At Boutiquehotel Solea in South Tyrol, the light drifts across the mountain slopes, lingers on the water and slowly gives way to darkness…
Coming from Merano, it seems as though all you have to do is follow the sun to reach Solea Südtirol. Perched above the spa town in Schenna, the boutique hotel is close to the light — and, at the same time, never far from the darkness. It is a captivating interplay that reveals a radiance all its own.
Where the Sun Casts Its Shadow
How fitting that the hotel Solea bears this name: almost like a quiet homage to the sun — il sole — which so generously embraces Schenna, casting its golden glow across the gentle slopes and far down into the valley.
And where there is light, there is also shadow. It becomes a poetic interplay as the darkness of palm leaves dissolves into the still waters of the pool, a veil of shade drifts through the curtains, and a quiet retreat takes shape beneath the parasol.
In Balance
The interior captures this contrast in its own harmonious way. Anthracite-coloured walls, dark leather in the bar and grey stone flooring in the entrance area create a grounding foundation. Against this backdrop, lighter accents stand out all the more: the warm glow of candlelight, a yellow chandelier, carefully placed mood lighting. And somewhere in between, the gentle resonance of the gong from a singing bowl meditation, drawing the atmosphere inward for a moment, deeper still.
Those who come here come to let go. Perhaps together, like yin and yang, finding their fullest balance only in harmony with one another. The Luxury All Inclusive concept follows the same philosophy: it takes away everything in between. No calculating, no organising, no weighing up options — just the certainty that everything has been taken care of.
During the day, take slow, unhurried laps in the refreshing saltwater pool. Later, feel the warmth of the panoramic sauna, your gaze stretching far beyond the horizon. And perhaps a Spritz to round things off?
And Then the Sun Goes Down…
With a multi-course dinner served on the inviting terrace, the wine begins to flow. Fine wines grown on the sun-kissed slopes around Merano and brought to perfection in dark cellars — including those from the nearby Schloss Rametz winery, run by the Schmid family. Look closely and you’ll discover subtle nods to wine throughout the hotel: loungers made from wine barrels in the spa, a cast-iron outdoor shower adorned with vine leaves, and wine crates serving as room nameplates.
At night, the games begin. Il capo Hannes Illmer swaps his casual fit for a tuxedo, transforming from charming host into a seasoned croupier.
One more card, or better to hold? At the blackjack table, 21 feels tantalisingly close and with it comes the question of how much luck to leave to the moment. Win or lose? In the end, both are part of the game.
Conversations unfold. Stars pierce the deep blue night sky. Later, everyone meets again at the bar. Or retreats to a quiet table with a ruby-red Negroni, carrying the sun in their heart.
photos: Nicolo dalle Molle, Daniele Paternoster
