For many, a stay in the Dolomites is a dream come true, but for Josef Ebner, it was a vision that became reality. Back in 1968, life in the Ladin valleys—where Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures meet—was defined by none other than hard work and agriculture. Despite the challenges, Ebner saw a golden opportunity and bought a small plot of land on a hill in Colfosco. His son Otto took the reins, turning a modest house into a new hotel with his own two hands. Along with his wife, Pia, they built the foundation for what Kolfuschgerhof is today—a family-run retreat in the Alta Badia region where ancestry, nature, and hospitality are at the heart of it all. While the hotel has undergone some very sophisticated makeovers over the years, the core values remain true, making every guest feel like they’ve found their own home in the heart of Alta Badia.
What makes this 78-key stay one of the best in the region is its rooms. Here, nature is brought in, thanks to massive windows and glass doors that frame the surrounding areas. With oak parquet flooring, natural wood details, and warm textiles, each room has a welcoming, rustic feel, but with all the modern amenities one could want. Most rooms come with spacious balconies, complete with incredible views of the Sella Group, Sassongher, Ciampac, or the village of Colfosco. The Tyrolean-inspired decor adds a unique touch, creating a homey vibe that really reflects the spirit of life in the Dolomites. Plus, the rooms come with plush bathrobes, comfortable slippers, and the hotel’s signature natural blackberry essence toiletries.
In terms of food, dining at Kolfuschgerhof is a treat in itself. The main restaurant serves a delicious mix of Ladin and Mediterranean dishes, with everything from fresh pasta and meat to local delicacies. Wine lovers should be sure to check out the hotel’s wine cellar, known as Cianô dal vin, where regional and international wines are available in an intimate setting. For a more laid-back bite or sip, the lounge bar has a great atmosphere (complete with a piano!) and a menu with everything from Ladin-inspired snacks to expertly-crafted cocktails. For those looking for something a little more unique, the Chef’s Table lets guests dine right in the kitchen, with the chef guiding them through each course of a special menu.
Speaking of special, the spa at Kolfuschgerhof is all about relaxation, offering everything needed to unwind and recharge. Without a doubt, the massive outdoor infinity pool is the star of the show with jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites. The warm water, soothing jets, and plenty of space to swim make it an ideal spot to relax any time of day. Inside the hotel, there’s another spacious pool, five saunas with different health benefits, a Turkish bath, a fully-equipped gym, and a hot jacuzzi to melt away any and all stress. Two cozy lounge rooms are lovely for reading or napping, while the waterbed room is the ultimate escape. To top it off, swinging chairs outside one of the lounges are the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the incredible views.
Winter or summer, Kolfuschgerhof is home to tons of activities. In winter, guests can step right outside the hotel and hit the slopes, with easy access to skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing in the Dolomites. The hotel also offers rental gear and ski passes, plus guided tours if you want to explore even more of the snowy landscape. When the weather warms up, outdoor adventures are hard to miss. Hiking, mountain biking, and scenic trails fill the days, while the hotel’s garden blooms with fresh flowers and produce. And, of course, the outdoor infinity pool is open for those who wish to take a dip.
For a change of scenery, Kolfuschgerhof has Col Pradat lodge, which sits a mile high in the Val Stella Alpina. In the summer, it’s a nice post-hiking hideout, and in the winter, it’s a dreamy place to unwind after skiing. Getting there is part of the fun—a quick cable car ride leads straight to the terrace, known as ‘the Eagle’s Nest,’ where the views of the Dolomites are picture perfect. Grab a drink, snack, or head to the adjacent Oysterbar for fresh oysters and bubbly. And for something noteworthy, the ‘L’Ciapel’ fondue is a must—but be sure to book it in advance!
Simply put, Kolfuschgerhof is the kind of place that’s hard to leave.
Top Takeaways
Location: Colfosco, Italy
Rating: Five-star
The Vibe: Mountain chalet meets luxe retreat. The sleek design, gorgeous spa and outdoor pool, and sexy atmosphere pair effortlessly well with the nature views, laid back attitude, and years of history.
Food + Drink: Restaurant Kolfuschgerhof (cozy and intimate with a Tyrolean vibe, offering Ladin and Mediterranean cuisine); ‘Cianô dal vin’ (wine cellar with a focus on regional and international bottles); Lounge Bar (relaxed, casual, perfect for unwinding with a cocktail); Chef's Table (exclusive and interactive)
Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: Without a doubt, the outdoor infinity pool is a highlight. It’s warm, steamy, and has unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery after a day of skiing or hiking–the views literally look like a fake backdrop.
Amenities: Heated indoor pool; Outdoor infinity pool with mountain views; Sauna; Fitness room; Rooftop terraces; Spa; Hiking and mountain biking trails nearby; Lounge areas; On-site dining options; Library
What’s Nearby: The hotel is just steps from the Colfosco ski slopes, along with plenty of hiking and mountain biking trails nearby. The village center is also only a short walk away, so you can pop into town whenever you please.
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? For jaw-dropping alpine views, Passo Gardena is a must-visit. For a more immersive nature experience, take a hike through the Puez-Odle Nature Park–it won’t disappoint.
Rooms: 78 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rates start at $1,200 per night
Closest Airport: Bolzano Airport (BZO)
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