Those seeking a break far from the hustle, noise, and sprawling modern hotel chains will find a small gem high up on the Ritten plateau: the Mesnerwirt in Oberinn am Ritten. Nestled in the breathtaking Südtirol mountain landscape, this family-run guesthouse offers not only genuine hospitality but also a view that is truly one of a kind.
A cozy guesthouse with eleven rooms
Even the drive up from Bozen is an experience in itself: the road winds steeply upward through narrow, switchback-filled curves. The route demands full attention, not least because some of the local drivers tend to navigate it at a rather spirited pace. But once at the top, every bend is rewarded: the view of the Dolomites is simply breathtaking, making the Mesnerwirt a truly restorative place.
The property itself is not a modern hotel but a cozy guesthouse with just eleven rooms and 26 beds. The rooms are intentionally kept simple: no television, no designer elements, just warm wooden furnishings, plenty of quiet, and in some cases a balcony with spectacular long-distance views. For those who truly want to unwind, this is the perfect place. The bathrooms are particularly charming: clean, well-maintained, and fully functional, yet their nostalgic style transports guests straight back to 1986 (and true to the spirit of the 1980s, a Facebook or Instagram page is nowhere to be found). A delightful trip back in timethat fits perfectly with the authentic character of the house.
A culinary experience that leaves little to be desired
On the culinary front, the Mesnerwirt pampers its guests in its own restaurant. Traditional Südtirol specialties, refined Italian classics, and an in-house pizzeria are all on offer, with host Toni personally pulling perfectly crispy pizzas from the oven himself. It is especially lovely to dine on the sun terrace while the peaks of the Dolomites glow red in the evening light.
Breakfast, too, fits seamlessly with the character of the house: instead of the vast buffets found in large hotels, guests are greeted by a smaller, lovingly arranged breakfast spread with everything one could need: fresh bread, cold cuts, cheese, jam, yogurt, and of course excellent coffee. The selection is not overwhelming, but it is completely sufficient and, in this setting, simply just right.
Genuine warmth and a relaxed atmosphere
The Mesnerwirt was discovered during a transit trip from southern Italy to Germany (and again on the return journey), and it made an immediate impression. The genuine warmth, the relaxed atmosphere, the wonderful food, and the spectacular setting left a lasting impression.
For all those who cherish authenticity and have no need for superfluous luxury, the Mesnerwirt am Ritten comes as an unqualified recommendation: a place to slow down, feel at home, and savor every moment. And it is perfect for a stopover!
Info Gasthof Mesnerwirt
Gasthof Mesnerwirt
Familie Markart
St.-Leonhard-Straße 1
39054 Oberinn, Ritten (BZ), Südtirol, Italy
Phone: +39 0471 602123
Email: info@mesnerwirt-ritten.net
Web: www.mesnerwirt-ritten.net