Virtuoso Adds Ancora Cortina, Bringing New Energy to the Dolomites
The design-forward mountain retreat joins Virtuoso as Cortina d’Ampezzo prepares for its global close-up.
Photo: Courtesy of Ancora Cortina
Long favored by Italian elites and European ski loyalists, Cortina d’Ampezzo is entering a new era of relevance. With the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon and luxury travelers showing renewed interest in high-design alpine escapes, the town is seeing a quiet renaissance, and Ancora Cortina is at the center of it.
The reimagined hotel, backed by fashion entrepreneur Renzo Rosso and helmed by the Melpignano family (of Borgo Egnazia fame), has officially joined Virtuoso, granting it access to over 20,000 top-tier travel advisors worldwide. While the Virtuoso seal is well known in the industry, its timing here is notable: Cortina is in the midst of a transformation, and Ancora aims to be its cultural anchor—not just a place to stay, but a reason to go.
Originally established in 1826 and recently overhauled by designer Vicky Charles (Soho House), the 38-room hotel fuses local heritage with contemporary flair. Custom furnishings, Alpine materials, and hand-finished details set a new aesthetic standard, while the property’s social and culinary programming—including the Brave Club lounge and a spa geared toward restoration rather than excess—cater to a younger, experience-driven luxury guest.
“Virtuoso’s acceptance process is incredibly selective, so becoming a preferred partner is a true honor,” said Andrea Filippi, chief commercial officer of the group. “Now that we’re part of this renowned network, we look forward to offering Virtuoso advisors and their clients the special amenities, values and experiences that surpass their expectations.”
For advisors, Ancora Cortina expands the Dolomites portfolio with a stylish, independently minded property that blends personality with polish. It also offers a valuable foothold in a destination poised to surge in visibility over the next 18 months, particularly among clients seeking access to winter sports, cinematic mountain scenery, and a design-savvy take on Italian hospitality.
