Das Mühlwald, a family-focused hotel in South Tyrol, Italy, is a haven for parents seeking a break from the usual parenting abroad experience. The hotel, run by the Tauber family, is designed with little ones in mind, offering a range of facilities and services tailored to families with children aged from zero to six. The setting is simply stunning, with breathtaking mountain views and a countryside location on an apple plateau, surrounded by the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the UNESCO-listed Dolomites. The hotel is easily accessible from Bolzano airport, making it a convenient destination for families.
One of the standout features of Das Mühlwald is the family-focused facilities. The kids' club, open daily for children aged two and above, offers a range of fun activities, including face painting, treasure hunts, and petting the resident sheep and goat in the mini "zoo". For children under two, there is a baby club, which is generous in its hours. The play areas are extensive, with a fleet of ride-on toys, a tunnel slide, climbing frames, and a race track, among other attractions. The swimming pools are exceptional, with a family spa offering a range of facilities, including a heated outdoor infinity pool with mountain views.
The dining experience at Das Mühlwald is also family-friendly, with a full-board package that includes a buffet for breakfast and lunch, afternoon cakes and sweet treats, and a gourmet dinner featuring both à la carte and buffet options. The focus is on quality over quantity, with South Tyrolean cuisine blending hearty alpine mountain food with Italian classics. The restaurant staff are knowledgeable about their clientele and create a relaxed atmosphere, accommodating children and their needs.
While the standard double room is cosy, the slightly larger Room Ronja offers more space and an expansive terrace. The hotel also offers suites, such as the Suite Pippi, which is ideal for parents who prefer not to share a room with their kids. The value for money at Das Mühlwald is excellent, given the exceptional setting, all-inclusive dining, and plethora of indoor and outdoor activities for children.
However, there are a few drawbacks. The hotel does not offer air-conditioning or tea and coffee-making facilities in the rooms, and the plastic-free toiletries are in the form of organic soap bars. Additionally, the cost of additional drinks and laundry tokens can add up, and externally-operated tours and activities are additional. Despite these minor drawbacks, Das Mühlwald is a fantastic destination for families seeking a break from the usual parenting abroad experience.
