"Seagschicht'n" from the Weihrerhof: Authentic, close to nature, future-oriented

The Ritten, the sunny plateau of South Tyrol, captivates with an extraordinary combination of landscapes: Vineyards on the lower slopes high alpine mountain formations like the Ritter Horn at 2260 meters, wide meadows where light gray cows graze, dense forests that now glow in all colors as autumn approaches, and clear mountain lakes. Like the Lake Wolfsgruben, on the shores of which the Pichler family from the Hotel Weihrerhof welcomes their guests.

Home: Ritten

Since the 1960s, guests have enjoyed the feeling of a "home away from home". However, the warm hospitality is not the only thing that sets the Weihrerhof apart. The deep connection to the Ritten and to South Tyrol can be felt in many loving details. In order to preserve the region and nature for their children, the Pichler family is committed to sustainability wherever possible.

It is not about perfection, but rather about just getting started, trying things out and constantly questioning and changing one's own actions.

Sustainability and Green Initiatives at Weihrerhof

Outside and Inside: Traditional, Natural, Modern

The Pichler family's sustainability initiatives include, for example, woodworking according to an almost forgotten regional craft. The long search for someone who still knows this trade paid off: the split softwood boards make the walkway to the spa a real eye-catcher. Locally sourced wood was used. Shingles crafted using the same technique were also used on the newly built boathouse sauna, giving the sauna and the cosy reading room next to it a unique look and feel. 

The architecture is traditionally South Tyrolean, especially recognisable in the special shape of the roof. Inside, guests can discover a special highlight: The beds are framed by the Weihrerhof's own hay. For this purpose, it was set in glass panels by a glass manufacturer, which decorate the wall behind the bed. The manufacturing process is normally used for fabrics and was specially adapted for the Weihrerhof.

Full of (Renewable) Energy

At Weihrerhof, the use of natural energy resources is a top priority. And it is to be increasingly expanded. The heart of the energy supply is in the old cattle shed: the storage for the electricity from the photovoltaic system. Furthermore, a combined heat and power unit that supplies the rooms is hidden in an unassuming shed next to the main building. A sign points out the CHP and calculates how many emissions are saved compared to conventional heating.

In addition to embracing their own responsibilities, the Pichlers also rely on the personal responsibility of their guests. "Most of the guests in this room have used their towel several times," is written on signs in the bathrooms and the relaxation room. The friendly reminder is having an effect: many guests do not exchange their towels every day.

Enjoy Regionally

But what changes daily with full dedication is the evening menu. However, a vegetarian dish is always offered and the ingredients come from the region as much as possible. The wine, for example, is made especially from Ritten grapes and can only be purchased there.

While guests dine à la carte in the evening, a sumptuous breakfast buffet with a variety of local products is available in the morning. Small cards indicate where the product comes from. In summer, it is best enjoyed on the terrace or on the small breakfast island in the middle of Wolfsgruben Lake.

Pure Relaxation Surrounded by Nature

The large sunbathing lawn directly on the shore of the Wolfsgrubener See offers plenty of space to relax while still being active. With its variety of plants, the meadow provides a habitat for small creatures. A large part of the meadow is left to itself and is only mown by a local farmer from time to time. 

Part of the food used in the hotel kitchen comes from their own small garden. The rest is bought on the Ritten, in South Tyrol or, if there is no other way, then in Italy.

Active in and around the hotel

Numerous hiking trails start right outside the hotel doors. And those further away are easily accessible with the Ritten train. With the RittenCard, which guests receive at the Weihrerhof, they can use public transportation including the cable car to Bolzano free of charge and also have free admission to many museums.

But also in the hotel itself, things don't get boring. A bestseller library offers guests access to the latest top books. These can be checked out on site or taken away and returned afterwards. Blind Dates are a special highlight: Selected works are packaged, accompanied by a short commentary from family or staff, and displayed as part of the bestseller library. As a guest, you can simply take one of the blind dates and be surprised by a book you might not otherwise have picked up.

Thinking and Acting with Foresight: Future Plans at the Weihrerhof

For the coming year, there are already more sustainable ideas, projects and green initiatives. In addition to the planned expansion of the solar plant, 2023 will be marked above all by the Sea Spa. Guests can already experience signature treatments here that were created especially for the Weihrerhof and are adapted to individual needs.

In the coming year, the spa concept will be supplemented and expanded. What the whole thing will look like, however, remains a secret!

This is how Klaus Pichler describes the philosophy of the Weihrerhof. He sees this not only as economic growth or spatial expansion of the hotel, but above all, growth in spirit. To keep on trying new things and to become more sustainable, both on a small and a large scale. 

Learn more about the Weihrerhof on the hotel page at Green Pearls® or the hotel's homepage.