Franz & Mathilde - Alpine Coliving Retreat in South Tyrol

About This Space

Nestled in the heart of the Italian Alps, Franz & Mathilde is a thoughtfully restored family hotel transformed into a serene coliving haven. Surrounded by apple fields, forests, and dramatic mountain vistas, it provides a quiet, relaxed atmosphere ideal for digital nomads and remote workers. The space is expertly designed by its interior-designer hosts, featuring stylish rooms with private workstations and a dedicated coworking area with stunning valley views. The community thrives on a harmonious balance of organized activities and personal freedom, fostering deep connections among like-minded international guests. It's a place where la dolce vita meets productive remote work.

Biggest Pros

• Exceptionally warm, welcoming, and family-like community atmosphere fostered by the hosts.
• Beautiful, stylish interior design and comfortable, well-equipped workspaces with amazing views.
• Excellent daily vegan/vegetarian breakfast and high-quality, locally-sourced coffee.
• Perfect location for outdoor enthusiasts, with direct access to hiking, cycling, and skiing.
• Reliable, high-speed internet and great coworking facilities with monitors.

Biggest Cons

Unique Selling Point

A historic family hotel lovingly restored into a design-forward alpine retreat, offering an authentic 'dolce vita' experience with a perfect balance of deep work, outdoor adventure, and a genuinely familial community.

Neighborhood

Set in the peaceful, historic village of Tisens (Tesimo), surrounded by apple orchards and mountain scenery. The area offers a tranquil, rural Italian atmosphere while being within easy reach of the charming cities of Merano and Bolzano, as well as the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites.

Community Vibe

A warm, familial, and harmonious community where guests quickly feel like part of the family.

Social Events

The hosts skillfully balance structure with spontaneity. Weekly traditions like 'Volleyball Mondays' and shared Sunday dinners anchor the social calendar, complemented by frequent impromptu trips, hikes, board game nights, and patio gatherings. The inclusive daily breakfast acts as a natural, unforced community builder each morning.

Typical Resident

Digital nomads, remote workers, and professionals seeking a productive workation in a stunning natural setting. Residents are typically friendly, outdoorsy, and value community connection alongside focused work.

Amenities

The retreat boasts a blend of modern comforts and rustic charm. The highlight is the dedicated coworking space, offering 24/7 access, ergonomic chairs, large external monitors, and that inspirational valley view. Each private room includes a proper desk and work chair. Residents enjoy a fully-equipped shared kitchen, a beautiful garden and terrace with hammocks, free specialty coffee and tea, and on-site parking. Unique offerings include a van docking spot with power and a 'pay-what-you-want' policy for external visitors to the coworking space.

• 300 Mbit/s high-speed WiFi
• 24/7 dedicated coworking space with monitors
• Private desk in each room
• Daily vegan & vegetarian breakfast
• Fully-equipped shared kitchen
• Free specialty coffee and tea
• Large garden and terrace with seating
• On-site parking
• Van docking spot with electricity (240V)
• Community events and activities

Location & Accessibility

Located in the village of Tesimo, the retreat offers a serene escape that requires some planning to access. Public buses connect to nearby towns, but schedules can be infrequent. Once settled, the community often shares rides. The village itself is walkable, with a grocery store just an 8-minute walk away for essentials.

Public Transport

The nearest major transport hubs are in Merano and Bolzano. Local buses connect Tesimo to these towns and other villages, but service can be limited, especially on weekends. The closest airports are in Verona, Innsbruck, or Milan, requiring a train or bus connection to the region.

Car Considerations

A car is highly recommended for maximum flexibility to explore the region, visit larger supermarkets, and for arrival/departure convenience. On-site parking is available. Many guests coordinate rides with others once there, reducing the absolute necessity of a personal vehicle for daily life.

Walkability

The village of Tesimo is small and very walkable. A grocery store is an easy 8-minute walk. For local trips, the bus is the primary option, though taxis or ride-sharing can be arranged. The coliving's own garden and facilities mean much of daily life can be enjoyed without leaving the property.

Key Distances

Walk to local grocery store: 8 minutes. Drive to Lana (for major supermarkets): ~10-15 minutes. Drive to Merano: ~20 minutes. Drive to Bolzano: ~30-40 minutes. Access to Dolomites hiking/ski areas: Varies, typically within a 30-60 minute drive.

Challenges & Tips

The main challenge is the reliance on public transport or community goodwill for mobility. Planning arrival/departure around bus schedules is advised. Tip: Connect with hosts/guests beforehand to coordinate potential rides from the train station. Once there, embrace the slower pace and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Lifestyle Activities

Social & Cultural

A vibrant mix of weekly traditions and spontaneous gatherings that foster strong bonds.

• Weekly Sunday shared dinners
• Volleyball Mondays
• Board game nights
• Group trips to Merano/Bolzano
• Patio socials and impromptu gatherings

Wellness & Fitness

Focus on outdoor activity and relaxation in a stunning natural setting.

• Hiking in the surrounding mountains and forests
• Cycling and mountain biking
• Patio yoga
• Relaxing in the garden hammocks
• Winter skiing and snow sports

Outdoor & Adventure

Direct access to the legendary landscapes of the Dolomites and South Tyrol.

• Mountain hiking and trekking
• Alpine cycling with steep climbs
• Skiing and snowboarding in winter
• Exploring historic Alpine villages
• Van life adventures (with docking spot)

Ratings