F From Alpine nursing home to Hotel Villa Kastelruth
Over 120 Years of Hospitality
Villa Kastelruth is one of the very first hotels in the heart of Castelrotto, and it looks back on over 120 years of rich, eventful history.
1900 – Castelrotto and its First Visitors
Until the end of the 19th century, tourism in Castelrotto was virtually nonexistent. There was no road into the village, which was still strongly rooted in its rural traditions, and cities like Bolzano and Bressanone could only be reached on foot after a strenuous day’s journey.
It wasn’t until 1887 that the road from Ponte Gardena to Castelrotto was completed – and even then, it remained off-limits to automobiles until 1925, reserved solely for horse-drawn carriages.
With the road came the first visitors: summer guests seeking fresh air and winter sports enthusiasts in search of snow. And thus began the rise of modern tourism on the plateau.
1903 – Opening of the an alpine nursing home “Kastelruth”
The visionary town doctor, Dr. Luis Mayr, saw the potential of this budding tourism and began construction in 1903 on the “Kurpension Kastelruth” (now Hotel Villa Kastelruth), which officially opened in 1905.
The sanatorium offered “electro- and hydrotherapy” as well as various baths and massages for “one, two or more joints,” all in the “dust-free, pristine, ozone-free mountain air, surrounded by peaceful nature and blessed with excellent drinking water,” as described in a 1906 brochure.
1903–1914 – Wellness in the Dolomites
Early brochures also emphasized the warm, family-style atmosphere of the house: “The alpine nursing home “Kastelruth” is a family residence; you’ll find no formalities or hectic hustle here like in the grand hotels – only relaxed, pleasant social life, especially in winter.”
Thanks to cross-country skiing competitions, the Alpe di Siusi was already gaining popularity as a winter destination by the late 1800s. The nursing home helped Castelrotto gain recognition as a high-altitude wellness retreat. Tourism began to flourish, and the transformation from a humble farming village to a renowned holiday destination was underway.
1914–1945
Two world wars and the crisis between them abruptly halted tourism development in the region.
In 1924, ownership passed to Ida Jörg, and in 1941, to the Roman-based “Società Anonima Sacerdoti di San Giuseppe,” a Catholic organization.
1950–Today
The 1950s brought a new era of prosperity. With increasing mobility and a newfound sense of freedom, Castelrotto and the Alpe di Siusi evolved into one of the most beloved destinations in the Alps.
In 1962, the Plattner family from Ponte Gardena acquired the property. In 2013, entrepreneur Anselmi from Bolzano became the new owner and initiated a thorough renovation.
In 2015, the hotel was entrusted to the Demetz family, who have run it with dedication and respect for its storied heritage ever since.
