Staying at Gardena Grödnerhof in The Dolomites

Details of Our Stay

TRAVEL DATES

August 1-4 (3 nights)

Property type

Luxury

TYPE OF TRIP

Family

WEATHER

Highs 84°F (29°C)
Lows 55°F (13°C)

Gardena Grödnerhof was the third stop during our Dolomites visit on our year-long travel adventure. 

And there is so much to love here!

Days could start with a hike or cable car into the mountains, include a nap in the flowers or a stop for a summit spritz, then end back at the hotel with a heated pool, room service, and ridiculously comfy Egyptian cotton sheets. Need I say more!

Add in alpine playgrounds and a kids’ club, and it quickly became the kind of basecamp that made exploring with a little one feel SO much easier.

Ollie and I showed up with basically zero plans, and their incredible concierge helped us map out our days. They also provided hiking poles, backpacks, and an all-terrain stroller to make getting out and exploring that much easier.

And honestly, this is where luxury really earns its place on an adventurous trip. A massage, the spa, an amazing night’s sleep… then up to do it all again the next day.

Here’s my experience staying at Gardena Grödnerhof!

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Getting There

I’ll be honest: getting to Ortisei takes a little more planning than your average Italian getaway. This isn’t the kind of place where you step off the plane and are checking into your hotel 15 minutes later.

You’re heading deep into the Dolomites, and whichever way you arrive, the final stretch comes with some seriously beautiful mountain scenery.

By Car

Driving is one of the easiest—and prettiest—ways to get here, plus you can extend your trip and explore more of the Dolomites.

By Plane

You can fly into a few airports. It just depends on where you’re coming from and whether you’re planning to rent a car.

• Bolzano Airport (BZO) is the closest to Ortisei. The drive to Gardena Grödnerhof takes roughly 45–55 minutes. It is a small regional airport, so there are fewer routes, and fares can be higher than flying into one of the bigger hubs.
• Innsbruck Airport (INN) in Austria is another great option, particularly if you’re traveling from elsewhere in Europe. Roughly a 2-hour drive to the hotel.
• Verona Airport (VRN) is a 2.5-hour drive away. It’s a handy middle ground, with more flight options.
• Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is further away, but it can make a lot of sense if you’re flying internationally or want to turn the journey into part of a bigger Northern Italy trip. Allow around 3 to 4 hours by car, depending on traffic and your route.

By Train

There’s no train station in Ortisei, but Bressanone/Brixen is around 30 minutes away, and Bolzano/Bozen is 45 minutes away. Both are served by intercity and international trains. From either station, you can continue to Ortisei by bus, taxi, or private transfer.

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Services & Amenities

There’s plenty to enjoy between mountain adventures, whether that means spa time, a workout, or letting the concierge plan your next outing.

Fitness & Wellness: The fitness center is fully equipped, and there’s a weekly program with yoga, stretching, aquagym, and gentle fitness classes. A qualified instructor is also available if you want a little guidance.

The Gardena Spa: This was THE highlight for me. More on that later!

Concierge: The concierge team is amazing and can help with everything from restaurant reservations to shopping tips and arranging local activities and gear.

Outdoor Adventures: Depending on the season, guests can join guided hikes, winter walks, or snowshoe excursions. The hotel also offers a ski bus in winter and transfers to guided hiking starting points in summer.

Little Extras: Free underground parking, ski lockers with boot dryers, bike and golf storage, plus all those thoughtful five-star touches that make coming back after a day in the mountains feel extra nice.

The Location

The location is honestly one of the best parts of staying here. Staying at Gardena Grödnerhof puts you right in the heart of Ortisei, one of the prettiest little alpine towns in the Dolomites.

You can walk to the cable cars for both Seceda and Alpe di Siusi, which makes exploring SO easy. No hunting for parking or driving mountain roads, just step outside and head straight for the trails.

You’re also surrounded by cute cafés, restaurants, and shops, so everything you need is right here. If you’re here in winter, you’re just 200 meters from ski lifts and ski fields.

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The Rooms

Comfortable, luxurious, warm, and distinctly Alpine. Tick, tick, tick, and tick. There’s a range of rooms and suites, all with that cozy mountain feel but plenty of polished five-star touches.

We stayed in the Chalet Seceda Suite and WOW! Easily one of the standout options, with a huge balcony and gorgeous mountain views. Inside, there’s a separate living/dining area, a fireplace, luxurious Egyptian cotton sheets, and all the little details that make it feel extra special.

