Some places stay with you – not just as memories, but as a feeling. Karerhof in Nova Levante is one of them. Set at 1,450 metres in the heart of the Dolomites, life seems to slow down ever so slightly. And once you’ve been here, it’s hard not to feel the quiet magic of it all.

Even the drive up is part of the experience. From Bolzano, the road winds through the Eggental valley, with constant views of the striking peaks of the Rosengarten and Latemar. And then, suddenly, it opens up: lush meadows, dense forests – and right in the middle of it all, Karerhof. A working organic mountain farm with just five thoughtfully designed apartments.

This isn’t your typical rustic farmhouse stay. Instead, tradition meets a clean, modern aesthetic. Natural materials, warm wood and a sense of understated design create a space that feels both grounded and refined. And then there are the windows – large, open, almost framing the landscape like a painting.

It’s that feeling of being both inside and outside at once. Of breathing in the mountain air, hearing the birds, the gentle rustle of trees. Here, the Dolomites aren’t just a backdrop – they take centre stage.

As the day slowly begins, a rare kind of stillness settles over the farm. “In the mornings, once I’ve finished working in the barn, I often pause for a moment. Just the quiet sound of the cows chewing – nothing else. That’s when you really feel your heartbeat slow down,” says Bernd, who runs the organic mountain farm while also working as a forester and hunter.

Christine, too, speaks with quiet passion – especially when it comes to her vegetable and herb garden. Growing produce at this altitude is no small feat, but as a trained herbal expert, she embraces the challenge wholeheartedly. Sustainability here isn’t a concept, it’s a way of life: with wood-chip heating, photovoltaic panels and hydropower, the farm operates almost entirely self-sufficiently. It’s a connection to nature you can feel in every detail – and as a guest, you get to enjoy the fruits of it.

At the heart of Karerhof is the cosy lounge. Mornings begin here with a beautifully prepared breakfast, served in front of large arched windows that frame the mountains beyond. Throughout the day, a small honesty bar invites you to help yourself – whether it’s a cold beer or a cup of homemade herbal tea – before settling in with a book by the fireplace.

There’s also a small but thoughtfully designed wellness area: a Finnish sauna, a quiet relaxation room and, once again, those expansive windows that draw your gaze back to the landscape.

The five apartments offer generous space for two to six guests. Scented larch wood, clean lines, open layouts, high ceilings and plenty of natural light create a calm, uncluttered atmosphere. There are no TVs here – and you won’t miss them. The real show unfolds just beyond the windows: the Rosengarten on one side, the Latemar on the other. Instead, books, board games and a carefully curated collection of South Tyrolean cookbooks invite you to slow down and savour the moment.

Mornings at Karerhof unfold at your own pace. You can opt for the bread delivery service – or simply let Christine and Bernd take care of everything. And honestly: it’s worth it. Because here, you can taste the passion in every detail.

Breakfast quickly becomes a daily highlight. Many of the ingredients come straight from the farm: creamy yoghurt, flavourful speck, homemade salami and Kaminwurzen, fresh vegetables in summer and preserved delicacies in winter, crusty bread and a sweet or savoury surprise from the kitchen each day. Add homemade juices and herbal teas, along with organic products from nearby farms – cheese, butter, seasonal fruit – and it all comes together effortlessly.

Evenings are more laid-back, and most guests choose to cook in their apartments – for good reason. Of course, there are excellent restaurants nearby, but there’s something special about staying in. Fully equipped kitchens, farm-fresh produce, meat from the property, vegetables from the garden and a well-stocked honesty bar with local “Latemar” beer and a curated selection of organic wines make it easy to create your own perfect dinner.

And then there’s the setting: as night falls, the stars appear through the skylights above – turning even a simple meal into something quietly unforgettable.

Set in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites, Karerhof places you right where it all begins. At over 1,400 metres, nature isn’t something you plan for – it’s simply there, just outside your door. Summer or winter, the possibilities feel endless.

A hiker’s playground
Trails start directly from the farm, leading through fragrant pine forests, across alpine meadows and up to breathtaking viewpoints. One highlight is the walk to Lake Carezza – a shimmering, emerald-green alpine lake reflecting the peaks of the Latemar. If you continue further, you’ll find yourself wandering through rocky landscapes and eventually rewarded with what might just be the best Kaiserschmarrn in South Tyrol at Latmor Alm.

For families, the “Latemarium” trail adds a playful twist to the mountains, with interactive stations along the way. And then there’s Oberholz mountain hut – not just a culinary stop, but an architectural one too, designed by the same mind behind Karerhof.

Another favourite is the scenic Hirzelsteig along the Rosengarten. Though truth be told, it’s hard to skip the generous breakfast at Karerhof – otherwise, a slow brunch at Laurin’s Lounge, South Tyrol’s highest panoramic terrace, would be a tempting alternative start to the day.

For those seeking more of a challenge, the Dolomites offer plenty: narrow trails through dramatic rock formations, via ferratas and exposed ridgelines – enough to keep even experienced mountaineers inspired.

Cycling with a view
Whether on a road bike, e-bike or mountain bike, the Eggental valley offers the perfect terrain. Ride from alpine hut to alpine hut, tackle iconic Dolomite passes or explore the Latemar region on two wheels. There’s a secure bike depot for charging e-bikes – and if you didn’t bring your own, rentals are available on-site.

A winter fairytale
While the ski areas of Carezza Dolomites and Obereggen – as well as access to the famous Sella Ronda – are just a short drive away, many guests come for something quieter. Snow falling softly, snowshoe hikes through untouched landscapes, sledging runs and peaceful winter walks – this is where winter feels calm and unhurried. And with Christine and Bernd’s local knowledge, you’ll always know where to go.

A touch of city life
If you feel like a change of pace, Bolzano is just 30 minutes away. Stroll through its historic arcades, browse the lively market or settle into a café for a dose of Italian ease. It’s the perfect contrast to the stillness of Karerhof.

Life on the farm
Back at the farm, Bernd regularly offers guided tours, sharing insights into organic farming and animal care. Children can help feed the pigs, collect freshly laid eggs or simply spend time with the animals – while the resident cats are always ready for a cuddle. It’s a place where both young and grown-up guests find something to connect with.

CIN: IT021058B5XC76F4CH

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

All images © Marika Unterladstätter, 2025

Published: 2025 | Last Updated: 22.04.2026