Travel & Living

Castel Fragsburg

L’Officiel Arabia goes to Merano to discover one of the hidden gems of Italian hospitality.
Castel Fragsburg in Autumn

In Italy’s Trentino-Alto Adige region, specifically in the mountains of Merano near Bolzano, lies a luxurious retreat known as Castel Fragsburg. Accessing this exclusive getaway requires either a scenic drive up a long mountain road or a helicopter ride, thanks to its helipad. The estate, which spans over 50,000 square meters, includes two main structures: Castel Fragsburg and the medieval castle nearby. Both boast a rich 400-year history and offer stunning views of the surrounding valley. During my visit in May, despite the less-than-ideal weather, the property’s allure was undeniable. The two structures serve different purposes: Casel Fragsburg, formerly a hunting lodge, now operates as one of Italy’s premier hotels, while the medieval castle nearby caters to weddings and private events for up to 130 guests, offering enhanced privacy.

Castel Fragsburg Suite Royale

The Castel Fragsburg impressed me with its meticulous restoration. The family behind the hotel has blended traditional South Tyrolean style with modern touches, avoiding both extreme modernity and antiquity. The estate also features a magnificent rose garden at over 700 meters above sea level, rivaling those of Grasse, and a serene valley with a nearly hidden waterfall.

Castel Fragsburg Panoramic Terrace

The South Tyrolean hospitality at Castel Fragsburg is exceptional, elevating the guest experience with top-notch care and entertainment. A highlight of my stay was the work of the modern alchemist Renate De Mario Gamper, who created the exclusive Fragsburg Beauty Care line and established the Alchemistic Healing Spa Castellum Natura, the first of its kind in the world. This innovative spa combines alchemical traditions with modern science to offer unique energy-balancing treatments.

Castel Fragsburg, The modern alchemist Renate De Mario Gamper

Guests also benefit from a team of skilled masseuses, a heated outdoor pool and spa, and, notably, the gourmet offerings of the Michelin-starred Gourmet Restaurant Prezioso. However, the culinary experiences deserve their own dedicated story, as they are truly remarkable. Stay tuned, but note that Castel Fragsburg is open only from April till November and not the whole year.

 

For more information visit: fragsburg.com and @castelfragsburg