Invitation to Stillness / Aethos Monterosa

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Val d’Aosta, Aethos Monterosa brings together the best of nature, comfort and exceptional dining into an unforgettably lavish alpine experience. As part of the Aethos collection—a global community of conscious explorers—the boutique hotel radiates understated elegance, offering 5-star hospitality paired with experiences designed to rejuvenat mind, body, and spirit. Intentionally designed with wood, stone, and metal to echo the surrounding peaks, its 30 two-level suites follow a minimalist aesthetic, perfectly framing the majestic mountain views. This winter, Aethos Monterosa debuts two exciting venues: the 1568 Japanese Steakhouse and The Doping, both ought to add a fresh twist to Champoluc’s dining scene.

Founded in 2018, this fast-growing collective of boutique hotels, resorts, and members’ clubs caters to a global tribe of seekers—those who crave not just comfort but meaning, not just five-star indulgence but an experience that lingers like a well-loved passage in a novel. With properties nestled in the folds of Italy, Portugal, and Corsica, Aethos is redefining what it means to travel well. And in the Alps, where the air is sharper and the silence more profound, Aethos Monterosa rises like something out of a Hemingway daydream—equal parts adventure and introspection.

Skiers and freeriders are whisked to the region’s best slopes via a private shuttle, but for those who see mountains as more than just a playground, there’s something far more exhilarating: heliskiing across untouched expanses, freeriding through alpine cathedrals of powder, or scaling the resort’s own 12-metre-high ice-climbing wall—the only one of its kind in Europe—as well as an indoor climbing wall with more than 35 routes to suit climbers of all abilities.

There are hotels, and then there are sanctuaries—places where time bends, where luxury is not a statement of excess but an invitation to deeper living. Aethos, a hospitality brand with the soul of a nomad and the mind of a philosopher, belongs to the latter.

Ph Marco Giuliano

Ph Marco Giuliano

For those who find their thrill in quieter pursuits and seek an ultimate relaxation, Aethos Monterosa doesn’t just offer wellness—it orchestrates it. 600 square metres of spa indulgence with an 25-metre indoor pool, a shimmering ribbon of blue with panoramic views of peaks that have stood since the dawn of time. And there is the wood-burning outdoor sauna where the scent of smoldering cedar lingers in the air, a steam room that dissolves the boundaries between body and breath, outdoor hot tubs where snowfall feels like poetry against warm skin while contemplating the stunning frosty surroundings.

“Relaxation, rejuvenation and revitalisation: approach nature gently and trust in its natural effects.”

Ph Marco Giuliano

Positioned at the lofty height of 1,568 meters above sea level in the serene beauty of Champoluc, 1568 Japanese Steakhouse offers an immersion in culinary artistry where the crisp mountain air meets the sophistication of Japanese and Western flavors. The name itself—an homage to its altitude—whispers of the elevated experience that awaits inside, where sleek, modern design sets the stage for a feast that transcends mere dining. In a region renowned for its rustic charm, 1568 reinvents the concept of luxury dining with a menu that dances effortlessly between two worlds: the pristine tradition of Japanese techniques and the bold, hearty flavors of European steak culture; a balance that is both daring and precise.

The Miso-glazed Wagyu Beef is nothing short of a revelation. The rich, marbled texture of the Wagyu is coaxed into perfection, with the miso adding a layer of depth that sings in harmony with the beef’s natural umami. It’s a dish that’s both delicate and robust, a beautiful contradiction that captures the essence of the restaurant’s philosophy—where East meets West with masterful poise. The Black Angus Fillet, tender and succulent, stands as a testament to the excellence of European beef, its flavors amplified by the grill’s smokiness and a hint of char, reminding you of the primal joy of meat at its finest. Then there’s the Yuzu-infused Tuna Sashimi, a dish that brings the refreshing, citrusy zing of Japan into a delicate dance with the silky smoothness of the tuna. It’s a light, refreshing counterpart to the richness of the meat—perfect for cleansing the palate, a reprieve before the next indulgence.

Yet, beyond the courses themselves, 1568 offers something uniquely atmospheric—a dining experience deeply rooted in its mountain surroundings. The restaurant’s interiors, adorned with natural materials and a calming neutral palette, evoke the tranquility of the snow-capped peaks just outside the window. It’s a space that feels both contemporary and timeless, effortlessly in tune with the beauty of the Alpine landscape. To accompany the meal, the glasses of sparkling sake elevate the experience further, its effervescence providing a gentle contrast to the richness of the dishes. The delicate bubbles, paired with the nuanced sweetness of the sake, offer a refreshing lift, cleansing and complementing the layers of flavor. It’s the perfect toast to a meal that blends two worlds into something wholly new.

A spirited alpine escape, The Doping Champoluc is inspired by its namesake cocktail bar in Milan. Designed to be the ultimate après-ski destination, it features warm wooden interiors, stone accents, and leather furnishings reminiscent of a luxurious mountain refuge.

Ph Marco Giuliano

Aethos is not just a destination; it is a philosophy. It is a home for those who understand that luxury is not what you own, but what you experience—what lingers, like a favorite book, long after you’ve turned the last page.

In this snow capped sequel of the iconic Milanese bar, you will find a variety of creative cocktails you can enjoy along a selection of locally inspired bites. Every Saturday, The Doping Champoluc transforms into the ultimate hangout spot during La Soirée DJ Nights, the perfect ending to a day on the slopes.

Aethos is not just a destination; it is a philosophy. The Monterosa retreat is a place where adventure and stillness, exhilaration and reflection, exist in perfect equilibrium. Here, gourmet dining is not an afterthought but a sensory journey; live music and cultural events are not add-ons but integral to the rhythm of the place. It is a home for those who understand that luxury is not what you own, but what you experience—what lingers, like a favorite book, long after you’ve turned the last page.

This philosophy is reflected in the retreat’s striking interior design—a bold blend of brutalism and contemporary luxury. Raw concrete surfaces, angular architectural elements, and warm, tactile furnishings create an environment that is both avant-garde and deeply inviting. The sculptural staircase and geometric lighting add an artistic, almost futuristic element, while rust-colored metal introduces warmth and depth. Smooth leather, rough concrete, polished marble, and soft textiles come together in a harmonious play of contrasts, balancing minimalism with comfort. Overall, the design conveys a sense of modern sophistication with a raw, organic edge, reminiscent of high-end alpine lodges mixed with avant-garde hospitality spaces. A sanctuary where design and atmosphere converge, inviting guests to lose themselves in a world where every detail is intentional, every texture tells a story, and every moment lingers long after departure.

Ph Marco Giuliano