Gayle and I had a wonderful stay of 3 nights here. Cavallino d'Oro is right on the Main Square…read more(Piazza Kraus) and features a welcoming Tirolean character and superb service by Stefan, Suzanne, and their very attentive staff. This is one of those review situations where Gayle and I could add a 6th Star.
It's easy to be charmed by Castelrotto/Kastelruth, which has an appealing village character, mountains in the background, a traffic free center, centuries of history, friendly and engaging locals, and small town family feel. That last point further emphasized at the nearby central bus stop that was across the street from a school. In the morning when we were heading out, parents were walking their kids to school, while in the late afternoon when we returned, our public SAD bus dropped us off and immediately loaded up with lots of happy children as a school bus to take that group home.
The center of Village action is Piazza Kraus, that includes a cool bell tower (with Chapel), a Catholic Church that seems plain on the outside, but is amazingly appointed and spiritual on the inside, and the Cavallino d'Oro. There were many highlights during our stay including:
- A nicely appointed room, with lots of space to move around or hang out, a good strong hot shower, and comfortable beds.
- An exceptionally good restaurant. We had Dinner there one night on their half-board plan, which was not only "Kick Ass", but a great value for the money. The breakfasts were also excellent and the Dining Room itself almost begs you to stay a little bit longer (especially at our table that had the alpine view).
- A comfortable lounge area where Gayle and I would sit in comfortable chairs, with a drink from the bar, and hang out. A good Wi-Fi signal is available throughout the Hotel, but it almost seemed like a shame to use it in such relaxing and romantic circumstances.
- Free laundry machines in the basement. Unfortunately, we didn't get the chance to use the steam room and sauna just across the hall.
- Great Advice. The Hotel has lots of available literature on tourist choices in the area and Hotel staff were very accommodating with various inquiries. I witnessed one teenage guest who had a question about leather bags being sold as part of the Thursday morning market on the Square. The person at the front desk accompanied her out to several of the booths and helped her decide on a choice. I was interested in buying a cow bell, which I thought was the perfect and authentic Alpe di Siusi/Seiser Alm momento. Stefan was quick to suggest the local Coop, which had a wide variety of these genuine items.
I'm not sure when Gayle and I would have the next chance to visit the South Tyrol of Italy. Maybe we should come during the Winter Holidays featuring the Castelrotto Christmas Market, the appearance of Krampus, or a performance by the Kastelruther Spatzen folk music group? If that happens (God willing), we'll surely be staying at the Cavallino d'Oro.
