culinary identity: guests can enjoy an award-winning gourmet restaurant in South Tyrol, Japanese Teppanyaki at the Sky Restaurant, or an immersive gourmet experience with exquisite fish and seafood specialties in the “underwater restaurant” at Quellenhof See Lodge. No matter the location, fine dining is a given.
Many luxury resorts focus on adults, but Quellenhof is known for being family-friendly. What’s available for younger guests?
Luxury and family-friendly don’t always go hand in hand, but at Quellenhof, they do. The Passeier resort in South Tyrol is particularly well-equipped for children, with a kids’ club, trampoline hall, go-kart racing, climbing walls, bowling, and a water park with slides. The Lake Garda resort balances lakeside tranquillity with family-friendly activities, ensuring that both parents and children can enjoy their holiday to the fullest. Meanwhile, the Quellenhof See Lodge is the perfect hideaway for adults, as it is exclusively reserved for guests aged 14 and above.
Outdoor activities are a key part of the Quellenhof experience. How do the different locations cater to adventure seekers?
Each Quellenhof resort makes the most of its surroundings. In South Tyrol, guests can hike in the Dolomites, go mountain biking, or play golf. The Lake Garda resort offers water sports, sailing, and scenic lakeside excursions. No matter the location, Quellenhof blends luxury with adventure, giving guests the best of both worlds.
With multiple resorts, how does Quellenhof maintain high standards of safety and hygiene?
Despite its growth, Quellenhof maintains rigorous safety and hygiene standards across all resorts. Pools and spa areas are regularly maintained with high-quality filtration, and food safety measures are a top priority. The goal is to provide a seamless, worry-free experience, whether guests are enjoying a mountain retreat or a lakeside escape.
Sustainability is a growing concern in luxury travel. What steps has Quellenhof taken to reduce its impact?
Sustainability is built into Quellenhof’s long-term vision. The resorts use renewable energy, prioritise waste reduction, and focus on water conservation. Local and organic produce is a key part of the dining experience, ensuring that luxury doesn’t come at an environmental cost. The team is always looking for ways to push sustainability forward.
What’s next for Quellenhof? Any exciting developments on the horizon?
Expansion and innovation are constant at Quellenhof. Future plans include new spa treatments, bespoke outdoor adventure packages, and further sustainability initiatives. With three distinct resorts already offering world-class experiences, the brand is set to continue raising the bar in high-end hospitality.
Further information
www.quellenhof-resorts.it
Interview: John E. Kaye
Images: © Quellenhof Luxury Resorts, F. Andergassen, S. Schwabl
