Hotel Plank

The location is wonderful: just at the edge of town, it’s quiet, the views are unobstructed, and all you hear are cowbells. It was an easy walk to the main town area, the bus station, and the gondolas, and the ride up to Passo Rolle took about 15-20 minutes. After a long trek on public transport to San Martino, we were so happy to find they’d upgraded us to a suite with a balcony and mountain views. We’ve traveled a lot, and this was our fourth trip to Italy, but Hotel Plank was easily our favorite place to stay. The hospitality was the biggest reason. Every interaction was warm. They helped with the bus schedule, dinner recommendations, and laundry, and always remembered our room number and greeted us by name. One tiny detail meant a lot: I used a couch pillow because mine felt flat, and housekeeping had left a second pillow for me when we returned from our hike the next day, without me asking. We loved our stay and can’t wait to come back someday. GRAZIE MILLE!

We didn’t stay overnight, but came by twice for evening drinks. The bar area is beautiful, and Naomi is wonderful.

Dinner had a wide choice, usually served as a three-course menu, and the staff were friendly. The atmosphere was cozy too. The hotel is in a great spot, just 300 m from San Martino’s biggest ski resort. You can also take the ski bus, with a stop only 100 m away.

I’d give the hotel three stars, then add another for the staff, from the waiters to the older and younger owners. They were kind and helpful throughout, and made us feel welcome. The renovation deserves a star too: it refreshed the hotel while keeping the building’s old spirit alive. It’s close to everything but set away from the crowded village center. The food was very good, varied, and more than enough. That brings my rating to five stars. I highly recommend it.