A New Era of Luxury: Eight Cortina Reimagines Hospitality in the Heart of the Dolomites
Nestled among the majestic peaks of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a historic landmark has been reborn. The former Hotel Europa, once a jewel of the Ampezzo Valley, has reopened its doors as Eight Cortina, a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. This conversion, spearheaded by the solido Holding group under the leadership of the D’Avanzo family, marks a bold step forward in the world of high-end hospitality.
A Symphony of Personalized Luxury
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At Eight Cortina, luxury is not just about opulence—it’s about creating a bespoke experience for every guest. From monogrammed linens to the delivery of their favorite newspapers, every detail is meticulously curated. “The search for uniqueness and personalized experiences is now a prerogative of luxury lovers,” explains Manuel D’Avanzo, the hotel’s manager. The culinary offerings are no exception, with meals tailored to individual palates, ensuring a dining experience that feels as personal as it is indeed exquisite.
This level of care is made possible by a dedicated team of 70 employees, all trained to uphold the Solido Holding group’s renowned standards of hospitality. “Thanks to our 70 employees, all trained by the managers of our other hotels, we guarantee our standard of hospitality here too,” D’Avanzo tells Adnkronos.
A Design That Honors Tradition
The challenge of reimagining a historic property like the Hotel Europa was no small feat. “The most difficult challenge was managing to diversify our offer among the accommodation facilities present in the area,” says D’Avanzo. The solution? A design ideology that respects the original structure while infusing it with modern elegance.The Eight Lab department, the group’s in-house design team, played a pivotal role in this transformation. Their work ensures that every corner of the hotel reflects the spirit of the Dolomites. “when you close the curtains of the room and look around, there is no detail that makes you think about the place you are in,” D’avanzo notes. This attention to detail is what sets Eight Cortina apart from larger hotel chains.
The VIP Club: A Nod to Cortina’s Glamorous Past
One of the most iconic features of the property is the VIP Club, a legendary venue that has long been a gathering place for Cortina’s elite. Immortalized in the film Christmas Holidays by vanzina, the club has retained its historic charm while undergoing subtle updates.
“For the VIP Club, unlike the hotel which needed major interventions, only a small ‘makeover’ and the optimization of the systems were required,” D’Avanzo explains. the goal was to preserve the club’s storied history while enhancing its functionality. The result is a space that feels both timeless and fresh, complete with a 300-year-old Scottish castle floor that adds a touch of authenticity.
Beyond Cortina: The D’Avanzo Family’s Vision
The D’Avanzo family is not resting on its laurels. By 2025, thay plan to open a new W Hotel in Naples, part of the Marriott chain. Located in Piazza Municipio, this 80-room property will feature a rooftop pool, spa, gym, and a restaurant-bar in an internal courtyard. “Naples is a city with manny historic buildings, which remain closed. Transforming them means returning them to this amazing city,” says D’Avanzo.
This project reflects a broader trend in tourism, with visitors increasingly drawn to the cultural richness of Naples’ historic center. “Tourists, especially foreigners, now come to Naples not only for the sea but also to immerse themselves in the characteristic alleys of the center,” D’Avanzo observes.
Looking Ahead: Dreams and Goals
For the D’Avanzo family,the journey is far from over. They are already eyeing new horizons, including a potential hotel in Saint Barth and a project in Taormina. “Dreams—which I prefer to call goals—are inexhaustible,” D’Avanzo says.
As Cortina d’Ampezzo prepares to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Eight Cortina stands ready to welcome a new wave of visitors. “To date, there is still not much clarity on how the tourist resort and its facilities will be organized,” D’Avanzo admits. But one thing is certain: eight Cortina is poised to remain a cornerstone of luxury hospitality in the Dolomites.
Key Features of Eight Cortina
| Feature | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Location | Cortina d’Ampezzo, Dolomites |
| Room Rates | €1,500 to €5,000 per night |
| Unique Offerings | personalized linens, tailored dining, VIP Club |
| Design Philosophy | respect for original structure, connection to local culture |
| Upcoming Projects | W Hotel in Naples (2025), potential expansions in Saint Barth and Taormina |
Eight Cortina is more than a hotel—it’s a testament to the enduring allure of Italian luxury. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of the Dolomites or the vibrant energy of Naples, the D’Avanzo family invites you to experience hospitality redefined.
Reimagining Luxury hospitality: A Conversation with Manuel D’Avanzo on Eight Cortina and Beyond
In the heart of the Dolomites, the Eight Cortina has emerged as a beacon of luxury hospitality, blending the rich history of the former Hotel Europa with modern elegance. Spearheaded by the D’Avanzo family and their Solido Holding group, this transformation reflects a growing trend in high-end tourism: the desire for personalized, culturally immersive experiences. To delve deeper into this project and its broader implications, we sat down with Manuel D’Avanzo, the visionary behind this reimagined retreat, to discuss the philosophy, challenges, and future of luxury hospitality.
