South Tyrol Hotel: My cozy return to Maraias

south tyrol hotel with the mountains in the background - glowy

My first two visits to Maraias – Luxury Suites & Apartments took place during warm, sunlit summers—trips I fondly recounted in my earlier articles. Both times, I left with a renewed sense of calm, captured by the lush meadows and friendly goats that roamed the property. Yet, I couldn’t help wondering how this alpine retreat would transform in winter. Would the farm-to-table delights taste even cozier with snow outside? Could the saltwater infinity pool feel as comforting on a crisp morning? This winter, though, I ventured back to see how this South Tyrol Hotel transforms in the colder months. Little did I know I’d also get to explore Watles ski area, and Schöneben-Haideralm—two fantastic spots that add a whole new layer of Alpine fun.

Curiosity finally got the best of me—so here I am, back at Maraias, this round with winter in full swing. And let me tell you: seeing the Vinschgau Valley draped in white has revealed an entirely new facet of a place I already adored.

» Maraias Burgusio Revisited: An Adventure in South Tyrol
♥ On the move to Maraias Burgusio

A Familiar Welcome, A New Season

The moment I stepped through the doors, Andrea at the front desk greeted me with the same warmth as always. She remembered Buddy, my dog, and even asked about our last summer stay. Little touches like that are why you keep coming back. They make this South Tyrol hotel feel less like a lodging option and more like a second home.

Summer Memories vs. Winter Charm

In summer, Maraias brims with wildflowers and bright, sunny meadows. I vividly remember watching goat s in the fields, picking up fresh cheese from the mini-shop, and heading out for day hikes in short sleeves. Fast-forward to winter, and the entire landscape is as still and peaceful as a postcard. The shift from the vibrant scenery to a serene winter wonderland is magical, especially knowing the Watles ski area and Schöneben-Haideralm are just around the corner.

Why Winter Feels So Special

Cozy Evenings: Curling up in an apartment with homemade deer ragout, or sipping hot broth that Buddy and I both love.
Snow Adventures: Skiing at the Watles ski area and Schöneben-Haideralm—a new twist on the outdoor fun I experienced in the warmer months.
Slow Travel at Heart: The hush of winter encourages an even calmer pace, giving me all the time in the world to bask in the spa or wander the property with Buddy.

Soft winter light illuminating the snowy farmland at Maraias, with deer tracks visible in the foreground.

The Perfect Stop en Route to Lago di Garda

Driving from the Netherlands to Lago di Garda can be long, but Maraias – Luxury Suites & Apartments consistently breaks up the trip perfectly. A short break turned into a revitalizing mini-holiday—proving that a South Tyrol hotel in Italy can do wonders for a tired traveler.

Suites or Apartments: A Choice for Every Traveler

Though I’ve often stayed in the main hotel, this time I opted for one of the two apartments further down the property. Picture this: waking up to see fallow deer ambling past your window, goats bleating in the distance, and sheep grazing peacefully. The apartment’s kitchen came fully stocked with the essentials—towels, cleaning supplies, even dishwasher soap—so I didn’t have to run out for basics. It felt like a homey extension of a South Tyrol hotel, just with more nature and privacy.

A Thoughtful Welcome & Eco-Friendly Touches

From the moment I arrived, I noticed how Maraias focuses on small details. Bathrobes and towels are ready for you, but flip-flops? Only on request, to reduce waste—a tiny but meaningful gesture. I love how this hotel in South Tyrol merges sustainability with comfort. After all, living amid animals and farmland fosters a deeper appreciation for responsible hospitality.

The soft glow of late afternoon sun over snowy hills in the Vinschgau Valley, epitomizing South Tyrol’s slow travel appeal.

Slow Travel Elevated: Five Winter Days of Pure Calm

Maraias was always a proponent of slow travel, but winter amplifies that ethos even more. Gone are the bustling summer hikers; instead, there’s a peaceful hush over the valley. Each morning, I took a leisurely stroll around the property with Buddy before settling in for a hearty breakfast. Some days, I lingered in the infinity pool or ventured out for a half-day ski. Others, I simply read by the window, glancing up now and then to see the farm animals carry on their day.

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Savory Delights: Farm-to-Table in Any Season

A Farm-Fresh Start to Your Day

One of the most delightful perks of staying at here is the breakfast spread—a true celebration of local ingredients. Mornings here might include eggs from the farm’s own chickens, homemade jams, artisanal breads, and seasonal fruit. If you prefer to dine in your suite or apartment, opt for the “breakfast box” delivery service and enjoy a laid-back start to your day. Whether you’re fueling up for a ski session at Watles or simply savoring the slow-travel pace, breakfast at Maraias feels like an authentic taste of South Tyrol from the very first bite.

Hearty pancakes from the Maraias farm, served in the apartment kitchen.

Hearty homemade salmon and avocado toast from the Maraias farm, served in the apartment kitchen.

One of my favorite parts of staying in a South Tyrol hotel is the local produce—and Maraias absolutely delivers. Mornings kicked off with a hearty breakfast buffet (or a breakfast box delivered right to your apartment) featuring eggs from their own chickens, cheeses made from the goats and sheep on the property, and various homemade breads. The highlight? You can pop into their small shop to buy the same farm-fresh items for your own cooking or for easy dinners.

Heat-and-Eat Meals for a Cozy Night In

Even better, Maraias offers homemade meals you can pick up (frozen), and then reheat in your apartment whenever. Soups, ragouts—are packed with flavor. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re too relaxed (or too lazy, let’s be honest) to dine out. I tried a fellow deer ragout that and their chicken broth. This blend of farm-to-table convenience makes the entire experience a cut above any standard South Tyrol hotel dining.

