There are undoubtedly many great hotels in Austria's winter sports resorts – but those with an exceptional concept are rare. And even rarer are those where women play a key role in shaping the unique selling points of their businesses and ensuring that guests feel comfortable.
A green lifestyle and an exceptional winter experience presented in a charming and understated way are what make the Biohotel Rupertus in Leogang so special. Winter sports enthusiasts can look forward not only to the hotel's exceptional cuisine, ski-in/ski-out access, and a unique wellness area, but also to the fact that it is the only hotel in the renowned winter sports resort of Leogang that is 100% committed to organic practices, sustainability, and regional sourcing – making winter holidays truly green. The Rupertus in Leogang has received numerous awards for its green concept.
„We offer organic food out of conviction – and have done so since 1977, when my father opened the hotel. Good cuisine has always been important to us, and it’s wonderful to know that our distinctive approach is appreciated by our guests,“ says Nadja Blumenkamp, who, as host and member of the owning family, plays a key role at the Rupertus. „For us, sustainability and regionality extend far beyond the kitchen and begin with building biology, energy, and even the journey to our hotel.“
The green lifestyle isn't just good for your conscience when it comes to the environment; it also provides the assurance of enjoying high-quality, 100% organic and regional food on vacation. In addition, a vegan menu is offered daily – a rather unique feature among domestic holiday hotels. Blumenkamp explains: "Those who love meat can enjoy the best organic meat from regional farmers, and those who are vegan or simply want to be inspired by a single course or a complete menu can savor the imaginative creations of our kitchen team." And these creations have even been awarded two Gault Millau toques.
The art mastered by the family-run Biohotel Rupertus combines a natural, yet never ostentatious, commitment to a green lifestyle with a feel for the "dolce vita" in the mountains. This creates an ease that makes the hotel a haven of well-being. Also of note: From the Rupertus, you can glide directly from the hotel onto the slopes and leave your tracks on freshly groomed runs – ski-in/ski-out just the way you like it.
The idyllic, car-free hamlet of Oberkühnreit is a nature village located just above the village of Neukirchen, close to the ski run from the Wildkogel down into the valley and the Kühnreit toboggan run. Ten wooden chalets, ranging in size from 55 to 120 square meters, offer 16 accommodation units – two of which have their own saunas – and are loosely scattered on the sunny slopes with views towards the Hohe Tauern National Park. The accommodations can sleep up to eight people, including children and dogs. Anyone who appreciates fresh air, winter sports amidst the mountains, and the individuality of their own wooden chalet will find this the perfect place.
The Oberkühnreit Nature Village has already won the Top of the Mountains award for "best alpine village" four times, and boasts an "excellent" 9.2 rating on booking.com. "The resort has been around for 20 years; it was built by my father and has a very unique philosophy," explains Anika Ensmann-Heim, who has managed the nature village for 10 years. "We are very connected to nature, and we want our guests to feel at home here. If they want me, I'm there; if not, they have their peace and quiet."„
Regionality and down-to-earth values are paramount in the nature village of Oberkühnreit: Anika makes many things herself – from jams to cakes – and has also completed training as a self-sufficiency educator. Her mother grows fruit and vegetables and distills schnapps. Receptionist Margret is a herbalist; they even make their own juices. "The nature village is the place for your dreams, that's written everywhere here – everyone can live their dream here – whether it's a retreat, a family reunion, or whatever – and so can we," says Anika.
In the nature village of Oberkühnreit, cars take a break; instead, you'll find pristine winter scenery, glistening snow, and the joy of being active. For example, you can go tobogganing from the village down to Neukirchen. The 1.5-kilometer toboggan run is illuminated until 8:00 p.m. and is suitable for families. Or you can go skiing on the Wildkogel, a perfect family ski area with three-quarters blue or red slopes, fun runs, and Skiline offerings. The valley run passes almost directly by the nature village of Oberkühnreit, meaning every ski day practically starts and ends right at your doorstep.
The Hotel Hinteregger in Matrei is an exciting hideaway – a highlight for architecture enthusiasts, individualists, and culinary connoisseurs. It's also an ideal starting point for winter fun in the East Tyrolean mountains – from the Matrei-Kals ski area, to cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, to the nearby ice climbing park. The Hotel Hinteregger is an oasis of warmth, peace, and relaxation – a refuge for mountain lovers seeking something special. The spa area harmoniously blends natural materials such as stone, clay, wood, and water. The genuinely delicious food – typical Tyrolean dishes – comes from the hotel's own organic farm. At the Hotel Hinteregger, tradition and modernity merge in an inspiring way: "We preserve the traditions of the past while integrating innovation, modern architecture, and design," says Katharina Hradecky, the hotel's owner, aptly describing her philosophy. For those seeking relaxation, après-ski can be enjoyed in a laid-back style: reflect on the day in the sauna and relaxation room; enjoy the crackling fireplace, participate in a wine tasting, or unwind with a massage. Located in the town centre, the Hotel Hinteregger is a most delightful refuge in the middle of the mountains, without appearing rural.