Hotel Scherlin

Hotel Scherlin is a family-run 3-star hotel perched at 1,400 metres above sea level in a peaceful hillside setting, approximately 5 km from the centre of Ortisei in Val Gardena. The location is special — surrounded by meadows and forest, with sweeping views across the valley to the Sella massif, the Langkofel and the Seceda. Rooms are spacious and well kept, most with balconies that make the most of that panorama, and the atmosphere throughout is warm and unhurried.

For a 3-star property, the facilities punch well above their weight. A panoramic indoor pool overlooks the valley, there is an outdoor pool for warmer days, and the spa area includes a whirlpool, sauna and Turkish bath. Up top, a sky terrace with an observation tower is the place to be for an afternoon aperitif with a full Dolomite backdrop. The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness centre for anyone looking to stay active off the slopes.

Dining is half-board and done properly. Mornings start with a generous breakfast buffet, and evenings bring rich spreads of South Tyrolean and Italian cooking — salads, pasta, meat or fish, and desserts. Families are well catered for too, with a playground right outside the dining room. The free ski bus stops directly outside the hotel, connecting guests to the cable cars in Ortisei and the Alpe di Siusi area, with the Sellaronda and the wider Dolomiti Superski network all within easy reach.