Maraias has introduced a neat system where you simply scan a QR code in your room or apartment to browse a list of add-on experiences. Some examples:

Dumpling Making (“It’s Dumpling Time” – €3.20): Learn to craft fluffy dumplings using local ingredients.
Mindfulness Massage (€74): Sink into a state of bliss while tension drifts away.
Winter Carriage Ride: Take in the quiet beauty of Langtaufer Valley from a horse-drawn carriage.

Relaxing at the Spa & Welness

The saltwater infinity pool at Maraias, with steam rising as snow-capped mountains frame the horizon. South Tyrol Hotel

Of course, no luxury hotel in South Tyrol is complete without a rejuvenating wellness area. At Maraias, you can float in a heated infinity pool—salt water, mind you—where the boundary between indoors and outdoors seems to vanish. Swim through a passage into open air, gazing across the Ortler mountains in the distance. After a day of exploring local ski areas like Watles and Schöneben-Haideralm, nothing beats gliding into this pool under a canopy of stars.

(This photo was made on my summer trip!)

Sauna & Rest Areas

When your muscles crave extra warmth, head to the Finnish sauna or the steam bath. Between sessions, I lounged in the panoramic rest room, sipping herbal tea and taking in the mountain views. If you need a “mental reset,” this is the place to do it.

Skiing at Watles & Schöneben-Haideralm

Ski at Watles & Schöneben-Haideralm

Though I love snuggling up in my apartment, the nearby slopes are irresistible. The Watles ski areaoffers well-groomed trails perfect for families or intermediate skiers, while Schöneben-Haideralm challenges those itching for more advanced runs. Both are just a short drive from Maraias, meaning you can spend the morning skiing and still be back for an afternoon soak in the pool—talk about the best of both worlds.

Watles Ski Area

Distance: ~10 minutes’ drive.
Lift Pass: from €56/day.
Why Go: Family-friendly runs and panoramic Alpine views.

Tip: Add in some Watles skiing in the morning, then return to Maraias for a soothing dip in the saltwater pool. It’s the perfect winter day.

Schöneben-Haideralm

Distance: ~10 minutes’ drive.
Lift Pass: ~€55–€62/day.
Highlights: Steeper slopes, plus breathtaking lake views near Reschensee.

Snowshoeing & Cross-Country | South Tyrol hotel

If skiing isn’t your thing, the area’s cross-country trails and snowshoe paths wind through pristine forests and open fields. The staff can point you to guided snowshoe tours or local rental shops. The air is crisp, the landscape serene, and every turn might lead you to another jaw-dropping panorama. We took some of the cheeses, sausages and toast from the shop and also took some drinks with us to make a picnic.

Why Maraias is My Go-To South Tyrol Hotel

Perfect Stopover: Whether en route from the Netherlands to Lago di Garda, or just craving an Alpine escape, Maraias fits any plan.
Farm Ambience: Deer, goats, sheep—nature at your doorstep, with the comfort of a modern suite. Another new winter memory was seeing the deer enclosure with Simone, who manages their care. When everything’s blanketed in white, the deer stand out against the snow.
Note: You can sometimes join Simone for a feeding session or a behind-the-scenes look, a real treat if you’re traveling with family or just love wildlife encounters.
All-Inclusive Apartments: Kitchens are fully equipped, from dishwasher tablets to local goodies.
Farm-to-Table Meals: Homemade dishes or fresh produce from their small shop, all easily accessible. Pro tip: make your own picnic!
Relaxing Wellness: Infinity pool, sauna, and panoramic rest rooms for the ultimate wind-down.
Winter Sports Galore: Skiing at Watles or Schöneben-Haideralm, plus cross-country and snowshoe options.

After five days of slow living, it felt like I’d been gone two weeks. The combination of cozy apartments, farm-fresh dining, and a peaceful spa reminded me why I keep coming back to this South Tyrol Italy hotel. If you’re seeking a balance of Alpine luxury, heartfelt hospitality, and authentic farm life, Maraias – Luxury Suites & Apartments may just become your new favorite stopover—or your next destination for a full-blown winter holiday.

Practical Tips & Final Thoughts | Maraias – Luxury Suites & Apartments

Book Early: Apartments go fast, especially in winter.
Eat Local: Try the homemade deer ragout or soups—an easy dinner solution!
Wellness: Pack a swimsuit for the spa and consider the sauna circuit for total relaxation.
Winter Activities: The Watles ski area and Schöneben-Haideralm skiing, or guided snowshoe hikes—there’s something for everyone.
Slow Travel: Linger longer. Five days felt like two weeks—a testament to how recharging this place can be.

» Want more tips on immersive stays? Check out our Slow Travel page.
» Onward to warmer climates? Our Lago di Garda guide helps you continue your journey south.

On the move to “Your” Maraias

Whether you’re just stopping for a night or looking to lose yourself in winter wonder, Maraias – Luxury Suites & Apartments has all the warmth of a South Tyrol hotel wrapped up in the embrace of farm life. We’ve written plenty about Maraias in summer, but experiencing it in winter revealed an equally captivating side. The calm atmosphere, the hearty meals, the chance to ski or simply laze in the spa—this hotel becomes a snow-kissed haven where you can truly unplug. And that’s exactly why I’ll be back, whether the valley is blooming in green or shimmering under a fresh snowfall.