Naturhotel Forsthofgut, in Leogang, Austria, is an oasis for travelers seeking eco-conscious luxury amidst stunning Alpine landscapes. It is not only family-owned, but one of the best nature hotels in Austria.
Originally a forestry business, Forsthofgut has evolved over 400 years into a sanctuary for sustainable relaxation, seamlessly blending its rich history with modern environmental practices.
“As a former forestry business, Forsthofgut has always been closely connected to nature,” says Christoph Schmuck. He continues by saying that “It is our great concern not to overstrain nature and the environment, so that future generations can enjoy it as beautifully as we do today. We have two daughters, it is important to preserve the beauty of nature so that they can continue to enjoy it as much as we have in the past.”
Dedicated to preserving its natural surroundings, Forsthofgut leverages renewable energy, sustainable construction, and local resources to ensure a minimal ecological footprint, all while providing a welcoming haven for guests.
Their story
The Forsthofgut’s journey began in 1617 as a simple forestry operation. Since then generations of the Schmuck family have tended to this land, committed to its care and conservation.
In 1960, Rupert Schmuck and his wife, Rosmarie welcomed their first holiday guests by renting out two rooms, marking the beginning of their hospitality venture. The original house is still stand proudly by the entrance to the hotel.
Over the decades, the estate transformed into a luxury nature hotel, with significant milestones including the construction of the main house in 1990 and the addition of the waldSPA in 2011. Today, under the stewardship of Christoph and Christina Schmuck, Forsthofgut remains at the forefront of sustainable hospitality, offering travelers an intimate connection with nature. Read more about them here.
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Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Utilizes regional materials like wood, stone, and leather for construction.
- Collaborates with local companies to minimize environmental impact.
- Repurposes built-up land, such as for the Team Campus, without disturbing new land.
- Preserves a natural forest spanning nearly 90 acres
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Powered by geothermal, biomass, photovoltaic, and air-source heat pumps.
- Over 90% LED lighting and motion sensors to reduce energy usage.
- Pool cover system to conserve heat overnight.
Pioneer in waste management
- Zero-waste philosophy: “nose to tail, root to leaf” for food sourcing.
- Water-saving turbines in showers and a new waste system reducing pickups from 20 to 3 times per month.
- Plastic-free rooms, with a focus on biodegradable materials.
- 98% of invoices digitally, digitalized check-in and check-out, remaining paper use is covered with FSC-certified materials.
- Waste-free delicacies market which is part of the hotel’s all-inclusive breakfast service.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Green-certified cleaning products and sanitary products like toilet paper and handpaper from Hagleitner’s “greenovative” line.
- Spa treatments using natural ingredients, packaged sustainably in glass.
- Own an organic farm called Mauthof in Leogang.
- 70% of vegetables comes directly from a local organic farm.
- Cooperation with many local farmers to get regional products like fish, vegetables, cheese, dairy products, and meat. For example: vegetables from “Stechaubauer,” dairy products from “Mei Much”, or cheese from “Sinnlehenhof”.
- Offering a dinner menu called R50 with only local ingredients from a radius of 50km (31 miles).
Actively protects nature and community
- Hosts tree-planting events and litter clean-ups with guests and the children’s club.
- Supports local farmers, artisans, and social causes through the Forsthofgut Foundation.
- Support projects like Wings4Life.
- Prioritizes local hires and staff training
- Building a Team Campus to foster community connection and education.
Most Popular Activities near Naturhotel Forsthofgut
- Hike scenic trails in the Leogang Mountains, suitable for all levels
- Visit Asitz Mountain’s Senses Park and Puzzle Hunt
- Attend a guided forest bathing
- Mountain bike in Austria’s largest bike park with direct access to trails
- Ski and snowboard in the Leogang-Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Fieberbrunn ski area
- Relax in the waldSPA, featuring an adults-only area, family pools, and a natural swimming lake
- Try the Japanese dining experience at “Mizumi” or fine dining at “echt. gut essen”
- Take a dip in the onsen pool with breathtaking views of the Alps
- Enjoy family-friendly activities, including kids’ woodwork shop, art studio, horse riding, petting zoo, treehouse and more.
- Participate in tree-planting and educational activities focused on sustainability
Best Time To Visit Naturhotel Forsthofgut
- Spring: The blooming Alpine meadows and mild temperatures make spring ideal for scenic hikes and wildlife spotting.
- Summer: The warm days provide perfect conditions for mountain biking, hiking, and outdoor activities.
- Autumn: The crisp air and vibrant foliage create a picturesque setting to enjoy the spa facilities.
- Winter: The snow-covered slopes and ski-in/ski-out access make winter the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and cozy spa experiences.