Register to get free articles
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
Marriott International has announced that it has entered a joint venture with the Leali family to bring hospitality brand Lefay into its portfolio.
Established in Italy in 2006 by Domenico Alcide and Liliana Leali, Lefay operates a series of nature-based resorts that centre its SPA Method, which merges scientific research with traditional holistic wellness.
Each location is designed as an ‘eco‑resort’, prioritising architectural synchronicity with the natural environment, large indoor‑outdoor spaces, sustainable materials, and wellness programs that blend movement, nutrition, and preventative health.
The brand’s philosophy revolves around “space, serenity and sustainability”, and hopes to reassociate modern luxury with wellbeing and authenticity.
Its portfolio includes two luxury resorts in Lago di Garda and Dolomiti Italy, while its pipeline features three properties under development in Tuscany, Southern Italy and the Swiss Alps.
Lefay’s current and upcoming resorts will be managed under long-term agreements through its new joint venture with Marriott, with Lefay providing its existing brand and intellectual property assets.
The brand’s founders will continue to own their Italian real estate, while expanding the Lefay name internationally with the help of Marriott’s development capabilities.
Marriott said the partnership is grounded in a joint mission to “preserve Lefay’s unique identity and Italian roots while advancing its long‑term growth through targeted destinations that correspond with the brand’s values”.
Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, said: “Marriott is thrilled to collaborate with the Leali family as we grow our luxury wellness portfolio. Luxury is increasingly defined by wellbeing, purpose and meaningful experiences. We are excited to introduce Lefay to our customers around the world and thoughtfully expand Marriott’s presence in the luxury wellness space.”
Marriott International president of luxury Tina Edmundson added: “Lefay represents a new expression of luxury, one that is wellness‑first, deeply experiential, and emotionally resonant.
“As guest expectations continue to evolve, our collaboration with Lefay will allow us to thoughtfully extend our luxury offerings into a space where wellbeing is not just an amenity, but the heart of the travel experience.”
Alcide and Leali said: “Our family founded Lefay nearly 20 years ago with a clear vision: to create destinations where wellbeing, nature and health come together authentically,” “We are deeply honored to begin this collaboration with Marriott and to further advance our vision of bringing the Lefay brand to the world.”
