The metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly: Biohotel Sturm
The Biohotel Sturm in the Biosphere Reserve Rhön is characterized by the philosophy of the family Schulz Dieckhoff: Sustainable management, ecological standards and the observance of ethical principles are no lip services for the engaged hosts, but lived daily.
How it all began …
Already since the middle of the 80s Christa Sturm and her husband Matthias Schulze Dieckhoff were part of the hotel which was built by Christa's parents. Only when they took over the management completely in 1996 and finally bought the hotel in 2004, their multifaceted ideas for the modernization and enlargement could be implemented step by step. Initially inspired by economic thoughts of energy savings, other steps soon followed already impressing a sustainable approach. "In our everyday life we always think about the impact of things and how everything clings together. Once started, it is as if to put on new glasses," describes Matthias Schulz Dieckhoff.
Sturm reloaded
One of the first changes: The façade of the building for which they often apologized at the beginning of their career was renovated. Instead of the former red brick the "Sturm tower" shines in white with its mineral lime muds surface. A modern wood paneling not only decorates the renovated lobby area, but also the restaurant. Throughout all changes it was a matter always to connect tradition and modernity instead of just substitute. Thus the former Zirbelstube was transformed to a comfortable reading zone, in the hotel restaurant schulze|s the old tables were revalued and well known beside modern accessories create a harmonious image.
Open-air swimming in Granderwasser
For a long time Christa and Matthias wanted to build a swimming pool for their hotel. At first the budget was missing, then they decided for a swimming pond and discovered very fast the advantages and the force of a natural swimming experience. The bath pond is completely free of chemistry; the ecosystem of the pond full with Granderwasser provides the excellent water quality which is checked regularly.
From zero to hundred
In 2011 followed another extensive decision: within only few days the conversion to 100% organic was realized in the kitchen. Chef Hartwig Buss, a former habitué of the hotel, was present enthusiastically from the beginning. The ingredients predominantly and whenever possible are sourced from bio-producers directly from the region. The passion for food always stands in the foreground. Jam, chutney, syrup and more is produced by the Slow Food Member from fruits and vegetables of the own nibbling garden. The garden is also open to all guests and invites for trying and staying.
Team achievement
Christa and Matthias are also inspired by their team: two landscape gardeners set up the herbal and nibbling garden. Both of them offer bread baking and herb courses on a regular basis for the guests. The annual Christmas firs for the decoration are planted back by the employees until they are used for the next Christmas celebration, Yoga-Retreats and courses take place regularly either directly outside at the pond or in the special yoga room.
Rest and relaxation in the Rhön
The Biosphere Reserve Rhön awarded by UNESCO is not overrun yet, although it is a true paradise for outdoors lovers and active vacationers loving rest and seclusion. After a vast wandering or mountain bike tour the extensive wellness area of the Biohotel Sturm with log cabin-outside saunas, natural bath pond, steam bath, natural makeup applications, fresh air grotto and massages awaits the guests. Holistic relaxation for body, mind and soul surrounded by nature and a view of the fields. "Just in front of our door one of the nicest and most exciting nature regions of Europe begins: the Biosphere Reserve Rhön. To preserve the beauty of this great scenery and to take over responsibility — for person and environment, also for the coming generations — this is our motivation," describe Christa and Matthias.
More about the Biohotel Sturm
