One of Cervinia’s most iconic buildings is finally coming back to life.
After remaining closed for more than fifty years, the historic Gran Baita is about to begin an exciting new chapter. The former luxury hotel, located next to the main lift station in Breuil-Cervinia, will be completely rebuilt and transformed into a spectacular new five-star destination that promises to become one of the flagship hotels in the Italian Alps.
As someone who spends every winter working in Cervinia, I’ve watched this building stand empty for years. Seeing such an important landmark return is exciting not only for locals, but also for skiers and visitors from around the world.
A Piece of Cervinia’s History
The Gran Baita first opened its doors in 1937, during the early years of Cervinia’s development as a ski resort.
Designed by architect Mario Dezzutti, the building immediately became recognisable thanks to its distinctive curved western wing, a remarkable example of Italian Rationalist architecture.
Just a few years later, the renowned architect Carlo Mollino designed an extension for the hotel, further strengthening its connection with the history of mountain architecture in Italy.
Originally, the hotel offered direct access to the cable car leading to Plan Maison and Plateau Rosa, making it one of the most prestigious places to stay in Cervinia.
Unfortunately, two devastating fires, one in 1939 and another in 1973, seriously damaged the building. Following the second fire, the hotel never reopened and gradually fell into disrepair.
For over five decades, the Gran Baita remained one of Cervinia’s most recognisable abandoned buildings.
A Completely New Five-Star Hotel
The approved redevelopment project will give the Gran Baita an entirely new life while respecting its architectural heritage.
Although the original structure is too damaged to be preserved, the designers will recreate its famous curved façade, ensuring that one of Cervinia’s most iconic silhouettes remains part of the village skyline.
The new hotel will feature approximately 135 guest rooms, spread across four accommodation floors, creating a luxury experience that combines contemporary comfort with alpine tradition.
Luxury Facilities Designed for Modern Travellers
The future Gran Baita is expected to offer everything today’s luxury guests expect.
Among the planned facilities are:
- A spectacular two-level panoramic spa
- Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
- Three sun terraces with Matterhorn views
- Nineteen private wellness suites connected to selected guest rooms
- Three restaurants
- Elegant lobby and lounge areas
- Underground parking
- Dedicated staff accommodation
One of the highlights will undoubtedly be the glass-enclosed rooftop wellness centre overlooking the Matterhorn, designed to become one of the most impressive spa experiences in the Aosta Valley.
Designed for the Future
The project has been designed by Italian architect Marco Maresca, well known for creating some of the region’s most prestigious mountain hotels.
His vision combines natural wood, stone, glass and metal to create a modern alpine building while paying tribute to Cervinia’s architectural history.
The striking timber façade will add warmth and depth to the building, while large panoramic windows will maximise natural light and mountain views.
The result aims to blend luxury with sustainability and contemporary mountain design.
A Better Connection with the Ski Area
Location has always been one of the Gran Baita’s greatest strengths.
The hotel sits beside the main departure point for the Cervino Ski Paradise lifts, offering incredibly convenient access to one of Europe’s largest ski areas.
Future plans also include the possibility of a direct underground connection between the hotel and the lift station, recreating the close relationship the original Gran Baita enjoyed with the ski lifts nearly ninety years ago.
For skiers, this could eventually become one of the most convenient luxury hotels anywhere in the Alps.
Demolition Has Begun
Following the approval of the redevelopment project, demolition of the existing building began in June 2026.
Construction is expected to continue over the next few years, with the developers aiming to welcome the first guests by the end of 2028.
Alongside the hotel redevelopment, new pedestrian areas, improved traffic circulation and public spaces will also be created, benefiting both visitors and residents.
Why This Matters for Cervinia
The return of the Gran Baita represents much more than the opening of another luxury hotel.
It demonstrates the continued investment being made in Cervinia’s future.
Over the past few years, the resort has welcomed new luxury accommodation, modernised ski lifts and significant infrastructure improvements. The Gran Baita project continues this evolution, strengthening Cervinia’s position as one of Europe’s premier high-altitude ski destinations.
For international visitors, it means even more choice when looking for luxury accommodation just steps from the slopes.
For those of us who know Cervinia well, it is also wonderful to see one of the village’s historic landmarks finally returning to life after more than fifty years.
If you’re planning your ski trip and want help choosing where to eat, ski, or stay, don’t hesitate to reach out — you can email me anytime at info@skiwithriky.com. I’d be happy to help you plan the perfect Cervinia experience based on your needs and preferences.
See you on the slopes,
Riky
