Karcher Hof

Surrounded by vineyards, this family-run farm, which is over 500 years old and still actively used for agriculture stands under the South Tyrolean sun, where Pink Lady, Granny Smith, and Royal Gala apples ripen on the trees and the vines yield grapes used to produce Chardonnay and Sauvignon. Not far from Bolzano and Merano and nestled in Mediterranean-Alpine landscapes, the Karcher Hof is an excellent destination for a taste of la dolce vita, complete with Italian serenity and Alpine cuisine against a mountain backdrop. Palm trees and farm gardens, dumplings and gelato, lightness and tradition—this very special blend is a specialty of Italy’s northernmost province. The carefully renovated farmhouse is a wonderful home base for exploring and enjoying the region and its delights. It is located at the foot of the Tschögglberg, which is known for its hiking trails and panoramic views. Eva, who runs the farm, knows full well that no one wants to leave here anytime soon, and offers two newly renovated vacation apartments for guests. The “Jola” apartment was created in the former horse stable, named after a four-legged family member who used to live here. The “Rosa” apartment was once home to a great-great-aunt (and namesake), but the name also references the old, pale pink-painted farmhouse cabinet that absolutely had to be preserved. The cabinet was dismantled into individual parts and the pieces were installed in various forms in each of the rooms —as a shelf, cabinet door, or drawer. Clay plaster, lime paint, solid wood antique furniture with a modern twist, and pieces crafted by a local carpenter contribute to the interior’s charm. Raw wooden beams and exposed natural stone walls serve as a reminder that this house is steeped in history. All year round, the farmstead offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life—sometimes snow-covered, sometimes filled with blossoming apple trees. Always different, yet so beautiful in every season that we are only too happy to return.

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• The minimalist design with plenty of white and natural tones, which beautifully highlights the unplastered natural stone walls.
• The hardwood floors and historic ceiling beams, which lend the rooms warmth and character.
• How well the ultra-modern built-in kitchens in subtle sage gray blend into the old walls. A great setting for preparing delicious dishes from fresh farm produce.
• The fact that fresh meadow flowers adorn the apartments whenever the garden yields them, true to the hostess’s motto, “Flowers are nature’s smile”.
• How well you can sleep in the cozy beds, surrounded by nature’s tranquility.
• That the Terlano Wine Trail leads right past the farm through the vineyard landscape. Informative stations provide insight into the region’s wine culture—and the best way to experience the quality of the local grapes is through a tasting.
• Looking for recommendations for the most beautiful swimming spot or the best dumplings? Hostess Eva is full of ideas that she loves to share with her guests.
• From the farm, you’ll enjoy (depending on how you position your lounge chair or breakfast table) stunning views of Lake Laugen, the Mendel River, or the mountains surrounding Merano.
• The farm shop, where guests can stock up on all sorts of delicious items from the farm: eggs, fruit spreads, dried fruit, apple juice, seasonal fruits and vegetables, and the legendary lemon balm syrup.
• If you’d like, you can experience farm life up close on a farm tour.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Each vacation apartment features a bedroom and a sofa bed and can accommodate up to 4 adults. Both include a kitchen and a modern bathroom with a walk-in shower. “Jola” is located on the ground floor and has a private terrace; “Rosa” is on the first floor and features a balcony.
• Life here revolves around the outdoors—the beautiful garden is well-equipped with a lawn for sunbathing, a hammock, a herb garden, and a fire pit.
• Young guests are very welcome and will enjoy a pedal tractor, the playground, table soccer, as well as books and games (for parents, too!). Cribs and high chairs can be provided free of charge upon request.
• Since heat is generated by a wood pellet heating system and there is a solar panel setup, you can enjoy a wonderfully sustainable vacation here.
• Those exploring the area on two wheels will appreciate the bike storage room, where bikes can be parked safely.
• The farm is nestled among vineyards and Alpine scenery, yet is only 20 minutes from Merano and 15 minutes from Bolzano. Lake Kaltern and Trautmannsdorf Castle are also just a short drive away.
• But you can easily leave the car behind: the nearest restaurant is 5 minutes away, and the village center is a 20-minute walk. The swimming pool in Terlan is also just around the corner.
• For those travelling by train, there is a pickup service from the train station or bus station. The nearest train station is Terlan.