Back to the Source – The Power of Nature by Tradition
Plunhof – Home of Generations & Innovations
South Tyrol, Italy |
Ratschings, Ridnaun |
Mining-themed spa hotel |
4-star superior |
The Volgger family |
Dolce Vita Meets a Mining Heritage
Run by Paula Volgger and her eight children, the 4-star superior Hotel Plunhof in Ridnaun-Ratschings, South Tyrol, integrates a centuries-old tradition of mining into a unique holiday and wellness experience with innovative architecture, concept and content. This EU-Ecolabel-certified hotel is considered one of the world’s finest destination spas. The Plunhof focuses on its heritage and the power inherent in nature. It is a well-conceived approach that has been implemented with great skill and is highly appreciated by guests, reviewers and experts alike.
Hotel Facts at a Glance
Nature on a Plate
Ripened in the South Tyrolean sun, grown on lush meadows, cultivated on gentle hills: sustainable, ecological agriculture produces high-quality, local and seasonal foods and unadulterated flavours that are reflected in the Plunhof’s culinary philosophy. Regionality is nothing new here – it’s been part of life since time immemorial.


Above and Below the Surface
Mining has shaped Ridnaun’s valley, people and traditions – and the Plunhof’s too. Its history is evident throughout, from the rooms to the world of grottos, culminating in the ‘wellness above and below the surface’ concept that underpins the Spa Minera. The power of the local ore is uniquely palpable in the destination spa, from its design by Tyrolean architect Karl Landauer, to its menu. This is where guests embark on a wellbeing journey through tunnels, grottos, the miners’ sauna and saltwater whirlpool, benefitting from the power within the rock and soil. Spa Minera was extended in 2019 and now offers 4,000sqm of facilities. The Acqua Minera, the Plunhof’s extraordinary indoor and outdoor poolscape, sets a milestone in wellness tourism.
Beauty & Renewal – Power from Rock & Soil
The spa’s range of treatments is focused on certified organic, high-tech and medical cosmetics with exclusive partners. Highly effective skincare products and Alpine signature treatments combine the power of rock and soil with the tools of biology and science. All reflect the Plunhof’s regional traditions, making use of silver quartzite mined in the mountains of the Pfitsch Valley, pure lambswool, rock salt and the local stone.
Head-to-Soul Sustainability
At the Plunhof, going back to the source isn’t just about reviving history, traditions or culinary regionality. It also means respecting the ecosystem and looking after nature’s resources without losing sight of their usefulness for the environment, the future, and above all for the people. This philosophy is palpable not only in the spa and restaurant, but also on hikes, cycle rides and mountain bike excursions, at the Plunhof’s own mountain hut and the Tötschhof farm, when fishing or skiing … and in the almost limitless possibilities for discovering nature.

7 Unmissable Experiences
The Flow of Nature
Rooted
Local timbers, natural stone and references to an ancient mining tradition: discover supreme comfort and a home from home. Named after family members, the Plunhof’s rooms and suites are as unique as their namesakes and their guests.
Traditional
For 800 years, the people in the picturesque Eisack Valley in South Tyrol earned their livelihoods by mining. Hotel director Paula Volgger’s grandfather, father and brothers all worked in the nearby Schneeberg mine, now a fascinating museum.
Delicious
Between the Alps and the Mediterranean, dolce vita and mining: South Tyrolean treats and Mediterranean delights. The Plunhof’s food culture has grown out of nature, the climate and history – and is joyfully passed on.
Alive
The Plunhof’s traditions are upheld – be it at the Tötschhof, Paula Volgger’s home, or at their own mountain hut … enjoy experiences of what is often forgotten elsewhere: nature, a sense of connection, and warm cordiality.
Real
Mother Nature really knows how to show off her power, clarity and abundance here at the Plunhof. At 1,340m above sea level, she soothes our hearts on amazing hikes, strengthens our lungs with her clean mountain air, and liberates us from day-to-day worries. Rest, relaxation and renewed energy.


© Photo credits: Christian Gufler, Rotwild, Gabriel Büchelmeier, Getty Images, KOTTERSTEGER