The bathroom deserves its own mention, too, with a bathtub, double shower, private sauna, and gorgeous Balmain bath products.

Dining

Food is a big part of the experience here, with everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to long breakfasts and DIY juicing stations.

Gardena Restaurant: The main restaurant has a contemporary Alpine feel and serves a mix of Mediterranean, Italian, international, and vegetarian dishes. Breakfast here is generous in the best way. Think homemade pastries, eggs cooked to order, a juice bar, and even a glass of sparkling wine if you’re feeling fancy.

Anna Stuben: This is the special-occasion spot. With one Michelin star and four Gault&Millau toques, the tasting plates are as beautiful as they are delicious. Definitely one to book if you are celebrating or looking for a romantic night to remember.

4 Sajons: A seasonal restaurant all about showcasing ingredients at their best, with menus that change throughout the year.

Afternoon Treats: Spoiler alert! From 3 to 5 pm, cakes and little snacks await you back at the hotel. A very welcome sight after a day in the mountains!

Wine Cellar: Wine lovers can dive into a great selection of premium Italian wines, with tastings available if you want to learn a little more as you sip.

Lounge & Bar: Cozy, relaxed, and perfect for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap. Expect wine, classic favorites, and original cocktails in a warm Alpine setting.

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Activities & Experiences

There’s no shortage of adventure here, and what I love is that there’s something for everyone, from families looking for a slower pace to avid explorers chasing a challenge.

Hiking: Duh! The Dolomites and hiking go hand in hand. Whether you’re a hardcore trail nut or just looking for a casual stroll in nature before heading back for happy hour, you’ve got plenty of options.

Experience Plose: Looking for some next-level fun and a little adrenaline rush? Jump on the Plosebob toboggan, then explore the trails and play stations. If you’re feeling brave, try the Plose Loop, where you bike through a full 360-degree loop and quite literally defy gravity. Allow at least four hours, plus about an hour’s drive each way from the hotel.

Visit Seceda: Seceda feels totally out of this world and has some of the best views in the Dolomites. The cable cars are only a 10-minute walk from the hotel, which is fab since parking is limited. Head up to the top station, then take a 10-minute uphill walk to the iconic viewpoint. Stop by Baita Sofie for a bite, a drink, and some sun while you take it all in.

Explore Alpe di Siusi: Europe’s largest high alpine meadow and a beautiful place to explore. Take the Mont Sëuc Cable Car to the top, then you can shorten the walk by hopping on a chairlift down toward the lake. Wander the trails, take in the views, and stop at Malga Schgaguler Schwaige for lunch, with a playground, animals, and an incredible mountain backdrop.

Skiing: Visiting in winter brings a totally new experience. The Dolomiti Superski circuit offers slopes for all tastes and levels in a landscape of incomparable beauty.

Kids Experiences

Families are really well looked after here. The Kids Club has a bright upstairs playroom for little ones, with coloring tables, toys, and plenty of space to play. Downstairs is more for the tweens and teens, with a climbing wall, foosball, and arcade-racing games.

Supervised care is available from 3 to 11 pm, six days a week, for children ages 3 and up, and there’s even an assisted children’s dinner table so parents can enjoy a little extra downtime.

The Spa

The Gardena Spa was easily one of my favorite parts of the hotel. There’s an indoor pool, outdoor whirlpool, saunas, steam baths, and cozy relaxation spaces, plus a full menu of luxe treatments.

I had one of the best deep tissue massages of my life here, so definitely carve out some downtime between mountain adventures!

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In My Opinion

Staying at Gardena Grödnerhof offers the perfect balance of adventure and indulgence. The location makes exploring easy, while the spa, dining, service, and ridiculously comfy rooms make coming back just as enjoyable. For us, it was such an easy, luxurious base for experiencing the Dolomites.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Gardena Grödnerhof

5-star alpine retreat

Check Prices

Right in the heart of Ortisei, Gardena Grödnerhof makes it ridiculously easy to spend your days exploring the Dolomites, then come home to a luxe place to unwind with all the comforts.

Hotel

Luxury

$$$$

I was invited to experience a stay at Gardena Grödnerhof. I was not compensated for this review. All opinions are my own!

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Holafly Plans Review (2026): Is This the Best Global eSIM for Frequent Travelers?

This post is sponsored by Holafly. As always, all opinions and experiences are my own. This post also contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you.

If there is one thing our year abroad has taught me, it’s that I never want to think about international phone service again.

