Where silence resides.
Here, where nature embraces the castle. Where silence resides. Where the hustle and bustle of everyday life fades into the background if but for a moment, and the springtime quietly makes its arrival.
Whether at Villa Le Barone, nestled in the gentle hills of Tuscany, at Schlossmühle Glottertal, deep in the heart of the Black Forest, at Hotel Hirschen Schwarzenberg, surrounded by the pristine beauty of the Bregenz Forest, at Schloss Kapfenstein, majestically overlooking the Styrian vineyards, or at Schloss Englar, a late-Gothic jewel amidst the picturesque vineyards of South Tyrol – these five hideaways are more than just retreats. They are silent witnesses to spring. Here, the awakening of nature is especially tangible. In every ray of sunlight warming the ancient walls, in every bud cautiously opening to the world, and in the gentle whisper of the wind carrying the scent of fresh earth and blossoming fruit trees. An invitation to surrender to the slowness, to breathe in the silence, and to experience spring in its purest form.


Villa Le Barone: Tuscan Lightness amidst the Chianti Hills
When the first rays of sunlight bathe the gentle hills of Tuscany in golden light, Villa Le Barone comes to life anew. Once the summer residence of the noble Della Robbia family, it is now a stylish refuge filled with tranquility, charm, and Italian joie de vivre.
Situated within a sprawling estate, the villa offers a harmonious blend of history, nature, and relaxed luxury. Fragrant lavender bushes, shade-giving chestnut trees, and Mediterranean plants line the picturesque gardens that wrap around the estate like a green ribbon. Strolling through the property, you discover cozy hideaways nestled between rose bushes and centuries-old trees – perfect spots to savor spring and let your gaze wander. Sunsets are especially magical when the sky glows in warm hues and the Tuscan hill country is bathed in a soft twilight. For those wishing to explore the region, Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano are just a short drive away.
The Taste of Spring in Tuscany
The cuisine at Villa Le Barone is a veritable homage to the culinary traditions of Chianti. Fresh, regional, and seasonal ingredients form the basis of authentic dishes. The food is simple yet refined – perfect for enjoying spring with all your senses.
A glass of Chianti under the cypresses
One of Italy’s oldest wine-growing regions, the Chianti area is inseparably linked to Villa Le Barone. Its in-house wine cellar harbors a fine selection of the best vintages from renowned wineries such as Antinori, Fontodi, and Fonterutoli. In addition to classic Chianti wines, there are also exclusive Super Tuscans – powerful reds crafted with innovative grape varieties and modern production techniques. Enjoying a glass under the villa’s cypress trees is the perfect way to end a day in Tuscany.


Schlossmühle Glottertal: Black Forest Idyll with Character
Deep in the heart of the Black Forest, on the banks of a small river, lies Schlossmühle Glottertal – a boutique hotel with 900 years of history. Once a mill, now a haven for stylish relaxation, this property charmingly combines its historical heritage with contemporary design. Host Hansjörg Gutmann, the fourth generation of his family to run the Schlossmühle, does so with a keen sense of tradition, aesthetics, and meticulous attention to detail.
Experience Nature in the Glottertal
Spring in the Glottertal is a feast for the senses. Practically right at your doorstep, the hiking paradise that is the Southern Black Forest begins, with trails winding through sun-dappled forests and over sunny hilltops. The first buds begin to open, and the scent of fresh earth mingles with the delicate green of the vineyards awakening from their own winter slumber. A walk along the banks of the Glotter or through the surrounding vineyards brings the beauty of the season even more vividly to life. And for those eager to explore slightly farther afield, Freiburg, Alsace, or even the Swiss Alps can all be reached in the course of a day trip.
The morning sets the tone: Breakfast at the Schlossmühle
Every bit as delightful as actively exploring, is taking a moment simply to pause. Breakfast at Schlossmühle Glottertal is not merely served – it is celebrated. Until 11 a.m., guests enjoy select delicacies in a stylish atmosphere: in the Blue Parlor, in the cozy Stube beneath fabric installation, or in the legendary dining room with its Red Table. And when the morning sun bathes the idyllic garden in golden light, enjoying breakfast outdoors becomes the most beautiful start to the day imaginable – a moment of perfect tranquility and enjoyment, in harmony with the rhythm of spring.
Package Offer for Your Spring Holiday
Enjoy spring in Glottertal with a personal retreat at the Schlossmühle: Two nights of peace and pure indulgence, including breakfast, from €175 per person. Valid until June 27, 2025.
Spring in Glottertal


