The prospects for the end of the year are: limitless. Like a valley full of possibilities, surrounded by a harmonious frame of the currently snow-covered Dolomites. At least you have this picturesque view when you book a break in South Tyrol, or more precisely at the Arua Private Spa Villas, maybe even over the turn of the year.
I couldn’t think of a more suitable place in the immediate vicinity that is so good for a New Year’s Eve, for pausing and making new plans. Coincidentally, Arua means – correctly spelled out “A rua”, in the South Tyrolean dialect “calm”, “private space” and also “conscious pause”.
Even before the first snow gently envelops the mountains with a glittering shimmer, I discover the heavenly property in St. Peter on the northern outskirts of Dorf Tirol. The location couldn’t be more perfect: while I watch the busy Merano valley on my lounger by the pool, the craggy slopes of the Dolomites tower up behind me. The majestic Texel Mountains are at my feet.
On request, the Hochmuth cable car takes me directly over the steep terrain to the Muthöfen below the mountain of the same name, the Mutspitze. The train is only a stone’s throw away and takes me to the Meraner Höhenweg, which opens my horizon even further. During the day, a chair lift connects the village of Tyrol with Merano, for those who like it a little more airy.
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The way to Bolzano is not far either. Only about an hour’s drive and I find myself with the hustle and bustle of the Bozen market. At least if I am looking for alternatives to the idyllic tranquility in Arua, these are not far away due to the neighboring valley towns.
Modern design in the middle of the largest olive grove in South Tyrol
The concept of the villas surprises me. Only six luxury residences are waiting for their guests, somewhat hidden at the northern end of Dorf Tirol. Otto Mattivi would have had the building permit for further extensions, but did not use it. That’s a good thing, because the villas fit perfectly into the surrounding mountains and still retain their own character. But the modern buildings don’t quite fit into the rustic South Tyrolean image. Rather, they draw what is likely to increase in this area over the next few years: withdrawn but stylish architecture that will focus on straight lines and natural materials. In any case, it would be desirable.
With the property, entrepreneur Otto Mattivi fulfilled a personal dream.
(Photo: Arua Private Spa Villas)
The Arua is intelligently thought out. I enjoy the warm autumn sun on the terrace all day. In summer, the shady porch protects against too much sunlight without blocking the view.
Otto Mattivi is a visionary entrepreneur who made a personal dream come true with this property. Maybe you know the name from gastronomy. At least that’s how I felt, because Mattivis Restaurant Hidalgo in the nearby Burgstall has been synonymous with hearty South Tyrolean cuisine since the 1980s and continues to delight with its meat and fish specialties. The second restaurant, Aomi, is presenting an exclusive beef tasting, inspired by Mattivi’s Japan trip.
The first Hidalgo suites were created in 2014, and in 2019 the entrepreneur took a new step and opened the Arua as an independent brand. Thanks to his love for nature, guests can now enjoy a 2.5 hectare garden park. Fruit and vegetables are grown here as well as fine wines. Incidentally, what is probably the largest olive grove in South Tyrol is also part of the property. The Arua area practically compresses all of South Tyrol on a slope.
While in autumn you could walk or even climb for hours through the vineyards, in snowy winter you can best enjoy the heated outdoor pool. Comfortable 28 degrees ensure that the cold winter air won’t harm you, but that you experience a unique outdoor experience in the water.
The environment offers opportunities for relaxation in both summer and winter.
(Photo: Arua Private Spa Villas)
The room prices also surprise me positively. The rooms cost between 400 and 450 euros per person. You might think that this is a hefty sum, but the suites with their up to 180 square meters in this fantastic secluded location are more than worth the price. My tip: the Villa Vitris. It comprises 140 square meters, two bedrooms and the best is in front of the suite – comfortable loungers on the loggia, a private sauna and a small pool with whirlpool function.
If I wanted to, I can prepare South Tyrolean specialties myself in the fully equipped kitchen. But I reserve a table at the Hidalgo. An absolute must. By the way: The name of the suite says it all, Vitris means “grapevine”. Two of the most popular South Tyrolean grape varieties are grown right in the Arua’s garden: Pinot Noir and Sauvignon. Of course, also available on the Hidalgo’s wine list.
Arua is also a Member of Design Hotels. The hotel achieves their high quality standards or even exceeds them. I know the company well, as I was on the Supervisory Board here for three years. And so, from my point of view, the villas do not actually need an extra marketing platform.
The Merano region in winter
A snowy stay in the mountains is an absolute highlight for all winter sports enthusiasts. When the Mediterranean sun provides enough warmth and vision and I relax in my private spa villa after an active day in the snow, this comes very close to paradise.
You can prepare South Tyrolean specialties yourself in the fully equipped kitchen.
(Photo: Arua Private Spa Villas)
I recommend the Merano 2000 ski area to skiers. The 40 kilometers of slopes are excellently groomed and easily accessible from Avelengo by gondola. The winter season lasts until March 20th and started in early December. In the Panorama Bistro or the Piffinger Köpfl Berggasthof you can combine a sporty winter day with hearty South Tyrolean delights.
If you want a little more, then book the “Therme & Ski” combination ticket. The card is valid for four hours on the slopes. Then relax for three hours with the same ticket in the Merano thermal baths. The water and sauna world of the thermal baths are warmly recommended in winter when your private spa in the Arua is too small for you. However, the expansive view is reserved for the Arua.
A well-known hiking area, which is also easily accessible in winter, is located directly behind the hotel. Take the train directly to the Meraner Höhenweg. The Tirol Castle, a medieval hill castle that now houses a museum, and impressive earth pyramids are within walking distance of the Arua.
Conclusion: modern South Tyrol to refuel
South Tyrol has many facets, in Arua I discover a modern variant of the oasis of calm. In particular, the generosity of the rooms, the view and the loving service are more than inspiring at this location. The suite concept is well thought out and, thanks to its size and the surrounding mountain slopes, offers exactly the freedom and tranquility that I had hoped for. I’ll be back for sure, maybe even in the winter season.
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