The Vision Behind Eight Cortina
senior Editor: Manuel, thank you for joining us. The transformation of the Hotel Europa into Eight Cortina is nothing short of remarkable. What inspired this project, and how does it reflect the values of the Solido Holding group?
Manuel D’Avanzo: Thank you for having me. The inspiration came from a desire to honor the legacy of the Hotel Europa while redefining what luxury means in today’s world. For us,luxury isn’t just about opulence—it’s about creating a deeply personal experience for each guest. We wanted to preserve the soul of this historic property while infusing it with modern touches that resonate with today’s discerning travelers. This project is a testament to our commitment to blending tradition with innovation.
Personalized Luxury: The Hallmark of Eight Cortina
Senior Editor: One of the standout features of eight Cortina is its emphasis on personalized experiences. From monogrammed linens to tailored dining, how do you ensure that every guest feels uniquely catered to?
Manuel D’Avanzo: It starts with understanding our guests’ preferences before they even arrive. Our team works closely with each guest to curate an experience that feels bespoke. Whether it’s their favorite newspaper waiting for them in the morning or a meal tailored to their dietary preferences, every detail is thoughtfully considered. This level of personalization is made possible by our dedicated team of 70 employees, all trained to uphold the highest standards of hospitality. It’s about creating a sense of belonging, as if the hotel were an extension of their home.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Design
Senior Editor: The design of Eight Cortina is breathtaking. How did you approach the challenge of modernizing a historic property while preserving its original charm?
Manuel D’Avanzo: This was perhaps the most complex aspect of the project. We wanted to respect the original structure and its connection to the Dolomites while introducing contemporary elements that elevate the guest experience. Our in-house design team, the Eight Lab, played a crucial role in achieving this balance. For example, when you close the curtains in your room, every detail—from the materials to the decor—reflects the spirit of the Dolomites. It’s about creating a seamless connection between the past and the present.
The VIP Club: A Legacy Reimagined
Senior Editor: The VIP Club is an iconic part of the property, with a rich history tied to Cortina’s glamorous past. how did you approach its restoration, and what role does it play in the overall experience at eight Cortina?
Manuel D’Avanzo: The VIP Club is a cornerstone of the property’s identity. Unlike the hotel, which required extensive renovations, the club needed only subtle updates to optimize its systems and refresh its aesthetic. Our goal was to preserve its historic charm while making it relevant for today’s guests. It’s a space where guests can immerse themselves in Cortina’s storied past while enjoying modern comforts. Whether it’s a quiet evening by the fireplace or a lively gathering with friends, the VIP Club offers a unique blend of nostalgia and sophistication.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Vision
Senior Editor: The D’Avanzo family is known for its enterprising projects. What’s next on the horizon? We’ve heard rumors about potential expansions in Saint Barth and Taormina—can you share more about these plans?
Manuel D’Avanzo: (Laughs) Yes, we’re always dreaming—or as I like to say, setting goals. We’re currently working on a W Hotel in Naples, set to open in 2025, which will bring a similar blend of history and modernity to the city’s vibrant centre. As for Saint barth and Taormina, these are still in the early stages, but they represent our commitment to exploring new horizons while staying true to our core values. Each project is an chance to redefine luxury hospitality in a way that resonates with the local culture and history.
Eight Cortina and the 2026 Winter Olympics
Senior Editor: With Cortina d’Ampezzo set to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, how is Eight Cortina preparing to welcome this global audience?
Manuel D’Avanzo: The Olympics are an exciting opportunity for Cortina and for us. While there’s still some uncertainty about how the event will be organized, we’re ready to welcome a new wave of visitors.Our goal is to provide a sanctuary where guests can unwind after a day of events, surrounded by the beauty of the Dolomites. We’re confident that Eight Cortina will remain a cornerstone of luxury hospitality in the region, offering an experience that’s both timeless and contemporary.
Final Thoughts: The future of Luxury Hospitality
Senior Editor: as we wrap up, what do you see as the future of luxury hospitality, and how does Eight Cortina fit into that vision?
manuel D’Avanzo: The future of luxury hospitality lies in creating meaningful, personalized experiences that connect guests to the essence of a place. It’s not just about staying in a lovely hotel—it’s about feeling a sense of belonging and immersion. At Eight Cortina, we’ve strived to create a space that honors the past while embracing the future. Whether it’s through our design, our service, or our commitment to sustainability, we aim to set a new standard for what luxury can be. And this is just the beginning—we’re excited to continue pushing boundaries and redefining hospitality in the years to come.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Manuel, for sharing your insights and vision. Eight Cortina is truly a testament to the enduring allure of Italian luxury, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for the D’Avanzo family.
Manuel D’Avanzo: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
