Culinary Journey of Discovery
6 Schlosshotels for exceptional culinary enjoyment
Schlosshotels & Herrenhäuser melds the magic of the past with a passion for finest cuisine. Each of our establishments not only tells a story etched in time, but also reveals a world of extraordinary taste, deeply rooted in regional traditions combined with innovative culinary approaches. In this blog article, we will whisk you away on a gourmet journey to six different Schlosshotels that have dedicated themselves to epicurean excellence.
From the gentle hill country of Kamptal to the pulsating heart of the Black Forest, each location offers a unique combination of historic ambience and gastronomic finesse. The Hirschen Schwarzenberg, for example, where a young kitchen crew led by Jonathan Burger experiments with regional ingredients and fermentation techniques brought from Japan in order to create extraordinary flavor experiences. Similarly, Heurigenhof Bründlmayer, fostering close ties to the acclaimed Weingut Bründlmayer winery, attracts connoisseurs with its exquisite selection of wines and dishes.
The Alte Post in the Black Forest convinces with fresh, regional cuisine enhanced by ingredients from local Demeter- and organic-certified farms, whilst Gasthof Herrnhaus in Tyrol unites traditional hospitality with superb cuisine. And let us not forget Stiegl-Gut Wildshut and the Paracelsusstube, both of which are part of the Stiegl universe and combine culinary innovation with brewing artistry that is second to none.
Accompany us on this route of pure delectation, where every dish has a story to tell, and each glass of wine captures the very soul of the region. With us, discover places where culinary delights and a historical backdrop fuse into an unforgettable experience.
Hotel Hirschen Schwarzenberg - Showroom for the good life
Hirschen Schwarzenberg is dedicated to nothing less than the good life itself. Under the leadership of Peter & Pia Fetz, together with the young culinary team led by Jonathan Burger and Raphaela Wirrer, the Hirschen, built in the Bregenzerwald in 1755, reaches new heights. In this storied establishment, regional cuisine, creative fermentation techniques, and a sustainable concept merge to present an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
A Served Breakfast à la Carte
At the Hirschen Schwarzenberg, the day begins with a breakfast that sets new standards. Instead of a traditional buffet, guests choose from an à la carte menu designed to drastically reduce food waste, achieving a remarkable 90% reduction in discarded foodstuffs. Each dish is freshly prepared and showcases a range of local specialties that delight both the eye and the palate. This practice not only conserves resources but also ensures that every bite reflects freshness and the highest quality.
Ham Spa and Fermentation Cellar
A highlight of the Hirschen Schwarzenberg is the unique Ham Spa, a space dedicated to the aging of air-dried Duroc and Berkshire ham. This creative approach to meat processing demonstrates the hotel's deep commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. The adjacent fermentation cellar provides space for creating and maturing koji-based seasoning sauces, misos, and garums that add distinctive depth to the dishes served at the hotel. Guests can tour these facilities and participate in tastings to gain a thorough understanding of the techniques and products used.
One of a Kind: The Spa Robe Bar
With painstaking care, the Hirschen has created a new oasis of well-being. A new bathhouse with a year-round (ecologically heated!) pool has been added to the Hirschen ensemble. An underground walkway leads from the Wälderhaus and the newly designed "Hirschen Homes" directly to the spa area. And since it is not appropriate to site at the regular hotel bar in a spa robe, a new spot has been created: the Spa Robe Bar. Here, guests can grab a fine bottle from the wine cabinet and enjoy the good life before taking a refreshing dip or warming up in the pool, depending on the season.
Heurigenhof Bründlmayer - Culinary Elegance
In the heart of Langenlois, one of Austria's most acclaimed wine-growing regions, Heurigenhof Bründlmayer captivates with a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance. This picturesque Renaissance ensemble not only houses a fine restaurant, but also offers three charming apartments that feature a mix of Austrian design, Baroque furniture, and unique vintage pieces. Here, culinary enthusiasts can delight in a cuisine that celebrates regional flavors, perfectly complemented by hand-selected wines from their own vineyards.
