Casa Al Sole

Overview

In the heart of Ortisei in the Dolomites, Casa al Sole is a charming boutique B&B. It is the perfect base for hiking, with some of the Dolomite's most spectacular trails just moments away. Intimate and thoughtfully designed, the hotel feels less like a place you simply stay and more like a home you are welcomed into.

The Owners

Manuel and Alexandra are incredibly warm hosts, and the hotel feels like a direct reflection of them.

Deeply passionate and knowledgeable about the area, they are always on hand with their favourite scenic hikes and foodie spots. Alexandra, previously a guide and concierge, knows the mountain paths inside out. Manuel brings a serious love of food and natural wine, shaped by many years cooking in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe.

The building itself is personal, too. Manuel grew up in this house, and together they’ve lovingly restored it into the retreat it is today.

Why we love it

- The location: Beautiful hikes on the doorstep and in a lively vilage. The best of both worlds.

- The hosts: Warm, knowledgeable, and full of excellent local recommendations.

- The breakfast & wine: We still talk about Manual's breakfasts and they are yet to be beaten. In the afternoons, the hotel becomes a wine bar, where Manuel pours natural wines (or spritz!) in the sunshine after a long hike. No better place to be.

The Setting

Casa al Sole sits in Ortisei, in the heart of Val Gardena, surrounded by some of the most striking peaks in the Dolomites.

The village has strong Ladin roots and a long tradition of craftsmanship. Mountains in every direction, changing with the seasons. Skiing in winter, wildflower hikes in spring, lake swims in summer, long golden walks in autumn.

The details that matter

-Tasty breakfast
-Wine bar in the afternoons
-Close to the hiking trails
-Great night sleep

Food & Drink

A breakfast of local treats is served each morning, fresh coffee from the Torrefazione Giamaica Caffè in Verona, breads and pastries from the local bakery, butter, yoghurts and cold meats from the farmer. The hotel's Housebar is open from 4pm. Come for a glass of natural wine, beer or coffee or tasty snacks to keep you going until dinner such as rye bread with speck and anchovies from the Cantabrian Sea with farmer’s butter. There are some local dining hotspot secrets that owners Manuel and Alexandra will be happy to let you in on.

Our Notes (tips)

-Load up on Manual's breakfasts..you'll need the energy for hiking and you won't be complaining.

-As strange as it feels, you can help yourself to the selection of drinks and snacks behind the bar. From 4pm, Manual will be around to help.

-You must visit Maso Paroton... a family run restaurant a taxi ride away with incredible tradional food. Ask for a table in the cabin with panoramic views. One of the best experiences of our trip.

-Make sure you download Komoot for Alexandra and Manual's recommended hikes.

-Our favourite hikes:
1. Seceda ridge trail (3-4 hours). Take Ortisei cable car to Seceda (go fairly early as does get busy).
2. The Rasciesa Cross and Church trail (2 hours). Take the Rasciesa funciolar next to the hotel.
3. Alpe di Siusi is on our list for next time. -Stop off at the riffugios on your hikes for a re-fuel (e.g. Rifugio Firenze- Seceda, Resciesa Hut- Rasciesa Cross and Church). Grab a spritz, beer or tradional lunch.

-At the bottom of the hill, there is a great deli to grab a sandwich for a 'packed lunch' which you can enjoy admiring the mountain views on your hike. It's a delicious cheaper option..but still grab a spritz at the riffugio on the way round.