A story of courage, love, family, and the wonderful feeling of coming home to the Sexten Dolomites.

There are stories that begin with a detailed business plan.

And there are stories of the heart that begin with a vision, a generous dose of courage, and two people who firmly believe in their shared dream.

Our story in picturesque Sexten began on December 24, 1977.

On that snowy Christmas Eve, Marlene and Pepi (just 22 and 26 years old at the time) opened the doors of their small guesthouse for the very first time.

A young married couple, 16 cozy rooms, and a brave decision that was to change their lives forever.

Today, almost five decades later, we look back on this journey with deep gratitude.

On countless personal encounters, moving memories, and everything that has grown from a spark of hope and hard work.

A Plot with a Dolomite View, a Dream, and Great Courage

At the beginning stood a special piece of home: a plot of land in a magnificent panoramic location overlooking the majestic Sexten Dolomites.

Marlene's father had originally intended it as a safeguard for his daughter's future. The location was a dream – although back then, there wasn't even an access road.

What might have seemed like an insurmountable obstacle to many became the starting point of a great adventure for Marlene and Pepi.

At just 22 and 26 years old, they dared to take a step that not everyone in the village could fully understand.

They gave up their secure jobs to build something entirely of their own. Naturally, there was skepticism.

But Marlene and Pepi were passionate about their idea. They possessed a true pioneering spirit, genuine joy in being hosts, and the determination to forge their own path in South Tyrol.

Success proved them right: What began as a modest guesthouse developed step by step into our current Hotel Gruber***S

 

Two All-Rounders with Heart and Vision

The early years demanded everything from them. Apart from a few helping hands, Marlene and Pepi managed the guesthouse almost single-handedly.

They were true all-rounders out of passion. Whether cooking hearty South Tyrolean specialties at the stove, cleaning rooms, making beds, ironing laundry,

or taking the very first written and phone reservations – Marlene and Pepi lent a hand everywhere.

And wherever they met their guests, they always shared a warm smile and a listening ear.

The working days were long and intense, yet they never lost one thing: the genuine joy of connecting with people.

Marlene and Pepi remained ever curious. They rolled up their sleeves, invested wisely, kept thinking ahead, and gave the hotel its deeply personal touch.

When we walk through the hotel today, we don't just see walls, rooms, and continuous change.

We see the lifetime achievement of two people who created a place that goes far beyond a classic hotel:

a true home away from home, filled with history, warmth, and a sense of security.

When Guests Say: “We Are Back Home!”

Over the decades, our house has continuously evolved. From the original guesthouse grew our comfortable 3-Star Hotel Gruber in Sexten.

Rooms were lovingly renovated, amenities refined, and modern desires thoughtfully embraced.

Yet the core of our hotel has remained unchanged throughout all these years: genuine, heartfelt hospitality.

We are especially grateful for the deep connection with our many regular guests.

People who have accompanied us for decades, who now travel to us with their children and grandchildren, and whose life stories are closely interwoven with ours.

When guests step through the door after their journey, breathe out, and say:

“Finally back home!”

… there is no greater compliment for us as hosts. It shows us that a wonderful holiday in Sexten is about so much more than nice rooms and impressive mountain scenery.

It is about trust, genuine appreciation, and feeling welcome.

2027 – A Double Golden Jubilee

The year 2027 is approaching and will mark an extraordinary milestone for our family:

50 Years of Hotel Gruber in Sexten

50 Years of Marriage (Golden Wedding Anniversary) of Marlene and Pepi

Five decades of shared decisions, overcome challenges, and unforgettable moments of happiness.

Five decades in which Marlene and Pepi, side by side, turned a bold vision into a true sanctuary of the heart.

This lifetime achievement fills us with profound respect and immense gratitude.

We are already looking forward to celebrating this special anniversary year 2027 together with our family, our amazing team, and all our loyal guests!

A Family Story that Continues with Joy

Today, we have the privilege of carrying the story of Hotel Gruber forward together with the next generation.

With fresh ideas, sustainable plans, and the same passion, we shape the future of our hotel.

New things will continue to emerge and change – just as Marlene and Pepi demonstrated from the very beginning.

Yet the foundation remains untouched: the warmth, personality, and genuine heart with which it all began in 1977.

Thank you, dear Marlene, dear Pepi, for your tireless courage, your love, and your life's work.

And thank you, dear guests, for making our story possible with your smiles and visits. ❤️

We look forward to writing the next chapters together with you!

Warmest regards,

The Gruber Family & the Entire Team