Romantic & Family Hotel Gardenia

The Hotel Gardenia's quaint, traditional chalet architecture, carved wooden balconies bursting with colorful flowers, and playful candy-shop awning give the property's exteriors an appealing and inviting character. Inside, this family-run hotel mixes upscale yet homey interiors with the odd splash of old-school elegance in the form of antique furnishings, polished marble, and glass chandeliers. Outside, its small, tidy grounds are surrounded by the spectacular mountain scenery of the Dolomites, which are blanketed in snow during the winter months. The peace of the Gardenia's tranquil countryside surrounds, however, is occasionally broken by the squeal of a child enjoying the activities on offer at this family-oriented hotel.

The Gardenia is located in the Plan da Tieja area of the Val Gardena ski resort in Italy's South Tyrol Dolomite Mountains. Its location in the Puez–Odle Nature Reserve means some incredible hiking opportunities during the summer, while the hotel shuttle transports guests to the famous Sella Ronda ski slopes nearby during the winter months. The nearest railway station is in Bolzano, as is the nearest airport, both of which are about an hour's drive away.

The hotel has 34 rooms, all of which are largely decorated in a fresh, simple style awash with pine and regal-themed flourishes. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs, DVD and MP3 players, and free Wi-Fi, while some suites also feature kitchenettes, whirlpool tubs, and even steam rooms. Bathrooms are clean and contemporary and include hairdryers, ample toiletries, robes, and slippers. Many bathrooms also have TVs. Most rooms also open up to balconies or terraces with great views of the area.

The hotel's mountain village-styled Wellness & Beauty Oasis spa provides guests with a range of treatments and has a traditional Tyrolean sauna and a steam room. The well-maintained garden looks out over the mountains and contains a small, circular pool and a whirlpool hot tub surrounded by lounge chairs. Kids have access to indoor and outdoor play areas as well as a kids' club with all-day activities to keep them occupied. The hotel's restaurant serves locally influenced fare in a salon with knotty pine booths with carvings of curlicues and grapes and a few large crucifixes hanging on its walls. A free shuttle takes guests to ski lifts and free parking and free Wi-Fi are also available on-site.