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United in the Pursuit of Sustainability—the Vitalpina Hotels

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GC Petersplatz

South Tyrol is already regarded as synonymous with quality tourism, and further proof is provided by the Vitalpina Hotels, which are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. Some 30 owner-operated properties have joined forces to offer “vacations close to nature,” with sustainability at the core of their vision. Their philosophy has hardly changed: Outdoor pursuits in the mountains, mindful nutrition, natural well-being, and reverence for the Alpine environment remain the guiding principles to this day.

From a Pioneering Project to an Established Quality Label When

the initiative began, there were three classic pillars: a mindful lifestyle, deep regional roots, and authentic hospitality. Added to these were uniform quality criteria in the areas of activity programmes, nutrition, and wellness offerings.  These include, among other things, certified hiking guides who offer nature-based sports in both summer and winter, with the hotels providing the equipment. In the kitchen, a clear “Slow Food” principle applies: regional, seasonal, partly organic, with a daily vegetarian menu and a specially balanced Vitalpina dish, as well as flexible options for guests with allergies or food intolerances. South Tyrolean quality is also evident in the wines and spirits served, and the Alpine wellness offerings—ranging from traditional treatments to “signature treatments”—are deliberately based on local products such as hay, whey, and herbs. Each property offers at least one Finnish sauna, a steam bath, and either an outdoor or indoor pool or a natural swimming pond. The theme of “sustainability” runs like a common thread through all criteria, from resource-efficient management to giving preference to local producers. What began in 2006 has now grown into a network of 30 family-run hotels and has become synonymous with holistic vacations in the mountains. To mark its 20th anniversary, the group has set its sights on something truly special—not a one-time celebration, but a year-long experience running from September through November 2026. The spotlight is on the Vitalpina Balance Ritual, an exclusive multisensory wellness experience created in collaboration with Team Dr. Joseph as the new flagship treatment, complemented by bespoke in-hotel events that culminate on 14 November with a wine tasting showcasing vintages from five regions in Antholz. The objective is to enhance the visibility of the “Vitalpina” brand—as a springboard for the next 20 years.

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Culinary Experiences at Vitalpina Hotels (© IDM Südtirol Marion Lafogler)

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Summer at the Vitalpina Hotels in South Tyrol (© IDM_Alex Moling)

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Culinary Experiences at Vitalpina Hotels (© IDM Südtirol Damian Pertoli)

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Vitalpina South Tyrol (© Stefano Scata)

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Vitalpina Hotels South Tyrol (© IDM Sudtirol—Helmuth Rier)

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Forest Bathing at Vitalpina Hotels (IDM Südtirol, Alex Filz)

The Mountains as a Stage at the Pfösl

At the heart of this network stands the Green Luxury Hotel Pfösl in South Tyrol’s Eggental Valley, serving as an architectural manifesto of the Vitalpina philosophy. Perched at 1,375 meters above sea level amid 35 hectares of meadows and forests, sisters Eva and Brigitte Zelger—representing the third generation—demonstrate how a transformation from a traditional mountain inn to a modern nature hotel can succeed without severing its roots. Under the motto “Nature Meets Design,” the property marries its traditional main building with contemporary Alpine architecture featuring wood, stone, and glass—from the Alpina Swiss stone pine rooms to the chalets at the edge of the forest and the new Eco Lofts. In 2017, they added 18 new suites in the annex, a 2,000-square-meter “Naturaspa” with eight indoor and outdoor saunas, and a 25-meter saltwater infinity pool offering panoramic views of the Dolomites. Upon check-in, guests immediately sense that the true distinction lies not merely in the architecture, but in the artful way nature is invited indoors—through materials such as Swiss stone pine and stone, through treatments featuring hay, whey, and juniper, and through an activity program that leads guests directly from the front door into the surrounding mountains. This is overseen by the two sisters, Brigitte and Eva, who, as certified hiking and mountain guides, lead personally escorted excursions once a week. Each morning, guests may also choose between dew walks, the Five Tibetans, water aerobics, Nordic walking, and back-strengthening exercises. On Saturdays, there is also a one-hour relaxation session.

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Brigitte & Eva Zelger (@GreenLuxuryHotelPfosl)

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The Pfosl features a inviting outdoor pool.

Between Tradition and Modernity

But even without the activity program, you will discover intimate nooks on the terraces or in the outdoor spaces between the buildings, where each morning the air is perfumed by the fresh aroma of bread from the 300-year-old original bread oven. Here, one may linger until late at night—gazing at the stars and savouring a glass of fine South Tyrolean wine. Alternatively, a herbal tea from the hotel’s own herb garden, where, under the name “Speis und Trank — Teekräuter,” red coneflower, lemon verbena, and woodruff compete to perfume the air. This is also of interest to guests, as every herb that thrives here is also employed in the kitchen under the direction of Markus Thurner. His concept is “Alpine-Mediterranean with a natural touch.” For him, this encompasses not only classic regional specialties such as Schlutzkrapfen, dumplings, Bauernbratl, or apple strudel, but also modern interpretations that he skillfully combines. Guests rave about the breakfast spread, with an array of egg dishes, farm-fresh butter, and freshly picked summer berries, not to mention the thoughtfully paired evening menu.

A boundless nature experience—including golf

. From Deutschnofen, it is a mere stone’s throw to the Obereggen ski area, ideal for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in the winter. In summer, a high ropes course, climbing excursions, and horseback riding—particularly cherished by families—add further allure. Those pursuing wellness and longevity can indulge in a special programme: forest bathing. These guided walks are crafted to foster a mindful connection with nature on a high Dolomite plateau, surrounded by 35 hectares of forest and meadow. Golfers enjoy a 20% green-fee reduction at the Petersberg Golf Club, just six kilometres away and perched on the high plateau of the Reggelberg. The course naturally features some elevation changes—a welcome challenge for the athletic, though golf carts are also on hand for a more leisurely round amid sweeping views of the South Tyrolean mountain ranges. The 18-hole layout is nestled among picturesque meadows and hills, features several doglegs with hidden greens, and rewards strategic shot-making over mere length. When play concludes, be sure to sample the excellent cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.