The Niche Traveller's
Journal
TRENDING HOTELS & VILLAS
24.02.2025
Coolcation Calling: 7 Reasons Why Naturhotel Forsthofgut Is Worth the Hype
I know I’m a bit late to the party, but after a three-day stay in Leogang, Austria, I’ve officially become a Forsthofgut fan. Now I can join the conversation when our club members (many of them loyal regulars) gush about why a hotel like this doesn’t exist on Sylt or elsewhere in the world. While we can’t answer that, here are seven reasons that have truly impressed and surprised me about Forsthofgut.
Written by:

Kerstin Bognár
CEO and Founder


1. Hassle-Free Arrival & Direct Access to the Slopes
Unlike many Alpine retreats that are tucked away and only accessible by car, Naturhotel Forsthofgut in the Salzburg region offers effortless travel options. Transfers from Salzburg Airport are often included in your package, and with direct flights from major German cities - and even from London and Dubai - getting here is a breeze. For those arriving by train, complimentary pickups from nearby stations add extra convenience. Most guests drive and park in the hotel’s garage, then stroll directly to the gondola station. With “ski in, ski out” access to the expansive Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn ski area (reaching up to 2,096 meters and catering to all skill levels), every day is a win - whether you’re carving down the slopes or switching to mountain biking in the summer.

2. Leave Everyday Life Behind & Embrace New Experiences
Once you step into Forsthofgut, almost every decision is taken care of, allowing you to truly let go. Whether you’re in the mood to relax, get active, read a book, play table tennis with the kids, or shop in their own boutiques, there’s always something fresh to try. I even treated myself to my first-ever horseback riding lesson and joined a guided family walk with alpacas - experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone and left me feeling invigorated.

3. An Abundance of Activities for Every Fitness Level
Forsthofgut impresses with its extensive sports and wellness offerings. With a wide variety of courses - from fitness and yoga to high-intensity training and meditation - even a small group is enough to kick off a session. I unexpectedly joined a calisthenics class with the energetic trainer Gitti, and although I was wiped out afterward, I felt fantastic the next day - ready to hit the slopes without a hint of soreness. Add to that a modern gym, an adults-only open-air pool, and even a top-notch equestrian center, and you have every reason to stay active year-round.

4. Exquisite Dining & Drinks, 007-Style
Prepare to be wowed by Forsthofgut’s culinary scene. The hotel offers a superb half-board option—including a lavish breakfast buffet, an afternoon snack, and an exquisite five-course dinner—plus three à la carte restaurants. Savor Japanese delights at Mizumi, indulge in fine dining at Restaurant Silva, or enjoy traditional cuisine in the rustic ambiance of 1617 (a nod to the hotel’s founding year when it was a working farm). With thoughtfully crafted children’s menus at every venue, dining here is a delight for the whole family. And whether you choose to be served at the table for breakfast or savor a perfectly brewed coffee from the in-house espresso bar, every meal is a treat. The Botanist Bar, with its extensive drink selection and signature cocktails (developed with Vienna’s Apotheke Saint Charles), brings a dash of James Bond sophistication to your evening.

5. A Truly Multigenerational Experience
At Forsthofgut, every guest - no matter their age or background - feels welcome. The warm hospitality of the staff ensures that everyone, from infants to seniors and even furry friends, receives the attention they need. With childcare at Rocky´s kidsclub available from the age of two and optional dog-sitting services, families are well accommodated. Solo travellers and single parents also find their niche here, as spaces are designed to suit everyone’s needs. Whether you’re looking for family time or a bit of “me-time” in the waldSPA, Forsthofgut’s international and inclusive atmosphere makes every stay memorable.

Art and Co-Working at Forsthofgut
Until now, we haven't talked much about the owners, but it's time to introduce them. Christina and Christoph Schmuck - owners, hosts, and parents of two daughters - not only have an exceptional talent for hospitality but also a deep passion for art and interior design. It wasn’t until the day after my arrival that I truly noticed: art is everywhere. Nearly every wall in the hotel is adorned with artwork. A closer look, especially in the lobby, made me pause - was that really a piece by Anselm Kiefer? That discovery led me on an impromptu gallery tour, carefully inspecting every wall. As I later learned, the collection is a mix of owned pieces and loans, featuring impressive works such as sculptures by Erwin Wurm and pieces by Marc Brandenburg, Martha Jungwirth, and other renowned artists. Some of these works are displayed in a stylish co-working space just behind the lobby - a beautifully designed room with chic furniture and large windows. It’s a perfect spot for guests who like to stay connected and work from anywhere, surrounded by inspiring art.

7. Visit in Summer – It Gets Even Better
Even a renowned hotel must continue to evolve. By June 2025, Naturhotel Forsthofgut will unveil brand-new, exclusive room categories designed for discerning guests and large families who seek privacy and ultimate comfort. The newly designed Family Luxury Suites impress with their timeless elegance and high-quality materials. The two-story Mountain Loft Suites, spanning 140 square meters, accommodate families of 4 to 8 guests and feature a private outdoor sauna and hot tub. Each suite includes a master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet, plus two additional bedrooms - perfect for spacious, luxurious stays. Art will also play a key role in these new suites, with unique pieces personally curated by the Schmuck family from renowned artists. For bookings and pre-reservations, contact Naturhotel Forsthofgut directly or reach out to us.
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