Top 3 Hotels in Italy to Work From in 2025: A Startup Founder’s POV
Top 3 Hotels in Italy for a Workation: A Startup Founder’s POV (Dolimites Edition 2025)
Let’s be real: as a founder who’s always on the move, finding a hotel that can handle your work sprints, video calls, and late-night brainstorms (without sacrificing comfort or killer views) is non-negotiable.
Vacations are not something we, entrepreneurs, usually do.
Workations, on the other hands, are perfect.
Italy, with its epic landscapes and next-level hospitality, has a few gems that nail that “workation” vibe pretty well.
I have a quirk: I love working out of a pool, so if a hotel offers a heated pool with a spot where I can put my Macbook, I'm a fan for life.
Here’s my take on the top three hotels that let you grind, network, and recharge in style.
What does a startup founder like me need in a hotel?
When a startup founder checks into a hotel with the intention of getting serious work done, the essentials go way beyond just a comfy bed and a decent breakfast.
The first non-negotiable is reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi everywhere: guest room, lobby, poolside, and even the restaurant.
Founders are constantly on calls, pushing code, or reviewing marketing campaigns, so spotty internet is a productivity killer.
Equally important are flexible workspaces: think ergonomic desks in rooms, communal coworking lounges, and private meeting rooms for those confidential investor calls.
Bonus points if the hotel offers tech perks like plenty of charging outlets, Bluetooth speakers, and smart TVs for presentations or brainstorming sessions.
But let’s be honest, nobody can grind 24/7.
That’s why access to wellness and fitness facilities is a must.
A pool isn’t just for Instagram: it’s for clearing your head after a marathon of Zoom calls or for sneaking in a few laps before breakfast to get those creative juices flowing. Well, for me it's for working on my laptop as well as I enjoy the water.
On-site gyms, yoga spaces, or even in-room massage services help founders stay healthy and manage stress, which is crucial when you’re juggling a million things at once.
Now, food is more than fuel: it’s a source of joy and inspiration, especially for founders who might be working across time zones or pulling late nights.
Hotels that offer 24/7 dining options, delicious breakfast spreads, and vibrant on-site restaurants or bistros are a huge win.
And yes, sometimes you just need to unwind with a perfectly mixed Aperol Spritz at the bar or on a sunny terrace.
Having access to both quick snacks and gourmet meals means you can stay energized and treat yourself after hitting those milestones.
Finally, the best hotels for founders are those that foster a sense of community and offer opportunities for connection.
Whether it’s through startup-focused events, networking mixers, or just a friendly on-site community manager, being surrounded by like-minded travelers and entrepreneurs makes the whole experience richer.
Add in thoughtful extras like laundry services, flexible check-in/out, and access to local perks or discounts, and you’ve got a hotel that feels like a second home, one that’s set up for both hustle and happiness.
1. Ama Stay: Where the Dolomites Meet the Digital Nomad Dream
If you want to blend mountain air with startup hustle, Ama Stay in San Vigilio di Marebbe is the move. This place is built for smart workers, digital nomads, and founders who need both focus and inspiration. The coworking space is legit: 15 workstations, private call boxes, conference rooms, and a lounge area where spontaneous networking just happens. You can book business spaces by the hour, so you’re not paying for what you don’t use.
The vibe? Young, international, and informal. Founder Markus Promberger’s vision is all about flexibility: work in the morning, ski or hike in the afternoon, then jump back into calls if you feel like it. The rooftop infinity pool and panoramic sauna are perfect for post-pitch decompression. Plus, the on-site restaurant and bistro keep you fueled with upscale cuisine. If you’re craving a real work-life blend, this is it. Check out this review of Ama Stay’s workation experience for more on why it’s a creative basecamp.
2. Hotel Faloria Mountain Spa Resort: Cortina’s Quiet Powerhouse
Cortina d’Ampezzo isn’t just for ski bums and movie stars. The Faloria Mountain Spa Resort is a haven for founders who want to get things done in peace. The staff here is next-level attentive (shoutout to Anna, Alessio, and Eduardo), and the place is spotless, so you can actually focus on work, not logistics.
The restaurant is top-notch, perfect for client dinners or just rewarding yourself after a long day of grinding. The spa is beautiful and clean, and if you need to clear your head, the surrounding mountains are basically a giant outdoor playground. The real win? The atmosphere is relaxed but professional, so you can switch between work mode and recharge mode without missing a beat.
3. Hotel Zirm: The Alpine All-Rounder for Founders
Hotel Zirm in the heart of the Dolomites is a low-key powerhouse for founders who want it all: reliable Wi-Fi, cozy work corners, and jaw-dropping views. The rooms are spacious, and the staff gets what it means to work remotely: they’ll hook you up with anything you need, from extra screens to quiet meeting spaces.
When you need a break, the wellness area (pool, sauna, and fitness zone) is a must have. And if you’re into networking, you’ll find plenty of other entrepreneurs and remote workers hanging around the lounge or swapping stories over dinner. It’s the kind of place where you can finish a pitch deck, then step outside for a quick hike before your next call. For more on their founder-friendly approach, check out Hotel Zirm’s story.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ama Stay ideal for digital nomads and startup founders?
Ama Stay offers coworking spaces, private call boxes, and conference rooms designed specifically for remote work, plus a community vibe that encourages networking and collaboration. You can read more about their workation concept and founder-focused amenities here.
Can I book coworking spaces at Ama Stay for just a few hours?
Yes, business spaces at Ama Stay can be booked by the hour or for the whole day, giving founders maximum flexibility. Learn about their flexible booking options here.
How’s the food at Faloria Mountain Spa Resort?
The restaurant at Faloria Mountain Spa Resort is praised for its top-notch cuisine and attentive staff, making it a great spot for both work and relaxation. Check out guest reviews and more details.
Is Hotel Zirm equipped for remote work?
Hotel Zirm offers reliable Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and founder-friendly amenities like meeting rooms and a wellness area, making it perfect for remote work. See their full list of features.
What’s the founder vibe like at Ama Stay?
Ama Stay’s founder, Markus Promberger, built the hotel with a startup mentality—flexible, community-driven, and designed for young, ambitious guests. Read about Markus’s vision.
Are these hotels open year-round?
Ama Stay and Hotel Zirm are open year-round, catering to both business and leisure travelers, while Faloria Mountain Spa Resort’s availability may vary with the season. Check their official sites for up-to-date info: Ama Stay, Hotel Zirm, Faloria Resort.
Is there an active startup or digital nomad community at these hotels?
Ama Stay is especially known for its active community of digital nomads and founders, with regular networking and team-building events. Discover more about their community events here.
Can I host team retreats or offsites at these hotels?
Yes, all three hotels offer facilities for team retreats and offsites, with Ama Stay being particularly popular for company events and team-building in the mountains. See how companies use Ama Stay for offsites.
What’s the best time of year to visit for work and play?
Spring and autumn are ideal for founders who want to avoid tourist crowds while still enjoying the full range of amenities and outdoor activities. Find out more about seasonal perks at Ama Stay.
Are there wellness facilities for stress relief?
All three hotels feature wellness centers with pools, saunas, and fitness areas, perfect for unwinding after a long day of work. And you can definitely work out of there.
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic "without any funding and without any code," this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.
Mission and Purpose
Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call "gamepreneurship". By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.
Key Features
The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:
Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials
Impact and Growth
Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:
3,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
100+ startup tools built
5,000+ pieces of articles and news written
Partnerships
Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.
Recognition
Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique "play to learn and earn" model.