A woman has lost a lengthy and 'emotionally distressful' court battle after a five-star hotel in Italy refused to offer her tap water. The case, which spanned seven years, began in 2019 when she spent a week at the luxury ski resort of Corvara, in Badia, over Christmas and New Year. She had paid for a half-board deal that included dinner, but when she requested tap water with her meal, the hotel 'constantly denied' her request. Instead, she was expected to pay £6 (€7) for a 0.75-litre bottle of water.
The Legal Battle
The woman ultimately took her concerns to court, seeking £2,337 (€2,700) in compensation for 'economic damage and emotional distress.' She argued that water is 'a natural resource and a universal human right,' and that 'the free provision of a minimum vital quantity is necessary to meet essential needs and must be guaranteed,' according to court papers cited by Corriere Alto Adgie. The hotel guest further contended that tap water should be a basic amenity, comparing it to 'finding a bed with sheets' and 'soap in the bathroom.'
Court Ruling
The claim was initially filed in a lower court in Rome, which dismissed it. The woman then appealed to the supreme court of cassation. The judges ruled that there are no Italian laws or regulations requiring tap water to be served, and that doing so is at the discretion of the venue. Silvio Belardi, the lawyer representing the hotel, said the court held that 'there is no obligation to supply tap water.'
Cultural Context
It is said that asking for tap water at a restaurant in Italy is considered poor etiquette, and it is typical for waiters to refuse. Italian tap water can contain several hard minerals like calcium, magnesium, or added chlorine, which locals believe can negatively impact the flavours of the food. In contrast, licensed hospitality venues across England and Wales are legally required to serve free drinking water.
