Rupert Parker Explores The Stunning Mountain Scenery Around The Hotel Granbaita Dolomites.
In my opinion, the Dolomites boasts the best mountain scenery in Europe – you only have to take a few steps and the vista changes. And the Hotel Granbaita Dolomites makes an excellent base to start that journey. Set in the centre of Selva di Val Gardena, beneath the jagged skyline of the Dolomites, this five-star family-run hotel combines polished Alpine luxury with the warmth of a traditional South Tyrolean mountain inn.
The first impression is one of wood, stone and glass, softened by fires, comfortable seating and the understated glow of good lighting. Nothing feels excessive. Instead, the Granbaita has created a sophisticated version of Alpine hospitality, where contemporary design is carefully balanced with the traditions of Val Gardena. The surrounding mountains, of course, do most of the decorating.
The hotel has been in the hands of the Puntscher–Perathoner family for generations, and opened in 1962. Over the years major renovations transformed the property while retaining its family character. Today, the result is a hotel that feels both established and thoroughly modern. The family philosophy is particularly evident in the staff, many of whom have been with the hotel for years.
Location is one of Granbaita’s strongest cards. Selva di Val Gardena is at the head of the Val Gardena valley, surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Dolomites. From the hotel it is easy to stroll into the village, while walkers and skiers have an extraordinary playground on the doorstep.
STAY
Hotel Granbaita Dolomites offers a total of 56 rooms and suites, all generous by alpine standards. The design follows the same philosophy as the public areas, combining natural wood, stone, muted colours and contemporary furnishings. Large windows frame the surrounding peaks, making the landscape an ever-changing piece of art.
We stayed in a Dolomites Suite, its 55 m² large enough for four people. This Suite has a spacious bedroom and a separate living room, plus two bathrooms. Wood dominates, but this is not a rustic mountain chalet. Everything is clean-lined and contemporary, with a solid wood floor, and, most importantly, a double balcony facing the mountains.
In the living room, there’s an electric fireplace and 2 separable sofa beds with mattresses at one end. At the other are table and chairs with Nespresso machine and kettle plus mini bar and an ample supply of bottled water.
The bathrooms are furnished with WC, bidet, hairdryer, shower, double washbasins and, most importantly a full-size bathtub. Slate is the theme here, both on the floors and the walls and a motion sensor lights it up when you visit at night.
EAT
Food is a major part of the Granbaita experience. Breakfast sets the tone with an impressive buffet with hot dishes, cured meats, homemade cakes and pastries. It prepares you for a day in the mountains and please abandon any thoughts of eating lightly.
Dinner combines South Tyrolean traditions with more contemporary European cooking. Half-board guests can choose between menus and à la carte dishes, while the hotel also caters for food allergies and intolerances. The wine list places a strong emphasis on the region, allowing guests to explore the wines of Alto Adige alongside their food.
For a more ambitious culinary experience there is the Granbaita Gourmet Restaurant. This is the hotel’s intimate fine-dining option, with just seven tables and a more elaborate tasting-menu approach. Its glass surroundings allow the mountains to remain part of the experience even when the focus is firmly on the plate.
The fully stocked semi-circular bar offers nightly entertainment. The wine cellar stored more than 400 fine wines, all produced in the region. It’s a charming spot to appreciate the delicate alchemy and distinctive taste of these local wines.
RELAX
The Savinela Spa is almost reason enough to book. The wellness area is extensive, with indoor and outdoor pools heated to 32°C, whirlpools, steam rooms and seven different saunas. There’s also a salt grotto, fitness room and a long list of massages and beauty treatments. After a dip in the outdoor pool, I enjoy a particularly soothing massage.
OUTDOORS
Selva is one of the great bases for exploring the Dolomites. In winter, skiers have access to the vast Dolomiti Superski network and the celebrated Sella Ronda circuit. In summer, the same mountains become a playground for walkers and cyclists with the hotel offering free guided E-MTB and walking tours every day of the week with their local guides. E-bikes, walking poles and backpacks are supplied free of charge.
Granbaita Dolomites offers spacious rooms, spectacular views, an exceptional spa and excellent food. It’s perfect for those mountain travellers, like me, who want to be pampered after an exhilarating day on the tops. And, even better, every day they’ll show you somewhere different in their great outdoors. It’s definitely something to Shout About.
Tell Me More About Hotel Granbaita Dolomites
Hotel Granbaita Dolomites Str. Nives 11, 39048 Selva di Val Gardena, Italy.
info@hotelgranbaita.com
Prices start from €550 per night for two people including half-board
SkyAlps flies direct from London Gatwick to Bolzano, with free snacks and drinks on board. From there it’s a 40 minute transfer to Selva.
The Gatwick Express is the only non-stop service from London to Gatwick Airport, departing every half hour from London Victoria taking just 31 minutes.
Eligible standard-class tickets come with discounted fast-track security and premium airport lounge access.
