Photos courtesy of Hotel Castello Labers
Like many of the castles surrounding Merano, records that might reveal the origins of the Castello Labers have been lost. All that is known is that the castle dates from the 11th century and stands on ground formerly part of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire.
The great-grandfather of Signor Neubert, the current proprietor, came from Denmark more than a 100 years ago, fell in love with the castle, and, after hosting a stream of visitors, finally opened the property as a hotel.
Pamela’s Perspective
There’s nothing over the top or fancy here; it’s comfy, like a country estate. That said, the hotel can probably use some updating here and there.
The spectacular region speaks for itself. It’s interesting to note that this area once belonged to Austria; you’ll hear German being spoken and see signs and place names in German as well.
You’ll need a car if you plan on getting into town or exploring the region. The best part of Castello Labers is that you are outside of town, so you’ll sleep well at night.
Hotel Castello Labers
An 11th-century castle
Contact
Via Labers, 25
39012 Merano
(Bolzano)
Tel: ++39 0473 234 484
Fax: ++39 0473 234 146
Hotel website
Fast facts
36 rooms
Double rooms 180–306 euros
Suites: 340 euros
Rates include service, tax, and
breakfast.
Last-minute rates available
Open: mid-April to beginning of November
Getting there
Merano is easily reached by train from Bolzano. From Merano, follow the signs up the hill on Via Scena. The hotel has plenty of parking.
What to do
On site: tennis; swimming
Nearby: hiking; golf; horseback
riding; Castel Tirolo, Castel
Scena
Weddings
Yes. Inquire hotel for details.
Surrounded by vineyards, which are surrounded, in turn, by the Dolomites, the Hotel Castello Labers offers old-fashioned charm and intimacy.
A charming stone stairway (or an elevator) leads to the guest rooms on the second floor. Configured with the castle architecture, guest rooms can be tucked away in the tower or spacious with high ceilings; some have small terraces and some have panoramic mountain views.
Indulge in Tyrolean and Italian cuisine, complemented by estate-bottled wine. You can dine in the gardens or in the dramatic wood-paneled dining room.
Something special
Restored 16th-century chapel on grounds holds weekly mass
Wine from castle’s own vineyards