Gardena Grödnerhof

Run by the Bernardi family for over 80 years, the 5-star Gardena Grödnerhof is famous for its warm welcome, excellent cuisine, and fabulous spa. The hotel is in the largest village of the Val Gardena, Ortisei, with easy access to the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest high-altitude alpine meadowland, set within the UNESCO-listed Dolomite Mountains. The hotel is a member of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux, which recognises its exquisite levels of service, superb attention to detail and fabulous cuisine.

Interiors boast high quality furniture and furnishings, carefully curated to create a series of elegant, comfortable, and cosy spaces in which to relax. Statement fireplaces, warm rich woods and sumptuous sofas and armchairs, add to the laidback vibe. All rooms and suites have furnished balconies with either garden or village views, a comfortable den area, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, desk, minbar, safety deposit box and modern ensuite bathroom. Trade up to a Superior Room for extra space, separate WC, and bidet.

Deluxe Suites boast a balcony stretching the entire length of the suite and a separate living room with fireplace. For additional space, book a Wellness Garden or Gardena Deluxe Suite. Larger groups and families can check in to either a Chalet Garden or Chalet Attico Suite with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, spacious living room with a dining area and Bulthaup kitchen.

Children are welcome and families also have the option to book two interconnecting Superior Rooms. There is also a playroom and Kid’s Club for those over 3 years, with supervision from 3pm to 11pm, six days a week.

Rates include a generous buffet breakfast and teatime snacks, while the alpine-styled Gardena Restaurant serves Mediterranean, Italian, regional, international, and vegetarian specialities. There is an extensive wine cellar for enhancing the gourmet experience. The hotel also boasts one of the finest restaurants in the South Tyrol area, the Anna Stuben Gourmet Restaurant. Awarded a Michelin star and four Gault & Millau toques, the restaurant attracts gourmands from across the world. Guests need to book a table well in advance for an unforgettable culinary experience. For pre- and post-dinner drinks the Lounge & Bar offers both a comfortable and convivial setting.

For those interested in wellbeing, the Gardena Spa has a selection of saunas and aromatic steam baths, a ladies-only spa, indoor pool, cold pool, and large outdoor whirlpool tub. What’s more, the post-sauna relaxation area has a selection of water beds, loungers, infrared chairs, and floating beds, offering a real treat for the senses. There is also a fully equipped fitness area. Both beauty treatments and massage are available to book. Also free to guests is a weekly fitness programme with a trainer, involving aquagym, yoga, gentle gymnastics and an introduction to the fitness equipment.

Close to the bustling village of Ortisei, with its lively pedestrian area, shops, cafés and bars, the closest international airport is at Innsbruck, which is a 1-hr 40-minute drive away. Alternatively, Verona Airport is around 2-hrs 15-minutes by car.