Watch tournaments, take classes and rent a court to play with a friend at Merano’s Tennis Club (Centro Tennis). The Tennis Club is among the most important sporting institutions in Merano and was established in 1884. Tennis was introduced to Merano by Princess Esterhazy-Croy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, who had founded the lawn tennis club of Vienna.
In 1905, the club hosted its first international tournament and welcomed competitors from various European nations. Throughout the years running up to World War II the tournament took place annually and featured some 250 players from over 20 countries. Today you’ll find 13 courts in addition to indoor facilities and a modern clubhouse. The outdoor courts are accessible between April and October.
Courts are available to rent by the hour for both members and non-members of the club. Note that rates are cheaper during daytime hours and on public holidays. Some courts might be closed to the public when there is a tournament taking place. Ask about the availability of lessons for all ages with qualified coaches.
The clubhouse has changing facilities and a restaurant. It also hosts social events such as Christmas dinners and New Year’s Eve parties.
You’ll find the club located to the south of Merano’s town center. It is a mile (1.6 kilometers) away from Merano train station. If you are arriving by car then you can make use of the metered car park. Adjacent to the club is Camping Merano, a dog-friendly campsite with shaded pitches and a swimming pool.
The Tennis Club is close to several other of Merano’s sports and recreation facilities. Attend a horserace and September’s Merano Wine Festival at the Ippodromo di Merano. Meranarena is a multi-use complex home to indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a rock climbing wall and an ice-skating rink. Unwind at the nearby Merano Thermal Baths after a day of energetic activity.