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Schgaguler Hotel: Essential Design in the Alps

Simple, timeless design and a search for pure essence: this is the Schgaguler philosophy. Located in the enchanting village of Castelrotto in the heart of the Dolomites, this beautiful property seems to be part of the snowy landscape that surrounds it. Step inside the hotel and enjoy the splendor of minimal design.

With the thousand-year-old peaks of the Dolomites reflected on its façade, the Schgaguler Hotel encloses a dual identity: the simplicity of a shelter and the majesty of a design destination. Immersed into the slow living of a small village with centuries-old heritage, the hotel has been a family business since 1986, when Elisabeth and Gottfried Schgaguler founded it as a residence with apartments.

Completely redesigned and reopened in 2018, the Schgaguler represents now a harmonious triangulation of nature, architecture and humanity. The Milanese architect Peter Pichler, in collaboration with Martin Schgaguler, has developed a simple and timeless architectural language that adapts to the alpine landscape of the Dolomites. The aim was to focus on the essential and do without the unneccesary.

An intense white and the architectural peaks designed by Pichler are the first to greet guests. Then come the crystalline transparency of the high windows, which allow the eye to wander off and come back as it pleases. Finally, the natural colors of the outside world, reverberating with life in the essential design of the interiors.

While respecting local context and its surroundings, the strong architectural identity of the hotel follows a contemporary reinterpretation of the Alpine style and plays with vernacular elements such as the typical sloped roof.

The light grey, almost white façade of the house blends tastefully into the surrounding landscape of the Dolomites. The interior does away with any form of complexity and accessories. There is something magical in the essential charm of this place: the crystal-clear light that bursts through the large windows capturing the view of the Dolomites like a picture frame, the immaculate walls that creates a calming atmosphere and the thousand shades of chestnut wood to warm the environment.

The architect has enriched the purist design with a subtle use of colors. The rooms are characterized by mat, earthy tones, combined with light chestnut wood surfaces. Special attention has been paid to the feel and sensual perception of the materials used in the hotel.

Minimal, high-quality furniture has been custom-made by local carpenters and historic design pieces complement the entire interior project. Inside guests can find a wise combination of traditional elements and contemporary culture to create a sense of homeliness and wellbeing.

Some remarkable elements complete this immersive experience. Guest can savor the Alpine-Mediterranean cuisine of chef Rosario Viscome, combining classic Italian specialties with regional South-Tyrolian dishes. The hotel restaurant continues to follow the house philosophy with its large windows, intimate soft light and wooden private nooks. Guests can enjoy the intense flavors of the land, with top-quality seasonal ingredients paired with excellent local wines.

Wellness is guaranteed by the tranquility of the spa areas, which offer the whole spectrum of a mountain retreat relaxation menu, from swimming pools to saunas and massages: the perfect ending for a day in the Alps.