Marriott International and the Leali family, founders of Lefay, today announced their plans to enter into a joint venture to bring the highly awarded luxury wellness hospitality brand Lefay into the Marriott portfolio.
This collaboration combines Lefay’s approach to holistic wellbeing with Marriott’s global scale, and the power of its award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform. Lefay will be the first brand in Marriott’s portfolio dedicated exclusively to luxury wellness.
Founded in Italy in 2006 by Domenico Alcide and Liliana Leali, Lefay is known for its immersive resorts in natural settings and its proprietary Lefay SPA Method, which blends scientific research with holistic wellness traditions. The brand’s philosophy centers on space, serenity, and sustainability and aims to redefine modern luxury through wellbeing and authenticity.
The Lefay portfolio features two award-winning luxury resorts in Lago di Garda and Dolomiti Italy—both located in nature‑rich leisure destinations. Additionally, the brand’s pipeline includes three properties under development in Tuscany, Southern Italy, and the Swiss Alps. Lefay’s existing and pipeline resorts will operate under long-term hotel management agreements with the new joint venture, to which Lefay will contribute existing brand and intellectual property assets. The Italian real estate assets will continue to be held by the brand’s founders. Together, the parties intend to grow the brand around the world, leveraging Marriott’s powerful development capabilities.
“Marriott is thrilled to collaborate with the Leali family as we grow our luxury wellness portfolio,” said Anthony Capuano, President and CEO, Marriott International.
A Heritage Brand Embracing Global Wellbeing
Each Lefay property is designed as an eco‑resort, emphasizing architectural harmony with the natural environment, expansive indoor‑outdoor spaces, sustainable materials, and wellness programs that integrate movement, nutrition, and preventative health. Guests may choose from à‑la‑carte treatments or structured multi‑day wellness programs, all rooted in Lefay’s holistic philosophy.
Strengthening Marriott’s Luxury Portfolio and Wellness Offerings
Lefay will complement Marriott’s existing Luxury Group portfolio while appealing to a rapidly expanding global audience seeking transformative travel experiences focused on health and longevity.
The relationship between Marriott and the Leali family reflects a shared vision to preserve Lefay’s distinct identity and Italian heritage while supporting its long‑term growth through carefully selected destinations that align with the brand’s values.
The transaction is subject to customary approvals and closing conditions.