My son and I have spent 2026 living and traveling abroad, starting with several months based in Cape Town before making our way through Africa and Europe. We’ve crossed borders constantly, and my phone is essential for everything from Google Maps and WhatsApp to train tickets, restaurant reservations, work, and keeping in touch with family back home.

For years, I’ve used and recommended Holafly eSIMs for international travel. But traveling continuously is very different from taking a two-week vacation.

That’s where Holafly Plans comes in.

Instead of purchasing a different eSIM every time you visit a new country, Holafly Plans gives frequent travelers one global eSIM that works across 160+ destinations. There are currently two plans to choose from, including an Unlimited Plan with unlimited data and hotspot capabilities. 

After using it during our year abroad, I think it’s one of Holafly’s most useful products yet—especially if you’re a frequent traveler, digital nomad, remote worker, or spending an extended period overseas.

Here’s my complete Holafly Plans review, including how it works, how it differs from a regular travel eSIM, the costs, and who I think it’s actually worth it for.

What Is Holafly Plans?

Holafly Plans is a global eSIM subscription designed specifically for frequent and long-term travelers.

You install a single eSIM on your phone, and rather than purchasing a new data plan every time you change countries, the same eSIM can connect you across 160+ supported destinations. 

Essentially, it’s designed to feel more like having an international mobile plan than buying a temporary travel eSIM.

Depending on the plan you choose, features include:

• Coverage across 160+ destinations
• Up to unlimited mobile data
• Hotspot/tethering
• One eSIM across multiple countries
• 1GB of backup data through Holafly’s Always On feature
• Flexible subscription options
• 24/7 customer support
• The ability to cancel your subscription when you no longer need it

For anyone traveling through multiple countries in one trip—or living abroad and traveling regularly—the biggest selling point for me is simply not having to think about connectivity every time I cross a border.

What Is an eSIM?

If you’re new to eSIMs, an eSIM is essentially a digital version of a physical SIM card.

Instead of arriving in another country, finding a mobile provider, buying a physical SIM card, and swapping it into your phone, you can purchase and install an eSIM digitally.

Once it’s set up, you select that eSIM for your mobile data while traveling.

I’ve been using eSIMs for years now, and they’re one of those travel technologies that make me wonder how we ever did things differently.

No airport SIM-card kiosks. No tiny pieces of plastic to lose. No immediately searching for Wi-Fi when you land.

Cotswolds, UK

Holafly Plans vs. a Regular Holafly eSIM

This is probably the most important distinction because Holafly Plans isn’t necessarily the best choice for every traveler.

I still love Holafly’s classic eSIMs.

Classic Holafly eSIMs are best for vacations and shorter trips.

If you’re going to Italy for 10 days or Japan for two weeks, you can simply buy a Holafly eSIM for that destination or region and select the number of days you need.

They’re available for more than 200 destinations and are perfect for a traditional international trip.

Holafly Plans are best for frequent or continuous travel.

Holafly Plans are designed for people who travel internationally over and over again—or who are moving between countries for an extended period.

Think:

• Digital nomads
• Full-time travelers
• Remote workers
• Study-abroad travelers
• People taking a sabbatical or gap year
• Expats who travel frequently
• Anyone taking several international trips throughout the year

Instead of purchasing separate eSIMs as you go, you keep the same global eSIM installed.

For our year abroad, this makes significantly more sense.

 

Why I Use Holafly Plans for Our Year Abroad

This year, we’ve already traveled through South Africa, Kenya, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy, with Switzerland, Spain, and Greece following during our European summer.

And I work throughout all of it.

I’m constantly using my phone to upload Instagram Stories and Reels, answer emails, navigate, book trains, research restaurants, check into flights, message hotels, and coordinate travel.

I’m also traveling as a mom, which adds an entirely different layer.

When I’m arriving somewhere new with my four-year-old, luggage, a car seat, and approximately 47 other things to think about, figuring out how to get my phone connected is about the last thing I want on my list.

With Holafly Plans, I’ve been able to use the same eSIM as we’ve moved between countries.

That convenience is really the reason I love it.

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Holafly Light Plan vs. Unlimited Plan

Holafly currently offers two global eSIM Plans: Light and Unlimited. Both cover 160+ destinations and include hotspot access and the Always On backup-data feature. 

Holafly Light Plan

The Light Plan currently includes:

• 25GB of data
• Global coverage across 160+ destinations
• Hotspot access
• Always On backup data

This is probably more than enough for many travelers who primarily use their phones for Maps, WhatsApp, email, social media, and general browsing. 

