Cristofaro Bruna on Hospitality, Leadership & Giardino Mountain

Cristofaro Bruna (38) is the general manager of Giardino Mountain. Born in Licata, Sicily, and raised in Cologne, he has built a successful career in hospitality, driven by a deep passion for service and guest experience. His journey began as a commis at his uncle’s restaurant while still in school. His dedication to hospitality has remained steadfast strong, leading him to his current leadership role at Giardino Mountain.

Safar: Cristofaro Bruna, how did you start your career in hospitality?
Cristofaro Bruna: My career in hospitality began when I was young. One of my uncles owned an Italian restaurant in Germany, where I practically grew up. That’s how I entered the world of hospitality.

How did you end up becoming a general manager?
I began working at my uncle’s restaurant as a commis while I was still in school, helping out on weekends. Over time, I took on various roles in hotels, gradually moving up the ladder – from waiter to chef, then restaurant supervisor, restaurant manager, F&B manager and purchasing manager. With each role, I gained more experience and eventually, I found myself managing the entire hotel.

You speak many languages. How does this help you in your career?
I speak German, Italian, English and French, which has been incredibly valuable in my career. Speaking to guests in their native language makes them feel more comfortable and welcomed. The same applies for our hotel team – coworkers who speak Italian, German, Portuguese and English, allowing for smoother communication.

What sets Giardino Mountain apart from other hotels in the Alps?
Giardino Mountain is a five-star superior hotel with exceptionally high standards. What sets us apart from other luxury hotels is our approachability and modern vibe.  We’re not stiff or old-fashioned. We are young and fresh, which is clearly reflected in the hotel’s design.

What type of clientele does Giardino Mountain attract?
Our clientele is very international. We welcome guests from all over the world, including the USA, UK, India and the Arab world. We still see Russian guests, though fewer than in previous years. In the winter, it’s truly global, while in the summer, we tend to see more German, Austrian and Swiss guests.

What is your favorite spot in Giardino Mountain?
My favorite spot is by the fireplace at the bar. In the evening, it feels like the hotel’s living room. It’s a place to meet guests, enjoy a nice cocktail or a glass of champagne, and have a little friendly chat. It feels like coming home and finding someone from the family.

How would you describe the perfect stay at Giardino Mountain?
The perfect stay at Giardino Mountain really depends on your preferences. If you love skiing, a snowy day on the slopes is ideal, followed by a relaxing treatment at our spa. In the evening, you can unwind with a cocktail or hot chocolate by the fireplace and then have a wonderful dinner at one of our restaurants.

What activities can guests enjoy around St. Moritz from your hotel?
The main attraction is skiing, but there’s much more to enjoy. We offer a horse-drawn carriage ride, and we have an ice rink on our terrace, which is perfect for families, especially with kids. Guests can relax, take their time and enjoy the stunning mountain views.

How would you describe excellent guest service and hospitality?
Excellent guest service is about understanding each guest’s needs and making them feel truly welcome. We strive to make our guests feel like they’re coming home, especially since many return regularly. Over time, we get to know their preferences, and it becomes more like a friendship.

What challenges are luxury hotels facing and how is your hotel addressing them?
Guest expectations and services have changed significantly in recent years, making it increasingly challenging to stay ahead of all the evolving needs. At Giardino Mountain, we’ve updated our restaurant and bar concepts to keep things fresh and exciting. However, it’s always challenging to meet the high standards of our guests. We must remain attentive to their needs and ensure they feel truly valued.

What advice do you have for people entering the hospitality sector?
My advice is to keep pushing forward, keep learning and always remain passionate about service and people. This industry is dynamic and ever-changing, so adaptability and a positive attitude are key to success.