Alessandro's blog - A receptionist's point of view
I have to clarify that this isn't the first time Hotel Savoia Palace has offered its guests a barbecue amidst nature. In previous years, we've organized this alternative day at least once a week for both Savoia and Hotel Miramonti, usually in Val Brenta. However, I hadn't yet participated in the summer season of 2019, especially not in Val Genova.
As mentioned earlier, to make our guests' stay unforgettable, we decided, like every summer season, to organize a barbecue in a mountain hut in Val Genova.
For those who may not know, Val Genova is one of the most beautiful and picturesque valleys, located about 20 km from Madonna di Campiglio, westward from Carisolo as the crow flies. The valley's uniqueness lies in its stunning waterfalls and various watercourses.
We depart at 8:30 in the morning from Hotel Savoia Palace towards Strembo and then head towards the trail leading into Val Genova. Even from the van as we descend, one can witness the majesty of the surrounding landscape. It's a path through lush greenery, with the Sarca River of Val Genova accompanying us along with dense vegetation.
Upon arrival at the mountain hut, the magnificent granite mountains immediately catch the eye, along with the lush vegetation and surrounding woods.
We start with the initial preparations to welcome our guests, setting up tables, chairs, deck chairs, and umbrellas. Meanwhile, the grills for cooking meat are lit and put into operation, and the cauldron is set up with water boiling to prepare polenta.
After an hour of initial preparations, the rest of the staff arrives, and the real work begins. While the chefs start preparing platters of appetizers, cold cuts, and cheeses (all typical, all locally sourced), the waitstaff begin setting up the buffet with plates, cutlery, and bread baskets.
Around eleven or noon, the first guests from our hotel start arriving—some on foot after a stroll, others returning from a hike to the famous waterfalls. The hut is a 30-minute walk from the stunning Laris waterfalls, so it becomes an almost obligatory stop before indulging in food. Other guests prefer to head to our hut using the shuttles provided by the hotel.
Upon the arrival of the first guests, the grilling begins—chicken, beef, pork, and especially the ever-popular ribs are placed on the grill.
The appetizer course starts with cured meats and cheeses, with the manager ensuring that everything is orderly at the tables and everyone gets their share of food.
When the grilled meat is served, the fun begins—polenta and goulash are served, along with hamburgers, ribs, sausages, and more.
After serving all the guests, it's finally time for the staff to enjoy these delicacies as well.
After a hearty feast of meat, the barbecue isn't over yet!
Grilled and glazed apples and peaches are served, followed by a refreshing slice of watermelon along with the indispensable coffee and a choice of digestifs such as Braulio Bormino and Trentino grappa.
After finishing their meal, guests resume their journey or catch the shuttle back to the hotel. The staff cleans up, and we'll see everyone next week!