© Hannes Niederkofler

Today’s travelers are especially drawn to authentic hotels. The industry has recognized this trend and is increasingly offering accommodations where the landscape and local history are seamlessly woven into the architecture. Nowhere is this more successfully achieved than in the design hotels of Northern Italy—a place where Italian joie de vivre meets German precision. The result? Architectural icons par excellence.

© Hannes Niederkofler

In St. Lorenzen, at the entrance to the Gadertal Valley in the Dolomites, stands Castel Maurn, a medieval castle surrounded by the lush meadows and dense forests of the Puster Valley. During its transformation into an elegant boutique hotel, the building’s character was carefully preserved—and even enhanced. Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. Natural stone walls and original wooden beams recall centuries past, while contemporary artworks and designer pieces add stylish accents.

Clear lines and generous glass fronts

© Hannes Niederkofler

Not far from Castel Maurn, on a sun-drenched plateau in Oberbozen, sheep and cows have been grazing for centuries. Today, this idyllic setting is home to the luxurious wellness boutique hotel AEON. The only remaining trace of the former farmhouse amid the lush flower meadows is a 550-year-old barn, whose historic façade is protected as a heritage site and served as inspiration for the hotel’s harmonious design concept. The new building is constructed using wood from the surrounding forests, and its sharply pitched roofs reflect the traditional contours of the region’s iconic gabled rooftops.

© Fabian Leitner

The architecture of AEON is deliberately minimalist. Clean lines and expansive glass fronts not only create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces but also make panoramic views an integral part of the design, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty at all times. This is especially true in the large infinity pool—quite literally. As guests swim their laps, they are treated to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain ranges, with their stunning diversity of colors and shapes.

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A completely different view awaits guests at a new hotel 40 kilometers north of Bolzano, in the historic bishop’s town of Brixen—one of the most beautiful cities in the Alpine region. Its magnificent buildings and picturesque gardens tell the story of its illustrious past. In the heart of the city, inside its oldest building, lies the luxurious lifestyle hotel Adler. Serving as an inn for centuries, it has hosted numerous distinguished guests, including Emperor Maximilian I and Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria. Recently, the hotel was lovingly restored with great attention to detail.

With a view of the picturesque old town

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The historic walls have been preserved, and today’s façade is inspired by copper engravings from 1670, creating a striking contrast with the nearby, distinctive white tower of St. Michael’s Parish Church. From the rooms and the new rooftop pool, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the picturesque old town, with its colorful buildings and lively streets. Antique wooden furniture, historic frescoes, and intricate mosaic floors whisper stories of centuries past.

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Not far from Brixen, perched at 1,800 meters—almost in the clouds—lies Forestis. This secluded retreat, surrounded by dense spruce forests, offers a rare blend of absolute tranquility and deep relaxation. The entire hotel is designed with intentional minimalism, focusing on simplicity and the breathtaking natural surroundings. The spa and restaurant also embrace this philosophy, using natural ingredients sourced from the nearby forests and meadows.

Inspired by the mountain pastures

© Hannes Niederkofler

A hidden gem in Northern Italy is the Tauferer Ahrntal, a tranquil side valley of the Puster Valley, framed by the charming towns of Bruneck and Sand in Taufers. Its mountains offer ideal conditions for hikers and bikers, while the flat valley floor provides peaceful nature experiences. Here, nestled in this pristine landscape, is the new Eco-Aparthotel OLM. Both its design and name are inspired by the region’s alpine pastures—"Olm" is the North Italian word for “Alm” (mountain pasture). Warm solid wood lends the 33 accommodations the cozy charm of a traditional alpine lodge, complemented by contrasting materials such as metal, clinker brick, and stone. Each suite features its own sauna and a freestanding bathtub, and thanks to the expansive glass fronts, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Löffler Glacier or the surrounding 3,000-meter peaks—even from their beds. The best part? The entire complex is energy self-sufficient and CO₂-neutral, powered by a combination of hydropower, photovoltaics, and geothermal energy.

Sustainable architecture

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Clean lines, natural stone, and glass define the design of Eco Hotel Saltus in Jenesien, perched high above Bolzano. A masterpiece of sustainable architecture, its larch wood façade is crafted entirely from locally sourced natural materials. The rooms and suites offer a soothing ambiance with minimalist limestone floors and clay walls. Expansive windows frame breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and mountains. A special highlight is the 17-meter infinity pool, where guests can enjoy a spectacular panorama stretching from the treetops to the peaks of the Dolomites.

Traditional elements

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Hotel Muchele in Burgstall, just five kilometers from the beautiful spa town of Merano, captivates with its unique design. Family-run for three generations since 1952, it's nestled among orchards and vineyards. Here, clean, modern lines blend seamlessly with carefully restored traditional elements, creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.

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The spacious garden area, featuring a large pool and a wellness oasis, offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. In the evening, guests can indulge in a menu featuring homemade Schlutzkrapfen or local game specialties. The hotel’s kitchen focuses on regional and seasonal ingredients, ensuring that guests experience the richness of Northern Italy not only through its design but also through its culinary delights. 

Read more: Architecture in Northern Italy: So Close to Heaven