Marriott Signs Lefay to Launch Its First Wellness-Only Brand
Marriott will bring Lefay into its portfolio as its first wellness-only luxury brand, with two Italian resorts and a growing European pipeline.
Photo: Courtesy of Lefay
Marriott International has announced plans to enter a joint venture with the Leali family, founders of Lefay Resorts & Residences, bringing the Italian wellness brand into its global portfolio.
The agreement, announced yesterday, introduces Lefay as Marriott’s first brand dedicated exclusively to luxury wellness. Founded in 2006 by Domenico Alcide and Liliana Leali, the brand currently operates two resorts in northern Italy—on Lake Garda and in the Dolomites—both in nature-driven leisure destinations. Three additional projects are already in development across Tuscany, southern Italy, and the Swiss Alps.
Under the planned structure, Lefay’s existing and pipeline properties will operate through long-term management agreements tied to the new joint venture. The Leali family will contribute the brand and its intellectual property and retain ownership of the Italian real estate assets. Marriott, in turn, will support global expansion through its development platform.
“Marriott is thrilled to collaborate with the Leali family as we grow our luxury wellness portfolio,” said Anthony Capuano, the president and CEO of Marriott International. “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.”
Lefay’s model centers on low-density, eco-focused resorts designed to integrate with their surroundings, emphasizing indoor-outdoor space, sustainable materials, and structured wellness programming. Its proprietary Lefay SPA Method combines scientific research with holistic practices, with offerings ranging from à la carte treatments to multi-day programs focused on preventive health.
“Our family founded Lefay nearly 20 years ago with a clear vision: to create destinations where wellbeing, nature and health come together authentically,” said Domenico Alcide and Liliana Leali. “We are deeply honored to begin this collaboration with Marriott and to further advance our vision of bringing the Lefay brand to the world.”
The partnership will position Lefay within Marriott’s Luxury Group, alongside brands including the Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Edition, and The Luxury Collection.
