Marriott Acquires Stake in Lefay Through Joint Venture with Founding Family
The luxury wellness brand, founded in Italy in 2006, becomes Marriott's first property exclusively focused on wellbeing as it expands its portfolio.
Marriott International, Inc. has completed a joint venture transaction with the Leali family, the founders of Lefay, bringing the Italian luxury wellness hospitality brand into Marriott's global portfolio. The deal marks a strategic move for Marriott to deepen its focus on wellbeing as a category within luxury hospitality.
Lefay was founded in Italy in 2006 by Domenico Alcide and Liliana Leali. The brand operates two award-winning properties in Lago di Garda and the Dolomites, with additional resorts under development in Tuscany, Southern Italy, and the Swiss Alps. The company is known for its immersive resorts positioned in natural settings and its proprietary Lefay SPA Method, which integrates scientific research with holistic wellness traditions.
Under the structure of the joint venture, Marriott and the Leali family will own the Lefay brand and related intellectual property assets, while the Italian real estate assets remain owned by the brand's founders. The properties will operate through long-term management agreements with the joint venture. Marriott will provide support through its global development, sales, marketing, and distribution infrastructure, while Lefay maintains its distinct brand identity and wellness philosophy.
Lefay properties emphasize architectural integration with natural surroundings, expansive indoor-outdoor spaces, and sustainable materials. Guests can select from à‑la‑carte treatments or structured multi-day wellness programs grounded in holistic and science-backed methodology. The brand's philosophy centers on transformative spaces, serenity, and sustainability.
The properties will integrate into Marriott's digital platforms and the Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program, with that process expected to conclude in late 2026. As of March 31, 2026, Marriott operates a portfolio of over 9,900 properties across 146 countries and territories. This acquisition represents the company's first brand dedicated exclusively to luxury wellness within its portfolio architecture.