Villapiccola, Veneto 32040

As a mountain enthusiast and lover of authentic places, every time I return to the Cadore region Im struck by the sincere beauty of these landscapes. While walking near Lake Santa Caterina, I came across a building that immediately caught my eye: a former family-run hotel, simple and genuine, yet with enormous potential to become a small jewel of modern hospitality in the mountains.The building has a solid foundation, both structurally and emotionally: 10 rooms spread across two floors, all with private bathrooms and some featuring balconies. As they are, the rooms already have great value, but I can easily imagine a thoughtful restyling to make them more welcoming to todays travelersnatural materials, understated comforts, handcrafted details, and a design that honors tradition with a contemporary touch.On the ground floor lies the soul of the hotel: a bar room once known in the area for its excellent pastries. I see the opportunity to create a lively meeting pointnot just for overnight guests, but also for hikers, cyclists, and travelers passing through. A place to enjoy breakfast, relax after a walk, or savor a traditional dessert in a warm, family-like atmosphere.Next to it, the kitchen offers space for a simple and well-curated food offering, perhaps with a small menu based on local, seasonal products.The basement could be transformed into a wellness area, with a sauna and relaxation zone, while the large atticstill untouchedcould become a cozy, multifunctional loft: a space for activities, small events, or even a couple of panoramic suites.Cadore has a deep soul, and places like this can become the starting point for a new kind of hospitality: respectful, rooted in the land, yet able to speak the language of todays travelers. With a measured yet bold renovation, this hotel could be reborn as a contemporary retreat with the soul of a mountain home.