Return of Chef Matthias Schütz
After honing his skills and earning a star in France, Chef Matthias Schütz returns to the Heurigenhof with a wealth of experience from his 12 years of culinary travels. His expertise is evident in every dish, where selected ingredients are transformed with simplicity and profound emotion, proving that the essence of fine French cuisine can thrive in any setting.
Vintner's Breakfast in Your Room
Imagine beginning your day in the comfort of your own room, greeted by a lovingly set breakfast table and freshly baked sourdough bread hanging at your door. Heurigenhof Bründlmayer elevates the morning experience with its Vintner's Breakfast, allowing guests to enjoy every moment without having to step outside, ensuring a wonderful start to the day.
Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour
Discover the Kamptal wine region with a variety of tasting experiences offered by the Heurigenhof. Whether you're exploring a diverse selection of wines and sparkling wines with sommelier Albert Schreibeis or exploring the terroir firsthand on an off-road vehicle tour around the iconic Heiligenstein, guests have a unique opportunity to taste their wines for themselves and learn more about them. The afternoon can be spent touring Bründlmayer's wine cellar, where you can uncover the secrets behind the exceptional wines and maybe even catch a glimpse of the bustling activity.
Picnic in the Vineyard
For those seeking a serene escape, Heurigenhof Bründlmayer invites guests to relax and unwind in the vineyard. This idyllic setting provides the perfect backdrop for a picnic, where you can enjoy Bründlmayer sparkling wines, light summer wines, and non-alcoholic refreshments, complemented by delicacies such as deboned fried chicken from the Heurigenhof kitchen.
Alte Post Mühlheim - Sustainable Cuisine
Nestled in the lush nature of the Black Forest and surrounded by the finest vineyards of Baden, the Alte Post in Mühlheim offers more than just a place to stay: it is a space for the joy of living, epicurean pleasure, and sustainability. This family-run organic hotel, proud of its pioneering role as Germany's first eco-friendly hotel, skillfully combines traditional hospitality with a visionary approach to ecology and cuisine. Open the windows, take a deep breath, and let your gaze wander over the blooming farmhouse garden, as you focus on what’s truly important – savoring the very essence of every experience.
Authentic Black Forest Cuisine in the Hebelstube and Garden Restaurant
At the inviting restaurants of the Alte Post – the cozy Hebelstube and the idyllic Garden Restaurant – authentic and diverse dishes are served that meet highest culinary expectations. The focus is on fresh, natural ingredients from the region, of outstanding quality and carefully selected in close collaboration with local producers.
Organic Restaurant – Modern Meets Tradition
Under the direction of talented head chef Pierre-Marie Barrel, who has gained international experience in renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, guests are treated to true culinary masterpieces. At the core of the restaurant is a respectful, sustainable approach to nature and its precious resources. The dishes pay homage to traditional cuisine, enriched with modern influences and a dash of French refinement, creating surprising taste experiences.
Wine from the Markgräflerland: Artful Enjoyment
In the Markgräflerland region, known for its top-notch vineyards and close proximity to the Black Forest, the Hotel Alte Post offers an unparalleled wine experience. The hotel's wine list, selected by renowned U.S. magazine "Wine Spectator" as one of the top 60 in Germany, reflects a deep connection to local wine traditions. The selection includes wines sourced directly from the adjacent Markgräflerland – a region prized for its mild climatic conditions and fruity wine varieties. Guests of the Alte Post have the opportunity to savor these excellent wines, whether during a personally guided tasting in the historic wine cellar or while relaxing in the idyllic atmosphere of the Garden Rrestaurant. Each wine is comprehensively presented to illustrate the connection between the terroir and the individual flavor profiles.
Paracelsusstube, Wildshut & Beer Brewing: A Culinary Journey Through Stiegl World in Three Acts
The Stiegl world unfolds as a stage of enjoyment and tradition, where each chapter of the narrative is deeply rooted in Austrian culture. The journey through this rich culinary and brewing heritage begins at the Paracelsusstube, a historic restaurant that combines elegance with rustic charm. Here, ingredients that reflect the bounty of the seasons and come from the immediate surroundings are used, allowing each dish to recount its own unique story.
