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Luxury hotel wins legal battle over tap water refusal
Italy's highest court has ruled that a five-star hotel in the Dolomites did not break the law by declining to serve tap water to a guest, dismissing the tourist's claim for compensation.
The incident
During the 2019 ski season, a woman dining at the Hotel Sassongher in Corvara was offered only bottled mineral water for €7 (£6) when she requested tap water. She argued that water is a natural resource and a universal human right, but the hotel maintained its policy.
Legal battle and ruling
The tourist sought €2,700 in compensation for emotional distress and economic damage, initially filing the claim in a Rome court. The case eventually reached the Italian Supreme Court, which rejected her appeal.
According to Italian media reports, the court ruled that there is no legal obligation for venues to provide tap water to guests. The decision to serve it remains at the discretion of individual establishments.
Hotel's stance
"There is no obligation to supply tap water."
Silvio Belardi, lawyer for Hotel Sassongher, quoted in Corriere Alto Adige
Consumer rights debate
The woman compared the refusal of tap water to "finding a bed without sheets or soap in the bathroom," arguing it violated her consumer rights. However, the Supreme Court disagreed, stating that Italian law does not mandate free tap water in hospitality venues.
In contrast, licensed venues in England and Wales are legally required to provide free drinking water upon request.
Unresolved questions
The tourist's identity and background have not been confirmed by media reports. The BBC has reached out to Hotel Sassongher for further comment but has not yet received a response.
