This is a traditional hotel that appears to be transitioning to a hip modern place and we were very lucky to stay here! We arrived in Merano at a surprisingly busy time with no reservations and were so mortified at the hotels we saw (around the 130 Euro per night range), we almost left town.

Then we tried the Hotel Aurora. After being shown the older traditional rooms (which are quite worn) we thought we'd have to look elsewhere. We were then shocked and delighted when shown their brand new design rooms! We had a great 2-night stay.

Our room was all white, with red as an accent, laminate flooring, a flat screen TV, comfortable double bed, lots of mirrors and funky lighting. The bathroom was all grey and steel, with a glass sliding door and high end chrome fixtures. It is best described as Austin Powers meets the 'W Hotel'!

The location can't be beat - it is in the centre of town, right on the Promenade, just across the river from the Therme (2 minute walk).

The price was more than we initially expected pay (as we were approaching off season), but it was good for Merano, and the extras included made it a very good value. The breakfast buffet was included and was excellent. They provided both of us with a 3-hour pass to the Therme for each night of our stay (go to the Therme - it's beautiful!). They parked our car for us for 6.50 Euro per 24 hours. Internet was available, but was overpriced at 6.50 Euro per hour.

Overall, the Hotel Aurora was a hip and happy surprise and, while the old rooms still cater to the traditional crowd, we highly recommend the chic new design rooms!