A few kilometers away, visitors discover Stiegl-Gut Wildshut, Austria's first beer estate. It stands as a model of a sustainable circular economy, also a proud member of the Slow Food movement. This estate combines the art of brewing with exceptional gastronomy.
The crowning conclusion comes in the form of the Stiegl-Brauwelt Museum Tour. Here, visitors are given authentic insights into the venerable art of beer brewing.
Paracelsusstube – A Feast of Flavors and Beers
In the heart of Stiegl-Brauwelt Salzburg, surrounded by centuries of brewing tradition, the Paracelsusstube combines timeless Austrian hospitality with a passion for excellent beer. Here, where culinary heritage meets contemporary interpretations, the restaurant serves dishes enriched with seasonal, organic products from its own farm and nearby Wildshut.
Sourced from the lush pastures of Pinzgau, the beef not only comes as a tasty rarity on the plate but also tells the story of a sustainable "nose to tail" philosophy. Each meal is enhanced with herbs from the Brauwelt's own garden, adding a fresh, earthy note to the dishes.
The food is not the only highlight; the beer pairings, carefully selected by certified beer sommeliers, are also exceptional. These experts masterfully match each dish with the perfect beer to create a harmonious whole, making every bite and sip a unique epicurean experience. Whether you are enjoying a traditional wiener schnitzel or savoring a modern creation, the Paracelsusstube guarantees an authentic and unforgettable dining experience in the world of Austrian cuisine and brewing.
Stiegl-Gut Wildshut – Pioneering Spirit in Brewing
Located about 35 kilometers north of Salzburg, the idyllic Stiegl-Gut Wildshut blends the art of brewing with an extraordinary commitment to circular economy and sustainable cuisine. As Austria's first beer estate and a proud member of the Slow Food movement, Wildshut offers a unique insight into the world of organic farming and ecological responsibility. At the heart of the estate is the "Kramerladen", an organic restaurant known for its innovative, seasonal dishes. Here, only organic ingredients are used, either grown on the estate itself or sourced from carefully selected regional partners.
A Brunch Experience: The Wildshut Time-Out
On a regular basis, the estate hosts its "Wildshut Time-Out," a brunch that celebrates the rich palette of its own organic products. In five served courses, guests not only enjoy the culinary creations of the house but also the unique organic beers from Wildshut that accompany each meal. This experience offers a perfect opportunity to explore the deep connection between agriculture, brewing, and gastronomy.
The All-Wood Brewery: Craftsmanship and Tradition
Another highlight of Stiegl-Gut Wildshut is the all-wood brewery, the first of its kind in Austria. Here, beer is not only brewed, but a piece of culture is lived and celebrated. The brewery utilizes traditional wooden construction methods and local woods to ensure environmentally friendly production. The beer varieties "Hopfenherz," "Malzreigen," and "Sortenspiel" embody the estate's philosophy of brewing as a craft and nature as a source of inspiration.
Definitely not to be overlooked is the distillery on the estate, where high-quality spirits are distilled from their own organic beers. The organic hop gin and the single malt whiskey are just two examples of the premium distillates that Wildshut has to offer. Each of these products tells a story of quality, sustainability, and deep respect for nature.
Stiegl-Gut Wildshut is not only a place of enjoyment but also a pioneer in sustainable production and a circular economy. A visit there offers insights into the world of beers and organic spirits, as well as a comprehensive experience in sustainable living and culinary excellence.
Stiegl-Brauwelt Museum Tour: A Window into the Tradition of Brewing
Since the year 1492, the year Christopher Columbus discovered America, the Stiegl Brewery in Salzburg has been brewing beer. This deeply rooted history comes vividly to life at Stiegl-Brauwelt, where visitors can discover the secrets of traditional brewing during a captivating museum tour. The tour through Austria's oldest and largest private brewery offers not only educational insights but also a journey through centuries of brewing artistry.
