My Favourite Restaurant on the Ritten
Pippo's Mountain Lodge in Oberbozen
This is how host Philip Benincà—better known to everyone simply as Pippo—describes his Mountain Lodge in Oberbozen.
The lodge offers eight elegant rooms and suites with breathtaking mountain views, a wellness area and a panoramic terrace. Cosy dining rooms and a terrace with a relaxed chill-out lounge provide the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
From its opening in spring 2021, Philip, his wife Alexandra, their team and then head chef Walter Lobis welcomed countless guests, including many local residents from the Renon. As the website says: "Give your calories a new home and treat yourself to honest, high-quality dishes from South Tyrol and around the world on our sunny terrace, in the panoramic dining room or in the traditional parlour." Fresh, regional and seasonal ingredients remain the guiding principles of the kitchen, where head chef Mario and his young culinary team—affectionately known as the "kitchen apprentices"—continue to create memorable dishes.
But where does the name Pippo's Mountain Lodge come from? "My friends call me Pippo," explains Philip Benincà. "The name reflects exactly what we want our guests to experience: everyone is welcome here and everyone should feel at home. We are proud to serve high-quality food and drinks, but we are just as happy when hikers stop by simply to relax on the terrace, recharge their batteries and enjoy the view."
Whether it's a leisurely late breakfast, an aperitif, a gourmet dinner or simply coffee with homemade cake, everyone is welcome. As one regular guest puts it: "Pippo's Mountain Lodge combines excellent quality with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect recipe for becoming a favourite place."
For the past eleven years, Philip and Alexandra have also managed Chalet Grumer, a peaceful retreat with seven spacious suites nestled in nature. A few years ago they had the opportunity to purchase the historic Stickler Farm in Oberbozen. "For us, it was the fulfilment of a dream—a place where both we and our guests could truly feel at home," they say.
With the small horse-breeding farm, Philip has fulfilled another childhood dream. Since 2023, horse-assisted therapy has also been offered together with horse whisperer Steffi. Philip's ideas never stop flowing, but his philosophy is to develop everything step by step while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
"We have created a place where the feeling of 'We're happy you're here' can be experienced everywhere, and where guests can truly discover a sense of freedom," says Philip Benincà.
Arrive. Unwind. Recharge. That's all it takes.