Once you leave Merano, a road running through the woods leads to Castel Fragsburg, a fairytale-like residence with traditional guestrooms and public spaces full of atmosphere. Meals are served either in the elegant dining rooms or, in fine weather, outdoors on one of the most spectacular terraces in Italy, perched high above the valley. In the kitchen, Egon Heiss demonstrates his culinary talent on a tasting menu of creative dishes which are made mostly from local mountain ingredients, including freshwater fish and wild game. The excellent desserts are particularly worthy of mention.