Mom and I have had a rough few years. She had an issue with her heart which required surgery during the pandemic and I, well, I had COVID three times with residual issues lasting for three years. I almost died twice.
Not fun.
We needed to have some fun wrapped up in a wellness retreat to support our ongoing mission to rebuild our health stronger and better than ever. By a series of coincidences, I discovered a very special retreat where no Americans go! Giardino Marling is located on the northeast point of Italy where the Austrian, Switzerland and German borders meet – in a town called Marlengo, near Merano in South Tyrol, Italy. The region, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, is known for its stunning Alpine landscapes, superb ski community, nature & lakes, wine & food and its rich history and culture.
Within 24 hours of our stay, we knew we had discovered a very special hide-away. Many guests approached us asking if we were American wondering how we heard about the hotel.
“Excuse me. Are you American? How did you hear about our place?” asked one guest.
“Pardon. We hear an American English and can’t imagine how you found our place. It’s only by referral.” proclaimed another guest.
“We hear you’re American. That’s very rare here. We discovered our place 12 years ago and come back at least once a year, but we try for twice a year. You’ll find that most guests here aren’t really guests – they are part of the Giardino Familia.” said the couple sitting next to us at our first dinner.
Our Place
This was the phrase we heard over and over again. As if we had stumbled upon a secret society that is only accessible to a very select group of Europeans focused on health. We woke up on our first morning and knew our stay was going to be very special.
This region of Italy is known for its prolific production of apples and grapes. In fact, apple production here is the most plentiful in Europe and the grapes of this region yield some of the most popular wines. Giardino serves breakfast and dinner – all inclusive – all farm to table – all the most unbelievably flavorful food. No wonder this retreat has so many regulars!
Everything is locally sourced and made on property, i.e. breads, pasta, pastries. Trust me when I say – you haven’t had clean food until coming here. With a combination of buffet and a la carte, the choices are never ending.
Since a photo speaks a thousand words, let me show you what it’s like at Giardino.
The exquisite infinity rooftop pool one early morning before breakfast. There are 3 pools total on property with one indoors and the others on the roof and on the grounds behind the hotel. Other activities include yoga, a daily fitness program and personal coaching.
Mom was inspired to take a swim that morning despite the 50 degree weather since the pool stays heated at 85. Yes, that’s one of the vineyards behind her.
THIS is a sauna! They have 4 different types of saunas – Finish Sauna @ 90 degrees, Bio Sauna @ 50 degrees, Infrared Sauna & Steam. All looking out to the vineyards. Right down the hallway is the spa which provides all the usual treatments and then some. But the skills of the technicians are what makes it FAR superior. I had a facial and massage and both beat out any competition in the United States.
Giardino’s local town, Merano, is a short drive from the property. It’s a charming town right on a river with beautiful local boutiques and gastromic adventures.
This is a map of all the hiking trails in the area. If you’re a hiker, THIS is your spot! Other activities off-property include, mountain-biking, tennis, historical castles, museums, and the well known and very special botanical garden of Trauttmansdorf.
The local church. I’m not religious nor am I Catholic or Christian, but to spend time here is magical.
In their fastidious focus for health and joy, Giardino doesn’t forget their 4-legged family members.
This is a family owned and operated retreat. Current management is second generation and I was impressed with the genuine care and love this lady puts into her property. Ulrike Klammer visited our table during our first dinner. She’s so healthy, the glow pours out of her every pore. I was curious about this Giardino family that became apparent within just a few hours of our arrival and inquired.
“I think we bring something different than other retreats or other 5-star hotels for that matter. Yes, we have worked hard to develop a beautiful property both inside and out, but what makes us different is the authentic care we bring to serving our guests. This is why they’re so curious about you. It’s rare to find Americans here and about 70% of our guests are regulars. This is why we call them family, even their pets.” Ms. Klammer explained.
“I understand this coming from you – the owner. But it trickles down to all your staff. How is that?” I asked.
“When I hire, I need to have a connection to the candidate. I can teach skills; I can teach the job; I can’t teach passion for hospitality or a love for people. Either you have it or you don’t.” she said.
And there you have it – the magic of Giardino Marling!
With just a few hours until departure, Mom and I enjoyed our favorite juices on the terrace and enjoyed the morning sun.
“Did you see the note?” Mom asked.
“What note?” I asked.
“I figured you didn’t see it since you were busy packing this morning.” she said while handing me a piece of paper.
I have tears in my eyes – this place is so special.
Mom looks at me with an inquisitive smile, “Honey. I haven’t felt this good in I don’t know how long. I lost weight. I’m relaxed, yet energized. I’m so present and happy. What do you say we come back for my birthday in May?”
“Definitely! But maybe we should ask Ms. Klammer if there’s an application process to join the family?” I asked. Mom and I both giggled, took our last photo at our favorite spot and headed to the front desk to check out.
Of course, Ms. Klammer was at reception waiting to see us off. This woman is a loving hospitality machine!
We hugged Goodbye and Ms. Klammer gave us a parting gift:
“It’s honey from our beekeeper next door.” she says, “No one likes to say Good Bye to family. So we give you honey for a sweet trip home and say, “See You Later!”
Group Hug.
Mom booked our next trip before we checked out. She didn’t consult Dad.