Rich in history, but never out of date. The most amazing stories are contained in the 29 historic rooms. Which one, though, would you like to write? 

Anton Raffeiner, the third, sporting the most impressive moustache in all of Val Senales, was standing proudly on my porch.

 

He held the key to my heavy, ancient wooden door firmly in his left hand. He seemed to be in a state of shock at his good fortune. In his right hand, he grasped the delicate fingers of his Aloisia; her moss-green eyes had already won over many a Val Senales guy. They studied every crevice and nook, first looking at each other and then at me. I mean, I now officially belonged to them. The historic mountain farm, which has stood proudly in the Val Senales since 1581, was transformed by their successors into a sanctuary for exceptional people from all over the world. But this tale wouldn’t be complete without a challenge or two to overcome…

 

The third Anton rents rooms to adventurous mountaineers.

 

Despite having ability, skill and drive, Anton Raffeiner’s ideal of a successful company with exquisite shoes was never realised. For the full story of why, why not and a complete account of what happened next, click here. It appeared as though all his son and his moustachioed grandfather had built was disappearing into the Rio di Senales. However, as fate would have it, choices had to be made and bravery had to be mustered. Master shoemaker Anton the Third shifted focus. Before long, the workbenches gave way to beds as more visitors arrived, ready to take on the breathtaking glacier peaks of the Val Senales. The rest, as they say, is history. Both, the Raffeiner family’s and mine. If you’re interested, my hotel staff would be happy to tell you about the many adventures, tales of trials and triumphs, mini romances, and significant events that have unfolded here since then. You may be surprised to hear that the fabled Ötzi was found not far from here. 

 

A farm grows from its modest origins. The Oberraindlhof and modernity.

 

The 1970s were a fun time. Young folks sported colourful, wide-leg trousers and sometimes even flowers in their hair, much to the disapproval of the village priest. He still delighted in visiting me in the public bar, indulging in roast, wine card games and occasionally even dancing the night away. My reputation grew well beyond the valley, attracting countless visitors who found comfort in my freshly remodelled rooms. And so, I prospered. An extension and a conservatory were added and in 2006, the Raffeiners gave me a new wooden house as a little brother. A decade later, the hotel added nine more rooms and even a wellness area. From 2019 to 2021, there was a stirring in my midst. My ancient rooms were renovated with the highest care and skill, bringing their timeless elegance back to life. And now here I stand. In the here and now. And let me tell you, I am eager for what lies ahead. How about you?