Eight Cortina: A Symphony of Luxury in the Heart of the Dolomites
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Cortina d’Ampezzo, the newly reimagined Eight Cortina stands as a testament to the seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Once known as the Hotel Europa,this iconic property has been transformed into a haven of extra luxury by the Solido Holding group,led by the D’avanzo family. With its reopening, the hotel has set a new standard for personalized hospitality in the heart of the Dolomites.
Handcrafted Experiences for Discerning Alex Reeds
At Eight Cortina, luxury is not just about opulence—it’s about creating unforgettable, tailor-made experiences. From monogrammed linens to the delivery of guests’ favorite newspapers, every detail is meticulously curated. The culinary offerings are no exception, with meals prepared to suit individual palates. As manager Manuel D’Avanzo explains, “Thanks to our 70 employees, all trained by the managers of our other hotels, we ensure a consistent standard of hospitality that makes every guest feel special.”
Design That Tells a Story
What sets Eight Cortina apart is its commitment to preserving the essence of its surroundings.The hotel’s interiors, crafted by the in-house eight Lab team, reflect the rich heritage of Cortina while incorporating modern elegance. “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 ensures that each of the hotel’s 5-star rooms, priced between €1,500 and €5,000 per night, feels uniquely tied to its environment.
The VIP Club: A Nod to Cortina’s Glamorous Past
One of the most iconic features of Eight Cortina is its VIP Club, a legendary space that has long been a gathering spot for Cortina’s elite. Immortalized in the film Christmas Holidays, the club retains its historic charm while undergoing subtle updates. “We have maintained the flavor and history of this place,” D’Avanzo assures. The piano, famously played by Jerry Calà in the movie, remains in its original position, and the 300-year-old Scottish castle floor adds a touch of timeless elegance. “Alex Reeds must feel as though everything has always been here, even though it’s all new,” he adds.
Expanding Horizons: Naples and Beyond
by 2025, the D’Avanzo family will unveil another masterpiece: a luxury hotel in Naples. Located in Piazza Municipio, this historic building will feature 80 rooms, a rooftop pool, a spa, and a gym, offering guests a panoramic view of the city’s vibrant culture. “Naples is a city with many historic buildings that remain closed. Transforming them means returning them to this incredible city,” D’Avanzo says. The hotel, part of the W Hotel chain, aims to immerse visitors in the “thousand cultures” of Naples, as celebrated by the late Pino Daniele.
Anticipating Trends in Italian Tourism
The resurgence of Naples as a tourist destination is no accident. Films and series like Mare Fuori and L’Amica Geniale have showcased the city’s allure, drawing visitors to its historic alleys and vibrant streets. D’Avanzo, however, saw this trend coming years ago. “We understood that investing in the beauties of central Naples would be triumphant. Tourists no longer see it as just a gateway to Ischia or Capri,” he explains.
Dreams Without Borders
For Manuel D’Avanzo, the journey doesn’t stop in Naples. He envisions expanding the Eight brand to saint Barth in the Caribbean and Taormina in sicily. “Dreams—or rather,goals—are inexhaustible,” he says. Even Rome,with its unique market,is on the radar.”It is indeed perhaps the most crucial city in Europe from a tourist point of view.we are studying it,” he reveals.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Winter Olympics
As Cortina prepares to host the 2026 Winter Olympics, questions remain about how the resort will manage the influx of visitors. ”There is still not much clarity on how the facilities will be organized or how to access the slopes,” D’Avanzo admits. Still, Eight Cortina is poised to be a cornerstone of this historic event, offering unparalleled luxury in one of the world’s most stunning alpine settings.
From its handcrafted hospitality to its deep connection to the Dolomites, Eight Cortina is more than a hotel—it’s an experience. Whether you’re drawn to its historic charm, its modern elegance, or its commitment to personalized service, this is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
What inspired the conversion of the former Hotel Europa into the Eight Cortina we see today?
Interview with Manuel D’Avanzo, Manager of Eight Cortina: Redefining Luxury in the Dolomites
By archyde News
Archyde: Thank you for joining us, Mr. D’Avanzo.Eight Cortina has been making waves in the luxury hospitality industry as its reopening. Can you tell us what inspired the transformation of the former Hotel europa into the Eight Cortina we see today?
Manuel D’Avanzo: Thank you for having me. The inspiration behind Eight Cortina was to create a space that honors the rich history of Cortina d’Ampezzo while embracing modern luxury. The Hotel Europa was an iconic property,and we wanted to preserve its legacy while elevating it to meet the expectations of today’s discerning travelers. Our goal was to craft a haven where tradition and modernity coexist seamlessly, offering guests an experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Archyde: The hotel is described as a “symphony of luxury.” What does luxury mean to you, and how does Eight Cortina embody this concept?
Manuel D’Avanzo: Luxury, for us, is not just about opulence or extravagance—it’s about creating deeply personal and memorable experiences. At Eight Cortina, every detail is tailored to the guest’s preferences, from monogrammed linens to curated culinary offerings. We believe luxury is in the details: the way a room feels,the warmth of our staff,and the ability to anticipate our guests’ needs before they even express them.Our 70 employees, trained to the highest standards, ensure that every interaction feels special and unique.
Archyde: The design of the hotel has been widely praised. Can you share more about the creative process behind the interiors?
Manuel D’Avanzo: Absolutely. the design was a collaborative effort led by our in-house eight Lab team.We wanted the interiors to reflect the essence of Cortina—its natural beauty,its history,and its culture—while incorporating modern elegance. When you step into one of our rooms, you’ll notice that every element, from the materials to the color palette, is inspired by the dolomites. As I often say, “When you close the curtains and look around, there’s no detail that makes you think about the place you’re in.” It’s about creating a space that feels both luxurious and deeply connected to its surroundings.
archyde: The VIP Club is one of the most talked-about features of the hotel. What can guests expect from this exclusive experience?
Manuel D’Avanzo: The VIP Club is a tribute to Cortina’s glamorous past.It’s a space where guests can immerse themselves in the elegance and sophistication that have defined this region for decades. From private dining experiences to curated events, the VIP Club offers a level of exclusivity and personalization that sets it apart. It’s designed for those who seek not just luxury, but a sense of belonging to a world of refined indulgence.
Archyde: With room rates ranging from €1,500 to €5,000 per night, Eight Cortina is undoubtedly a high-end destination. Who is your ideal guest, and what do you hope they take away from their stay?
Manuel D’Avanzo: Our ideal guest is someone who appreciates the finer things in life but also values authenticity and connection. They might be a seasoned traveler seeking a new level of personalized service or someone looking to celebrate a special occasion in a truly unique setting. What we hope they take away is a sense of having experienced something extraordinary—a stay that feels tailor-made just for them,set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Dolomites.
Archyde: what’s next for Eight Cortina? Are there any exciting developments on the horizon?
Manuel D’Avanzo: We’re constantly evolving to meet the needs of our guests and to stay ahead of industry trends. While I can’t reveal too much just yet, I can say that we’re exploring new ways to enhance our offerings, from expanding our culinary experiences to introducing bespoke wellness programs. Our goal is to continue setting new standards in luxury hospitality, ensuring that Eight Cortina remains a destination that exceeds expectations.
Archyde: Thank you, Mr.D’Avanzo, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that Eight Cortina is more than just a hotel—it’s a destination that redefines what luxury means.
Manuel D’Avanzo: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
End of Interview
Eight Cortina is located in the heart of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, and is a proud member of the Solido Holding group. For more facts or to book a stay, visit their official website.