Holafly Unlimited Plan

The Unlimited Plan currently includes:

• Unlimited mobile data
• Global coverage across 160+ destinations
• Unlimited hotspot
• Always On backup data
• A phone number option

Holafly currently allows Unlimited Plan customers to choose a US, UK, or Canadian number. The number supports incoming SMS, which can be particularly useful for verification texts while traveling. 

For me, Unlimited is the obvious choice.

I create content for a living, upload huge amounts of media, work remotely, and regularly connect other devices to my hotspot.

I don’t want to think about how much data I’ve used. Ever.

One of My Favorite Features: Unlimited Hotspot

This is a big one if you work while traveling.

Hotel Wi-Fi can be amazing.

It can also be absolutely terrible.

I’ve used my phone as a hotspot for my laptop countless times while traveling, so having hotspot capabilities makes Holafly Plans substantially more useful to me than a plan designed solely for phone data.

With the Unlimited Plan, hotspot use is currently unlimited as well. 

For digital nomads and remote workers, that alone is a compelling feature.

Receiving Texts With a US Number

One issue Americans often don’t think about until they spend significant time abroad is two-factor authentication.

• Banks.
• Credit cards.
• Security codes.
• Accounts that insist on texting a verification code.

Holafly’s Unlimited Plan currently includes the option to select a US, UK, or Canadian phone number. The number supports inbound SMS as well as VoIP-based calling, although it isn’t designed like a traditional cellular phone line for incoming calls. 

For American travelers in particular, having access to a US number that can receive texts is a major plus.

What Is Holafly’s “Always On” Feature?

Another feature included with Holafly Plans is called Always On.

It gives you 1GB of backup data, renewed every 30 days, so you have a basic level of connectivity available as a backup. 

One gigabyte isn’t meant to replace your normal plan, obviously.

But it can be enough to message someone, pull up directions, access a reservation, or get yourself connected during a travel day.

And anyone who travels frequently knows exactly how valuable that can be.

Landing somewhere without working data is one of my least favorite feelings—especially when you’re trying to find a driver or figure out where you’re going.

Holafly Plans vs. AT&T, Verizon, and US International Roaming

Before eSIMs became so easy, most Americans basically had three choices when traveling internationally: Use their US carrier’s international roaming plan, buy a local SIM, or live at the mercy of public Wi-Fi.

International options from US mobile carriers can certainly be convenient, particularly for an occasional trip.

But if you’re traveling for months at a time or constantly crossing international borders, paying for international access through your regular US plan isn’t always the most practical solution.

This is where I think Holafly Plans makes the most sense.

Rather than treating international service as an add-on to a US phone plan, the entire product is built around being international.

You’re paying for a global data solution from the start.

I would still compare the current cost of your US carrier’s international offering against Holafly before switching—especially because everyone’s existing mobile plan is different—but for my lifestyle, a dedicated global eSIM makes much more sense.

• provence, france

How Does Holafly Compare to Airalo, Nomad, and Other Global eSIMs?

There are a LOT more eSIM providers today than when I first started using them.

Airalo and Nomad both offer global eSIM products, for example. Airalo offers global packages with varying amounts of data and validity, while Nomad’s Global and Global-EX products offer prepaid data allowances for set periods. 

The biggest distinction with Holafly Plans is the subscription model.

Rather than choosing a fixed amount of data for a fixed travel period each time, Holafly Plans is designed as an ongoing service that automatically continues from month to month.

And, on the Unlimited Plan, I don’t need to keep track of a data allowance.

I wouldn’t say that makes Holafly universally “better” than every other eSIM. It depends entirely on how you travel.

If you’re taking one vacation and only need 5GB of data? A prepaid eSIM may be cheaper.

If you’re spending months traveling internationally, crossing borders regularly, working remotely, and using a significant amount of data?

That’s where Holafly Plans becomes much more compelling.

Prosecco Region, ITALY

Why a Global eSIM Is So Useful for Multi-Country Travel

Europe is probably the perfect example.

On this trip alone, we’re traveling from the UK to France, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Greece.

I don’t want six different eSIMs.

I don’t want to research mobile carriers every time we arrive somewhere.

And I definitely don’t want to wonder whether I have enough data left while trying to navigate to our Airbnb.

Holafly Plans is designed to connect automatically in supported destinations as you cross borders, without needing to install another eSIM each time. For a multi-country itinerary, that feels incredibly seamless.

