Whoever is looking for a place that brings together everything people love about South Tyrol will find it at Das Dorner. Tucked away in the idyllic garden village of Algund, this is where palm trees, apple orchards, mountains, and South Tyrolean cuisine come together to create a getaway that feels effortlessly complete. Happiness here is simple: kick off your hiking boots after a day in the mountains, sip an aperitivo, and soak up the hotel’s mediterranean vibe.

Das Dorner is a true family affair, owned by the Götsch family since the 1950s. What started as a small guesthouse run by Grandma Antonia, then by Andrea and Egon, is now in the hands of the sisters Stefanie and Carolin. Where once a modest pension stood on the “Dorner Wiese,” you’ll now find a stylish boutique hotel with 40 rooms and suites.

The sisters imagine a stay that feels easy-going and relaxed, all while maintaining a sense of quality and comfort. And they deliver: think tastefully designed rooms, a contemporary spa, and a fresh, regionally inspired kitchen that brings South Tyrol’s flavors to life.

Modern and cozy — that’s the vibe of the rooms and suites at Das Dorner. Guests can choose between the Balance, Relax, Living, and Comfort Suites, plus two Penthouse Suites. Depending on the category, you’ll get views of the garden or the Texel Group mountains, a whirlpool, or even a second bedroom. What they all share is a modern design, high-quality materials, and a balcony or private garden. And thanks to the in-room espresso machine, you can ease into the morning with a coffee in bed as the Mediterranean breeze drifts in through the window.

The undisputed heart of the hotel — at least until late summer — is the lush garden with its sun terrace, outdoor pool, and plenty of places to lounge or curl up with a book. It’s perfect for soaking up the sun, swimming laps, enjoying an aperitivo, or watching the little ones play in the sand and swing under the palm trees. Surrounded by greenery and backed by the dramatic peaks of the Texel Group Nature Park, the setting has a way of making you feel instantly on holiday.

And then there’s the hotel’s standout feature — which quite literally takes things to new heights. Beyond the outdoor pool, the indoor pool with whirlpool, and the Aquana Spa, you’ll find the Sky Spa perched on the 3rd and 4th floors of the newer wing. Here, a panoramic sauna, a serenity lounge, and a rooftop pool with 360° views await. Slip into the perfectly heated water and enjoy a panorama that stretches from orchards and alpine peaks all the way to Merano — a truly unforgettable sight.

The perfect start to the day — and it doesn’t get more local than this. Think dairy from the Algund creamery, bread from the nearby bakery, jams made from South Tyrolean fruits, homemade spreads and muesli, topped off with authentic Italian coffee — all enjoyed on the sun-drenched terrace. The breakfast buffet at Das Dorner truly leaves nothing to be desired: there’s plenty of sweet and savory options, the coffee is spot-on, and the ambience is just right. Just make sure you tear yourself away eventually — the mountains are calling.

After a day of exploring, hungry guests can choose from light afternoon bites — think salads, classic South Tyrolean snacks, or homemade cakes — or save their appetite for the five- to six-course evening menu. Dinner here is a celebration on every plate, with creative dishes made from high-quality ingredients, all under the guidance of Head Chef Evelin Frank. Evelin, a native of the Vinschgau valley, describes her approach as “young, wild, traditional, and open-minded” — and you can taste it. Don’t worry if you’re craving classic South Tyrolean flavors: they pop up on the menu regularly, too.

Thanks to its central location in Algund, Das Dorner is the perfect launchpad for a seemingly endless array of hikes and excursions in the surrounding area.

A classic is the gentle stroll along the Algund Waalweg, which can easily be turned into a full-day adventure with a stop at the highly recommended Restaurant Leiter am Waal, and even extended all the way to the Tappeiner Promenade in Merano. Speaking of Merano: with the South Tyrol GuestPass Algund, given to every guest from the first night, bus rides to Merano are included, making a relaxed city wander and shopping spree effortlessly easy. The bus practically stops right outside the hotel.

It’s almost impossible to list all the must-do excursions in and around Algund. Highlights include the Marlinger Waalweg with a stop at Buschenschank Haidenhof for Törggelen, the scenic hike to Knottnkino above Hafling, a ride on the Aschbach cable car followed by a trek to Vigiljoch, the summit adventure to the Stoanernen Mandl above Jenesien, or the breathtaking hike to Bergl Alm in the still-pristine Schnalstal.

Perhaps it’s a good thing that Algund and the surrounding mountains offer so many options — because honestly, it makes it hard not to find a reason to return to Das Dorner.

ALGUNDER WAALWEG WITH A STOP AT THE LEITER AM WAAL

CITY STROLL THROUGH MERANO

HIKING IN THE UNSPOILT SCHNALSTAL VALLEY

CIN: IT021038A166CISF23

True to the Mountain Hideaways philosophy, every image in this story was captured during our personal stay.

All images © Mela Hipp, 2023

Published: 2023 | Last Updated: 30.11.2025