Residence Grand Hotel Carezza

The view from our Superior Apartment was breathtaking, easily worth the stay on its own. We were warmly welcomed by Giandomenico, and the Grand Hotel looks like a storybook building in a perfect spot near Lake Carezza. It’s easy to reach from Bolzano by public transport, and the on-site mini-market was a lifesaver with all the essentials, especially since the attached restaurant was closed during our late September visit. There’s a strong historic character to the place. Floors creak, and the long, dark hallways use motion-activated lights, which can feel a bit spooky, though we found that part of its charm. The hotel seemed understaffed for its size. The people we met were lovely and helpful, but we only saw two staff members during the whole stay, which added to the quiet, sometimes deserted atmosphere. It’s a memorable place if you enjoy history and a view that leaves you speechless, with some old-world quirks.

Giandomenico and the staff were wonderful, and the clean, spacious apartments worked perfectly for our family. We loved having a little kitchenette where we could make breakfast and a small meal. We loved the whole stay!

As a solo female traveler, I found Giandomenico’s warm welcome and constant smile made the stay especially comfortable. The team was always supportive and ready with information or directions. Grand Residence is a great choice whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, and it works for short or longer stays. The studios are well equipped, the rooms are clean, and the heating is reliable, which you’ll need in this region. You don’t need a rental car: three hiking trails start about a 10-minute walk away, and the bus stop is right at the front gate. It’s easy to get to Lake Karersee (Lago di Carezza), the suspension bridge (Hängebrücke Karer See - Ponte Sospeso), or the panoramic bench near the Alps (Panchina Panoramica), with other mountain trails nearby for more adventurous hikers. There’s also a very good restaurant, a pizzeria, and a mini market close by.

We had a wonderful stay in May 2022. It’s a beautiful place, and Giandomenico’s stories about its history were amazing. He couldn’t have been more helpful. There are lots of great walks nearby, and the place is so beautiful. The bus ride from Bolzano is stunning. We tried to book again this year but couldn’t get in because it was full from our time share. This year we’ll buy a weekly travel pass.