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How Much Does Holafly Plans Cost?

Holafly offers Light and Unlimited Plans, with monthly pricing as well as discounted longer billing options advertised on its Plans page. 

Because pricing and promotions can change, I’d recommend checking the current rates directly through Holafly before subscribing rather than relying on a price you saw in an older blog post.

You can also use my link and discount code:

Visit Holafly and use code THEBLONDEABROAD for 10% OFF Holafly Plans (or 5% OFF standard Holafly eSIMs).

Because this is an affiliate link, I may earn a commission if you sign up through it, at no additional cost to you.

How to Set Up Holafly Plans

Setup is pretty straightforward.

1. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible.
2. Choose either the Light or Unlimited Holafly Plan.
3. Purchase your plan.
4. Follow the instructions to install the eSIM through the Holafly app or QR code.
5. Select the Holafly eSIM for cellular data.
6. Turn on data roaming for the eSIM when you want to use it.

 

One important thing to know: your Holafly Plan currently activates as soon as you purchase it.

Your 30-day cycle begins on the purchase date rather than the day you arrive in your destination, so don’t buy it weeks before your trip thinking you’ll activate it later. 

Who Is Holafly Plans Best For?

After using it myself, I think Holafly Plans makes the most sense for:

• Frequent international travelers: If you’re leaving the country every month or two, having one global eSIM removes a lot of repetitive setup.
• Digital nomads: You can move between supported countries without constantly researching new mobile plans.
• Remote workers: The combination of global data and hotspot functionality is particularly useful when your livelihood depends on being connected.
• Long-term travelers: Gap years, sabbaticals, semesters abroad, and extended international trips are exactly where an ongoing subscription starts to make sense.
• Full-time travelers: If your life is basically one long international itinerary, this product was designed for you.
• Content creators: If you’re constantly uploading photos and video like I am, the Unlimited Plan eliminates the mental math around data usage.

Is Holafly Plans Worth It?

For short trips? Probably not.

If I’m heading to Italy for a week, I’d still buy a regular Holafly Italy or Europe eSIM and call it a day.

But for the way I’m traveling this year?

Absolutely.

I’ve spent the better part of 2026 abroad while running my businesses, creating content, and traveling internationally with my son.

I already have enough logistics to manage.

I don’t need my phone service to become another one.

That’s ultimately what I like most about Holafly Plans: I don’t really think about it.

My eSIM is installed.

I travel.

My phone works.

And for a full-time traveler, that’s pretty much exactly what I want.

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Ready to try Holafly Plans?

sign up today

Check Plans

You can sign up for Holafly Plans here and use code THEBLONDEABROAD for 10% OFF Holafly Plans

Holafly Plans FAQ

Is Holafly Plans unlimited?

Holafly currently offers both a Light Plan and an Unlimited Plan. The Light Plan includes 25GB of data, while the Unlimited Plan includes unlimited data and unlimited hotspot use. 

Does Holafly Plans work in Europe?

Yes. Holafly Plans covers 160+ destinations globally, including many popular destinations throughout Europe. Always check your specific destinations on Holafly’s coverage list before purchasing. 

Is Holafly Plans good for digital nomads?

I think this is actually one of the best use cases for it. One eSIM can stay installed while you move between supported destinations, and the Unlimited Plan removes the need to monitor how much mobile data you’re using.

Can I use Holafly Plans as a hotspot?

Yes. Both current Plans support hotspot use, with unlimited hotspot included on the Unlimited Plan. 

What’s the difference between Holafly Plans and a regular Holafly eSIM?

A classic Holafly eSIM is purchased for a particular destination or region and travel period. Holafly Plans is an ongoing global subscription designed for frequent, long-term, and full-time travelers.

Does Holafly Plans give you a phone number?

Holafly’s current Unlimited Plan includes the option for a US, UK, or Canadian number. It can receive SMS messages and supports VoIP-based calling; it is not a traditional cellular voice line for incoming calls. 

When does my Holafly Plan activate?

Currently, the plan activates immediately when you purchase it, and the first 30-day cycle starts on your purchase date. 

Is Holafly Plans better than Airalo?

It depends on your trip. Airalo offers global eSIM packages with different data allowances and validity periods, while Holafly Plans is designed as a recurring global subscription. For a short trip or light data usage, a prepaid eSIM may make more sense. For continuous international travel and heavy data usage, I personally prefer the simplicity of Holafly’s Unlimited Plan.

 

 

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