Experiences to Excite Every Beer Lover's Heart
The guided tour starts at 10:30 AM and first takes visitors to the 270° Stiegl-Brau Cinema, a multimedia presentation that ignites the senses and provides an initial impression of the dynamic brewing culture here at Stiegl. The tour then continues through the exhibition rooms of Stiegl-Brauwelt, where each step you take reveals more about the fascinating history of beer brewing and the evolution of brewing techniques.
Insight into the Production Plant & Beer Tasting
One highlight of the tour is a visit to the modern production plant. Here, visitors experience firsthand how traditional Stiegl beer is brewed with dedication and state-of-the-art technology. The combination of time-honored methods with innovative techniques makes this tour a truly insightful experience. No brewery tour would be complete without the opportunity to taste the fruits of the brewing art. The beer tasting offers a selection of the finest Stiegl beers, accompanied by explanatory notes from trained beer sommeliers who provide deeper insights into the characteristics of each beer. As a memento of this enriching experience, participants receive a small souvenir from the Brew Shop.
A Special Tip: Gasthof Herrnhaus
At the entrance to Alpbachtal, where time seems to stand still and tradition is deeply woven into everyday life, lies Gasthof Herrnhaus – a place that has cultivated the art of hospitality over the course of centuries. Since 1416, this historic inn has provided a haven for travelers and gourmets, today led by the Moigg family, whose dedication to culinary heritage is reflected in each and every meal. Crowned with a Gault Millau toque, the Herrnhaus is more than just an inn; it is a stage where regional cuisine and creative innovations meet in total harmony. Wild game hunted on their own grounds and herbs grown in their garden are just a few examples of the unwavering commitment to quality and freshness that Lukas Moigg, the chef and scion of the hosting family, brings vibrantly to life. Each dish has a story to tell, from the careful selection of ingredients to the artful preparation that blends traditional Tyrolean recipes with a touch of cosmopolitan flair. While always staying true to its roots, the Herrnhaus also fearlessly integrates modern accents that expand the boundaries of local culinary artistry.
The house's wine cellar, a treasure trove filled with over 200 carefully selected wines, provides the perfect complement to their culinary compositions. Whether in the rustic, wood-paneled parlors or under the chestnut trees of the enchanting outdoor dining area, life can be enjoyed to the fullest. Here, in this idyllic setting, a simple meal becomes a celebration, enhanced by the unobtrusive yet attentive hospitality that has defined the Herrnhaus for generations. Under Lukas Moigg, the Herrnhaus has not only maintained, but also further refined its culinary vision, confirmed by a Gault & Millau toque awarded in 2020. Such recognition attests to both the excellence of the dishes offered and the ongoing commitment to a cuisine that touches both the palate and the soul.
To Take with You – More Culinary Highlights from Schlosshotels
More Culinary Highlights from Schlosshotels
1. Boutique & Gourmet Hotel Orso Grigio - Enjoy magnificent dishes in South Tyrol. The extensive wine cellar, with over 250 labels, reflects the great passion of owner Franz Ladinser.
2. Parkhotel Holzner - At Restaurant 1908 in Oberbozen, which has been awarded a Michelin star, marvelous culinary masterpieces await you.
3. Landgasthof Linde - Known for its brilliant Tyrolean inn-style cuisine that celebrates tradition and quality.
4. Restaurant at the See-Villa on Millstätter See - Recently remodeled and about to reopen, this restaurant offers excellent cuisine in a peerless lakeside setting.
5. Strasserwirt in Strassen - An address for exquisite gourmet cuisine that makes every visit a special event.
6. Platzhirsch in Kufstein - Experience the ambience of a Viennese café in the Tyrolean Alps.
7. Landhaus Koller - Known for its excellent cuisine that includes both local and innovative dishes.
8. Hotel Schloss Lerchenhof - Here, slow food is a major focus, with an emphasis on sustainable and local products.
Discover these and other culinary gems amongst our Schlosshotels by clicking on this link to all historic restaurants.
