Nestled between palm trees and cypresses, the five-star hotel Castel stands high above the rooftops of Merano, combining luxury and pleasure with a warm, personal atmosphere. Fantastic views over the alpine countryside and plenty of light characterize the elegant and spacious rooms and suites. And while the famed hotel is certainly defined by its gorgeous vistas and fantastic cuisine, the greatest secret to its success remains its owner, the Dobitsch family.

Senior manager Evelyn Dobitsch (center) is supported these days by her son, Daniel, and his wife, Maria. © Königshofer Michael

Mr. Dobitsch, your mother Evelyn has fulfilled a lifelong dream by making the Hotel Castel a success. How did it come about?
We have always been big fans of South Tyrol, and we used to spend our summer vacation at the "Hotel Castel" every year since 1986. We developed a deep connection to South Tyrol, and our parents decided to run a small boutique hotel here. That had always been my mother's dream. Then the owners at the time asked if we would like to take over the "Castel". With almost 90 beds, it was much bigger than my parents had planned. However, because the then manager was prepared to support them in the first few years, they took the plunge and started running a five-star hotel with no prior experience. 24 years later, it proved to be the right decision. As a family, you couldn't imagine a better place to work and spend your lives together.

At the Meranesse Fine Spa, the focus is on relaxation and revitalization of body, mind and soul. © Königshofer Michael

What are the advantages of a family-run hotel?
We prefer to stay in owner-managed hotels ourselves, because they have soul, character and a special charm. It's simply different when you can work on your heart's desire every day rather than simply doing your job. Guests notice that too. They sense the energy and passion with which we run the hotel.

© Königshofer Michael

How would you describe your hotel's concept?
A prime location, excellent cuisine and personal service are its pillars. The cuisine is characterized by the skill and passion of chef Gerhard Wieser, who has been with us for 30 years. He runs our gourmet restaurant, Castel finedining, which only has five tables, and the main restaurant, Àlacarte, which can accommodate up to 90 half-board guests. Together with our 20-strong kitchen brigade, Chef Wieser gives 100 percent in both. Here, guests enjoy a fantastic view over the Merano valley and the surrounding three-thousand-meter peaks, and in summer, with even open the glass façades. This leads us to our location in Dorf Tirol amid vineyards and apple orchards. We have always made the most of our unobstructed view to the south. During the last major renovation in 2021, we made the surroundings more tangible with lots of glass fronts. Last but not least: the character of the house. It comes from us as a family, but is also supplemented by our great team.

Dinner with a view over the Merano valley basin. The culinary delights are no less beguiling. © Königshofer Michael

What is your main focus at the Castel?
Since taking over in 2001, we have lived the three pillars of our values and philosophy. We strive every day to uphold our philosophy, which is the reason many guests come to us, and continuously improve the details. We do this alongside nearly 60 passionate employees.

How would you describe your chef's culinary concept?
His style is Alpine-Mediterranean. The short distance to the Mediterranean and his close contacts with local producers, which he cultivated over decades, help a lot. Maximum quality and freshness are his top priorities. This starts with seasonal produce and ends with the principle of producing as much as possible in-house. The result is harmonious, sincere food that is light without sacrificing intensity. We specialize in home-made pasta, which we produce fresh every day. We could never do without this delicacy.

© Königshofer Michael

What does your Meranesse Fine Spa offer?
Like the entire hotel, our spa benefits from our location on a south-facing slope and the light that floods into the rooms. It creates a positive, mood-enhancing and friendly atmosphere. From the panoramic sauna, the relaxation room and almost all treatment rooms, you have a beautiful view of the landscape. And although our spa is not the largest in terms of numbers, it is very spacious in relation to the number of guests. Every guest has plenty of space and privacy. In summer, you can also enjoy a massage outdoors.

© Königshofer Michael

What are you particularly proud of?
We are proud that, despite some setbacks and discouragement along the way, we have succeeded in becoming an established hotelier family - with loyal employees and great guests who have accompanied us on our journey and continue to do so! What Evelyn started in 2001 is now managed by the second generation. The third generation is growing strong, and it would be great if they could keep the "Castel" in the family. 

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