Framing panoramic mountain views, this hotel redefines alpine living with effortless elegance while immersing its guests in nature and comfort.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Italy’s Valle Aurina, Hotel Bühelwirt, member of The Aficionados––a travel resource that effortlessly fuses luxury, design and authenticity––stands as an eco-conscious retreat where contemporary design meets the raw beauty of the Alps. With the imposing Großvenediger peak as its sentinel, this fully organic and sustainably built hotel is a masterpiece by renowned local architects Alexander and Armin Pedevilla.
Their signature sensitivity to the landscape and sustainability is evident in every aspect of Bühelwirt’s design, which seamlessly integrates a new, bold timber structure with the existing 1910 boutique chalet. Wrapped in blackened larch wood, the hotel’s striking silhouette pays homage to the region’s traditional chalets, exuding both shelter and sophistication.
The architecture is a visual dialogue between modernity and tradition, where angular lines and strategically placed panoramic windows frame cinematic views of alpine forests, rolling meadows, and snow-draped peaks. Merging the lovingly preserved original chalet—affectionately known as “Old Gal”—with a contemporary, minimalist addition, Bühelwirt embodies the essence of South Tyrolean heritage with a refreshing, design-forward perspective.
Inside, the interiors reflect a restrained yet warm alpine aesthetic. Local larch wood dominates, providing a natural counterbalance to putty-grey walls, copper lighting accents, and soft Ladin textiles in earthy greens. Balconied window alcoves invite guests to unwind, offering cozy nooks to take in the awe-inspiring scenery. This meticulous attention to detail extends to custom-designed furnishings, such as Harry Thaler’s copper lamps, crafted from the region’s historic mines, and handcrafted wooden pieces that blend nostalgia with modern functionality.
This member or The Aficionados’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond its architecture. Every element of the guest experience is thoughtfully curated with an eco-conscious ethos. Rooms are stocked with locally sourced South Tyrolean beauty products, fresh spring water, and organic, farm-to-table cuisine. At the hotel’s restaurant, simple, honest flavors take center stage, with dishes crafted from seasonal produce, biodynamic ingredients, and the rich culinary traditions of the Ladin Alps.
Guests can begin their day with a wholesome breakfast featuring homemade breads, artisan cheeses, and alpine honey, while evenings unfold with a selection of antipasti, regional wines, and indulgent mains prepared with a contemporary twist. Overseen by owner and skilled sommelier Matthias Haller, the wine selection is as thoughtful as the cuisine, celebrating the finest vintages of the region.
The wellness experience at Bühelwirt is equally immersive, with a panoramic sauna and a serene relaxation area that offers uninterrupted mountain views. Guests can indulge in holistic treatments such as honey or herbal stamp massages, featuring products from the renowned South Tyrolean brand Trehs. For those seeking an aquatic escape, complimentary access to the nearby Acqua Cascade spa complex provides an array of thermal pools, saunas, and a natural bathing pond, perfect for unwinding after a day of alpine adventures.
Whether exploring the pristine landscapes of the Rieserferner Ahrn Nature Park, skiing the slopes of Klausberg and Speikboden, or wandering through cultural gems like Taufers Castle and Zaha Hadid’s Messner Mountain Museum, Hotel Bühelwirt offers an unparalleled blend of design, nature, and sustainability. A true sanctuary where contemporary comfort meets alpine tradition, it invites guests to embrace the art of slow living in the heart of the Italian Alps.
About The Aficionados
Founded by Iain Ainsworth, THE AFICIONADOS is a travel resource for those seeking fabulous recommendations and accommodation that effortlessly fuses luxury, design and authenticity. It comprises over 90 hotels, designer homes for private hire and guesthouses, from all across Europe and a fabulous outpost in New York, the United States, together with a selection of over 100 creatives who round out the offer of this culture and lifestyle emporium for travel and good living. The Aficionados also publishes six printed magazines: Blueprint Beauts, Farmhouse Fabulous, Casa Gorgeous, Neu Heritage, Alchemists of Italy and Eclectic Rebels.