Hotel Hirschen Schwarzenberg: The Bregenz Forest in its most beautiful form
In the heart of picturesque Schwarzenberg stands Hotel Hirschen, an inn rich in history, run by Peter and Pia Fetz. Since 1755, it has been a symbol of genuine hospitality, Alpine elegance, and a home-away-from-home for travelers, artists, and connoisseurs.
Spring Experiences in the Bregenz Forest
In springtime, the Bregenz Forest reveals its most beautiful side: Lush meadows, blossoming fruit trees, and crisp mountain air turn every hike into pure enchantment. Right outside the front door of Hotel Hirschen, hiking trails lead through burgeoning nature and offer unforgettable views. One particularly special experience is the hike up the Brüggelekopf, where you are rewarded with panoramic views extending all the way to Lake Constance.
Springtime on a Plate
The three-toque and green Michelin-starred cuisine of Restaurant Hirschen is a tribute to the region – sustainable, creative, and deeply rooted in the traditions of the Bregenz Forest. In spring, the lightness of the season finds its way onto the menu: Tender herbs, fresh root vegetables, and the first flavors of the young harvest shape the dishes. The focus is always on the subtle and refined, on the specially selected. Alongside exquisite ingredients, traditional techniques such as fermenting and smoking do their part to celebrate the culinary identity of the establishment.

Schloss Kapfenstein: Above the Rooftops of the Styrian Vulkanland Region
Enthroned atop an extinct volcano high above the vineyards of Styria, Schloss Kapfenstein has countless stories to tell whilst affording breathtaking views of the surrounding region.
For generations, the castle has been run by the Winkler-Hermaden family, acclaimed not only for their warm hospitality but also for their outstanding winery Here, wines are crafted that are more than an expression of the landscape. They tell of a centuries-old tradition, the winemaker’s meticulous care, and a profound respect for nature. Through organic farming and a fine sensitivity for the unique characteristics of the terroir, noble wines are cultivated that capture the spirit of Schloss Kapfenstein in every nuance.
Picnic between Grape Vines and Magical Panoramas
When spring awakens the Vulkanland region, it is the vineyards that first display their delicate green. One true highlight is a picnic in the midst of those vineyards, offered from mid-April to the end of October. With a basket full of regional delicacies and a bottle of estate-grown wine, guests can relax at picturesque vantage points on the Kapfensteiner Kogel, observing as spring unfurls itself across the landscape.
Active in Springtime
The countryside surrounding Schloss Kapfenstein reveals its unique charm to the fullest in springtime. Whether hiking through blooming vineyards, cycling along picturesque wine routes, or exploring historic castles and idyllic villages – it is the awakening nature itself which provides the perfect backdrop for discoveries that are certain to delight.


Schloss Englar: Gothic Charm between Vineyards and Gardens
Enthroned high above the valley, nestled amidst gentle vineyards and blossoming orchards, Schloss Englar is a jewel of South Tyrolean Late-Gothic owned by the Khuen-Belasi family for nearly 400 years. Here, where history and nature merge in perfect harmony, guests are greeted by a sanctuary of authenticity and timeless elegance.
Spring in the Vineyards – When the Vines Awaken
As spring spreads across the Überetsch, a new chapter begins in the vineyards of Schloss Englar. The vines awaken from their winter slumber, laying the groundwork for the new vintage. First buds sprout, and the rolling vineyards radiate in a fresh green. Guests can experience the vineyards during their most vibrant phase, watch the winemakers at work, participate in tastings, and learn about the organic production techniques employed by the estate’s own winery. The wines of Schloss Englar, themselves cultivated according to organic principles, reflect the character of the region – whether a fresh Sauvignon Blanc or an elegant Blauburgunder, each sip tells of the power of nature and the unique terroir of South Tyrol.
Between Culture and Nature
It isn’t only the vines that are coming to life; the surrounding nature awakens as well: Apple trees bloom in their full splendor, wildflowers paint colorful accents across the meadows, and warm sunlight bathes the castle in golden light. Schloss Englar is the ideal starting point for spring hikes through the gently rolling wine-growing region or excursions to the nearby Montiggler Lakes, their waters sparkling in the spring sunshine. Those who prefer to linger can relax in the shaded courtyard under the ancient cedars or immerse themselves in the castle’s rich history within the historic Knights’ Hall.
Package Offer for Your Spring Escape
An exclusive spring offer invites guests to linger and relish every single moment: With the “4=3 Spring Special,” guests enjoy four nights for the price of three. Valid from April 1 to May 31, 2025.
Spring Offer 4=3

Between ancient walls and blooming gardens, gentle hills and broad vineyards: Five hideaways, five places – and countless ways to enjoy spring in its purest form.