My loved hotel - the Classic Hotel Meranerhof

Today, I would like to tell you about my favorite hotel, the Meranerhof. Some of what I know comes from stories and the Meranerhof book, while other things I have experienced firsthand:

A family-run business in the heart of Merano: The Meranerhof and the Eisenkeils

In the charming town of Merano, nestled between the impressive Alps and the gentle hills of South Tyrol, lies the Hotel Meranerhof. This traditional house is a place for those seeking relaxation and true connoisseurs.

The beginning of a dream

It was in 1966 that Traudl and Arthur Eisenkeil decided to take over and renovate what was then the Hotel Continental, now the Hotel Meranerhof. Merano was already known as a spa town, and the family saw the opportunity to create something special here. They didn’t just want to run a hotel, but to create a place where guests would truly feel welcome. The first few years were tough, but the dedication and tireless effort of Mrs. Eisenkeil paid off.

A hotel with heart

From the very beginning, it was important to the Eisenkeils that their guests feel at home. Every guest should feel like more than just "a room number." The personal care and warm atmosphere have made the Hotel Meranerhof a popular destination over the years.

Architecture and ambiance

The Meranerhof itself is a true gem. The elegant façade and lovingly designed interiors radiate the charm of bygone eras. Yet the Eisenkeils, especially Mrs. Eisenkeil, managed to blend this historical character with modern comfort. The rooms are individually furnished, each with its own flair and stories. Each year, something new and impressive is added.

A garden to linger

The garden of the Meranerhof is a place of peace and beauty. In the spring, magnolias bloom, and in the summer, roses, offering guests a peaceful retreat. Whether enjoying a cup of coffee, a fine aperitivo — my favorite is the Select Spritz, a mix of Campari and Aperol with Prosecco and a slice of orange 😊 — or a delicious homemade cake, the garden invites you to relax and savor the moment. A highlight is the homemade apple strudel, which keeps many guests, including me, coming back for more.

Culinary delights from the region

When it comes to culinary pleasures, the Eisenkeil family, specifically the Eisenkeil-Waldner ladies who now run the hotel, place great emphasis on quality and local produce. The hotel’s restaurant offers a fine selection of South Tyrolean and Mediterranean specialties. Many ingredients are sourced from the surrounding area, and the dishes are lovingly prepared by the kitchen team led by the long-standing South Tyrolean head chef, Arno Fritz. He is a master of his craft, an artist, creator, and nature lover. Recently, he even started making his own sourdough bread — a must-try!

The wonderful staff

One of the standout features of the Meranerhof is its staff. I fondly recall maître Karl, who always, truly always, had a joke ready; Mrs. Christine, whom I first met as a housekeeper when she cleaned my room, making each day special with her charming manner. She later moved to the hotel’s laundry department, taking the lead there. During every stay, it was important for me to see her for a little chat. Then there’s Rudi, who started as a young commis (assistant waiter) and worked his way up to chef de rang, then to vice maître, and finally to maître after Karl. Richard, with his cheerful spirit and "delicate touch," tends to the garden and helps guests with luggage and other needs. Elisabeth, the gem at reception, is now head of reception, and the "young sprout" Peter Schroffenegger, who has been a long-time concierge and passionate hiking guide at the Hotel Meranerhof. His hikes are something special. With his relaxed, open manner, he is known everywhere, knows everyone, and has a "book of information and stories" in his head. The whole team at the (Classic) Hotel Meranerhof is simply wonderful. Everyone works with great dedication and joy, making each stay unique and special.

A family that connects

The Eisenkeils are the heart and soul of the Meranerhof. Over the years, they have managed to create a special atmosphere that blends tradition and modernity. Above all, the long-standing staff are invaluable. Today, the descendants of Traudl and Arthur run the hotel in its third generation, continuing the family tradition with passion. There’s their daughter Astrid, charming, multilingual, and always diplomatically helpful, and her daughter Beatrix, also called Trixi, young, creative, radiant, joyful, and sportive.

A place of meeting

The (Classic) Hotel Meranerhof is more than just accommodation. It is a meeting place where people from all over the world come together. Many guests, including myself 😊, have become friends, and for me, it’s like a second home. We keep returning to enjoy the special atmosphere and warm hospitality of the Eisenkeil-Waldner ladies.

Conclusion

The Meranerhof and the Eisenkeil-Waldner ladies are a living example of how tradition and passion can create something truly special. A stay at this hotel is not just a journey into the past but also an experience that lingers in memory. If you ever visit Merano, stop by the Classic Hotel Meranerhof — you’ll feel at home right away.

Yours truly,
Mr. Schmid, long-time guest and Meranerhof fan

AE