Pergola Residence

Vine-Draped Terraces Overlooking the Dolomites

The owners of Pergola describe it as their passion project, and when you see this small luxury hotel in Italy you'll understand why. Located in the Merano Valley with views of the Dolomites, it was designed in 2004 by innovative Italian architect Matteo Thun, an all-timber post-and-rail construction structured in elegant terraces that cling to the slopes of the hills. It's a striking space, with large south-facing windows and green roofs that contribute to energy saving while looking bold and yet, somehow, perfectly simple.

The architecture was inspired by the spirit of the location. The space is composed of 12 suites and two penthouses, and the architect drew inspiration for its larch-wood facades from the traditional vine pergolas of the surrounding vineyards and the subtle beauty of the neighboring apple orchards. These are spaces that disappear into their surroundings in the best possible sense. 

Follow the curve of the building to see the sections that make up each suite. Each has its own vine-draped terrace, overlooking the rooftops and church spires below, and the dramatic mountains beyond. Inside, they're bright and clean, chic and minimalist, spaces to tuck yourself into and relax. 

Choose from four types of suite, or take the elevator from the underground car park to one of the two penthouse suites. Each is a standalone unit but has access to the hotel's inner courtyard, so you can choose exactly how much privacy you'd like. If you feel like being pampered, make the most of the indoor swimming pool with its Finnish sauna and steam bath, and book a massage, a yoga class, or Pilates. There's a newly completed outdoor pool and small gym onsite, too.

Guests can order bread, croissants and other pastries for breakfast, and the Residence's shop, Little Bottega, offers a selection of breakfast products. Alternatively, explore local eateries recommended by your hosts.

This small luxury hotel in Italy has no rules, no dress code, and no pressure. There's no reception. Instead, guests are greeted in a living room and handed a drink. Sounds like our kind of luxury.

AROUND

Algund (also known as Lagundo) is a commune in South Tyrol, northern Italy, about 25km northwest of Bolzano and just north of Merano. Merano is well known for its spa resorts and the towering mountains that surround it. The region is also known for its apple orchards and vineyards. It boasts excellent wines, including the light red wine Meranese di collina, and beers from the well-known Forst Brewery. The city hosts an annual wine festival, as well as a jazz festival and Christmas market, and there are concerts on the promenade most days during the summer.

Of course, South Tyrol is also known for its extraordinary beauty, making it a great destination for outdoor activities. Merano 2000 is a local ski resort that doubles as a summer adventure playground, with hiking, mountain climbing, tobogganing, and paragliding among the activities on offer.

LOCATION

Algund, South Tyrol, Italy. Nearest airports: Bolzano (35km), Innsbruck (157km) and Verona (178km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT:  Spring through fall.