Rath checks in – Naturhotel Forsthofgut

Sometimes you can’t see the forest for the trees. This sometimes also applies to the hotel industry. When you look around the Alps, the first thing you will surely admire is the magnificent landscape, the lush summer meadows and let yourself be pampered by the local traditions and culinary delights. I feel the same. I was able to experience how the often underestimated Alpine hotel industry has surpassed itself in the past two years and is now setting a new milestone in the European hotel industry. This is especially true for nature resorts.

Admittedly, just a few years ago you would hardly have gotten me interested in nature resorts in the same region. At least I would not have visited various natural houses in a region at short intervals. An idyllic view, peace and nature – what exactly are the differences, I would have asked myself back then. As an attentive reader of my column, you know that I am happy to be convinced otherwise and that I am currently even increasing my trips to the Alpine region. In order to track down the subtle differences for you.

My last trip close to nature takes me to the Forsthofgut, a prime example of modern tradition. Originating from a forestry business with a small pension, the house has become the epitome of closeness to nature and luxury in the Leogang mountains. Even more: for me, the Forsthofgut has arrived in the Champions League of Alpine resorts and is comparable to the Stanglwirt, which is only 30 kilometers away. But let me explain that in more detail.

From a forestry business with a small guesthouse to a luxurious nature resort: Carsten K. Rath at the Forsthofgut in Leogang.

As luck would have it, I got to know the Forsthofgut twice within a very short time. The first time I traveled with a briefcase, dressed in a casual business look and equipped with mobile devices as a conference guest in the beautiful Alpine idyll. I usually see a clear focus in many hotels on either business or family travelers. Already during my first stay I notice: There is a broader focus in this place.

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The areas for business travellers, which can hold executive retreats with up to 25 people, and families are smartly separated from each other. The lively children present at the time didn’t bother me at all. I hardly noticed them and was able to go about my business undisturbed. The hotel concept is structurally perfectly implemented – because the spa and children’s area are far away from the conference room.

On my second trip, I was able to deepen this very positive impression, this time in the role of an individual traveller. In every role I play, there is always one thing: the indescribable feeling of being very close to the Leogang mountains. The rock formations are close enough to touch right in front of my accommodation.

Insider tip: lake house with lots of privacy

The hosts Christina and Christoph Schmuck, now in the sixth generation, have made the house what it is today: an elegant place of power in the mountains. On my second stay, I treat myself to a lake house with its own sauna and lots of privacy. An absolute insider tip! The house is on the outskirts of the resort and has been lovingly furnished with many details.

However, my favorite place to stay is on a private patio that offers unobstructed mountain views. Actually, that would be enough to calm down. But anyone who dives into the 5,700 square meter forest spa can really be sure of finding their true center again. For example in the old wood sauna, reserved for adults, or in one of the steam baths.

My favorite is a secluded hot tub on the edge of the forest with a view of the mountains. In the extensive area of ​​the forest spa, I can feel the centuries-old closeness to nature between the property and the approximately 40-hectare forest around the area.

Lake houses in the forest estate

They are located on the outskirts of the resort and offer a lot of privacy and their own sauna.

(Photo: Forsthofgut)

Young and old guests still experience the agricultural origins in the in-house farm, the Pinzgauer Minigut at the foot of the Leoganger Steinberge. A petting zoo with Shetland ponies, rabbits, pigs, goats and sheep inspires the little guests here.

Of course, the Forsthofgut is managed as sustainably as possible. Energy is obtained from the wood from the company’s own timber industry, the electricity is eco, the bathing pond is “organic” and at breakfast I looked in vain for plastic materials or plastic straws.

The main thing is cordial: Service from all over the world

The shortage of skilled workers that has persisted for years does not stop at an excellent house like the Forsthofgut. That’s why I meet many team members who don’t speak perfect German and come from all over the world. However, the small language uncertainties do not bother at all. But on the contrary. These are sympathetically overplayed by pronounced cordiality and give the dignified estate a more international flair.

In any case, I feel extremely well looked after. Everyone addresses me by name and takes their time when I have a question or a request. I notice that every employee is well trained and, above all, focused. A digital guest management system in the background ensures that all data is collected centrally and that everyone can react accordingly. Digital on the inside, analogue on the outside. This is a challenging tightrope walk that does not always succeed. Or just excellent like here in the Forsthofgut.

Relaxation room in the Waldstadl

The forest spa is surrounded by a 40-hectare forest.

(Photo: Forsthofgut)

In the morning, the waitress Aida, who is of Spanish origin, greets me at my table as if I have lived here for years. After just one day, she knows my breakfast preferences, which admittedly are not quite up to standard. Green tea, some sweetener, prepared berries and lactose-free low-fat yoghurt – no problem. Everything is served to me from the second day without much questioning. There are no interpersonal distances here, no arrogance. Everyone works towards the same goal and wants to delight the guest. Mission accomplished!

Conclusion: Closeness to nature with great service excellence

The Alpine regions have been experiencing a tourist boom for years. And this despite the fact that hoteliers have all faced the same challenges over the past two years. Leogang has long been in the shadow of Saalbach-Hinterglemm and now brightens up this place with houses like the Puradies and the Forsthofgut. It will certainly not be my last visit to the Forsthofgut, so I can experience the growth of the house directly.

Compared to my first visit, I discover a newly created lake the second time around. The next project has already been initiated: A separate indoor riding arena is being built and will certainly be ready by the time of my next stop. Until then, I’ll make extensive use of the tennis courts and the outdoor pool. Everyone has their place, you don’t get in each other’s way.

Nature Hotel Forsthofgut

Originating from a forestry business with a small pension, the house has become the epitome of closeness to nature and luxury in the Leogang mountains.

(Photo: Forsthofgut)

What is certain is that the Bachmair Weissach am Tegernsee is at the (mountain) peak of the alpine hotel industry. It is also certain that the Stanglwirt will continue to impress with innovations. Now I’m very excited to see how the Forsthofgut will develop over the next few months, independently of the new riding stables.

Rath’s Voyage Rating (current rating in bold):
1. Explicit Travel Warning
2. Better than under the bridge
3. So-so, not oh là là
4. Complaining at a high level
5. If only it were always like this
6. BIG CINEMA

About the author: As a former grand hotelier and operator of a travel platform, Carsten K. Rath is a professional globetrotter. He travels to all the hotels he writes about for the Handelsblatt on his own account. Rath is the source of ideas for the ranking “The 101 best hotels in Germany”, whose partners include the Handelsblatt.

More: Ranking “The 101 best hotels in Germany”: Four seasons of Hamburg and Schloss Elmau together at the top

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