Hotel Monte Pana – tradition and innovation in the Dolomites

The history of Hotel Monte Pana dates back to the early 1900s, when food and drink were first served in this enchanting place. Soon after, the original structure was extended and transformed into a boarding house.

The years 1932 to 1933, when the first part of the hotel was built, were a milestone in the hotel's development.
The hotel was run by Hans Kerschbaumer and Melitta Delago, who already owned the small Hotel Dolomiti Madonna in Ortisei. To realise their ambitious vision, the couple travelled to Innsbruck – specifically to the Hafelekar, the mountain overlooking the city. There they visited the mountain station designed by the renowned high-alpine architect Franz Baumann. As fate would have it, Baumann happened to be there that day. Impressed by their vision, he travelled to Monte Pana a few days later to see the site for himself.
Overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape, he designed a building that would blend harmoniously with its natural surroundings. He not only focussed on the architecture of the house, but also created the interiors down to the smallest detail, from the furniture to the cutlery.

Between 1934 and 1935, another important building was completed: the chapel above the hotel, which was commissioned by Melitta Delago as a vow of healing. This building was also designed and realised by Baumann, maintaining the same harmonious style as the hotel.

Over the years, as guest numbers steadily increased, it became necessary to expand the hotel complex. The hotel had become too small, especially in view of the 1970 Alpine Skiing World Championships. Several modern designs were proposed, but none were able to integrate harmoniously with the original building and the surrounding landscape.
Finally, Tschucky Kerschbaumer, son of Hans and Melitta, decided to build an extension that would respect the existing architecture. He commissioned the architect Ploner from Bolzano, and after the summer season of 1969, construction began – just in time to be completed before Christmas.

In 1985, the old guesthouse, located about 100 metres from the main hotel, was demolished. In its place, Villa Pana was built – a residence offering comfortable holiday apartments.

Under the management of the third generation, represented by Andrea Kerschbaumer, extensive renovations have been carried out. A modern wellness area has been created – a true oasis of peace and relaxation in the heart of the Dolomites.