Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Tyrolean Alps, Der Böglerhof is a winter wonderland that captivates the senses and offers a serene escape from the everyday hustle. Dating back to the 15th century, the 76-room Der Böglerhof is at the heart of Austria’s ‘most beautiful village’ Alpbach and has long welcomed guests to enjoy its stunning mountain location. As the snow blankets this charming village, this luxurious hotel unveils its cosy embrace, beckoning travellers to experience both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.
Staying at Der Böglerhof
Upon entering Der Böglerhof, guests are greeted with a warm ambience that feels like stepping into a storybook. The rustic elegance of the interiors, adorned with wood accents, plush furnishings and old black-and-white photos of yesteryear, creates an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
We were checked in by Monika, who gave us all the necessary information on the hotel and facilities. As the hotel dates back to the 15th century, it is made up of many parts, with the newest edition, Böglers Lodge which includes the Pure Nature Spa, being closely located to our room.
We were staying in a Superior double room Sonnjoch; spacious, quietly situated and a newly restyled bedroom. The room featured a comfortable double bed, ‘pillow-sleeping menu’, relaxation corner, writing/work table, radio, safe, flat TV, espresso machine and tea corner, south-facing balcony with a wonderful panoramic view of the mountain ’Großer Galtenberg’, plus a bathroom with shower, bathtub and separate toilet.
My favourite feature of the room was the view, we were so lucky to arrive at sunset, and watching the changing colours of the sky over the mountains from our luxurious bed was so romantic.
Pure Nature Spa at Der Böglerhof
The winter season at Böglerhof is not just about skiing—though the nearby slopes of Alpbach provide some of the best runs in Austria. The hotel offers a multitude of activities for all tastes. Adventurous spirits can partake in snowshoeing excursions, glide across the ice on a frozen pond, or embark on thrilling sledging adventures. For those seeking tranquillity, the hotel’s luxurious Pure Nature Spa invites guests to indulge in rejuvenating treatments, enveloped in the warmth of a vast modern spa while snowflakes dance outside.
So of course, after unpacking we immediately headed to this newest edition of the hotel to unwind and relax after our journey. This state-of-the-art adult spa with treatment rooms, saunas, and a yoga studio is likely to be one of the reasons that Der Boglerhof was awarded 5 Stars in 2024; the design, space, feel and ambience certainly has created one of the best alpine spas I have ever visited.
The heated outdoor pool seamlessly integrates into a natural swimming pond with breathtaking views of the Kitzbühel Alps beyond, all certainly very Instagramable. This space also houses a dedicated yoga studio, fully equipped with yoga mats and cushions, where a regular schedule of instructor-led classes takes place. True to its Tyrolean roots, there are also a host of spacious steam and sauna options including the dramatic ‘Event Sauna’, an infrared cabin, a bio sauna and a steam bath, all offering the chance to soothe muscles, promote vitality and enhance wellness in sophisticated surroundings.
Downstairs, four tranquil treatment rooms, each decorated in muted tones to create a welcome sense of calm, are served by a team of experienced therapists offering a range of soothing body, face and holistic treatments. Adam and I were lucky enough to experience a post-ski full body massage in this tranquil space, with my therapist Izaeblle being knowledgeable and highly capable of working out all those aches and pains.
Food and Beverage at Der Böglerhof
Dining at Böglerhof is a culinary journey that celebrates local flavours. The hotel’s restaurant showcases seasonal dishes crafted from the freshest regional ingredients, inviting guests to savour each bite against a backdrop of stunning mountain views. Imagine enjoying a hearty Tyrolean stew paired with a glass of local wine, all while the winter landscape transforms outside.
We were spoilt rotten at the restaurant thanks to Head Sommelier Hannes, son-in-law of the Moser-Duftner family, who has been custodians of Der Böglerhof since 1933. Alongside David and Christiane, we were treated like old friends visiting their home, with great food, great company and most importantly great wine.
All guest stays at Der Böglerhof are on a gourmet 3/4 board basis which includes an extravagant buffet breakfast, late light lunch and a five-course gourmet dinner. You can see in both the cuisine and the service that there is a deep understanding and respect for the provenance of the food, which is served with immense pride and attention to detail. We dined on everything from alpine classics to modern twists of European fayre, matched lovingly with wine from the impressive wine cellar.
While staying at Der Böglerhof we were lucky enough to experience a wine tasting with Head Sommelier Hannes in the cellar alongside some of his favourite wines. As someone who has also studied wine as a qualification, it was great to pick his brains on Austrian wine and the complexities of this region and the wine it produces. I would highly recommend anyone staying at Der Böglerhof spend at least one hour in the cellar with Hannes, his passion is abundant and you might learn something!
As the day winds down, the hotel’s cosy lounge and bar become the perfect setting for further relaxation. Curl up with a good book by the fireplace or engage in spirited conversation with fellow travellers and Bartender Alex at the bar. These enchanting evenings are often enhanced by live music, creating a festive atmosphere that lingers long after the last note fades. We loved nothing more than after dinner retiring to this space to decompress and sip an expertly crafted cocktail by the open fire – utter bliss.
So for those who dream of a winter escape filled with harm, adventure, and luxury, Der Böglerhof stands as a beacon of alpine hospitality. Whether you are carving turns on the slopes or sipping hot cocoa while gazing at the snow-capped peaks, this enchanting retreat promises memories that will warm your heart long after winter fades away.
Der Böglerhof – pure nature spa resort
Dorf 166
6236 Alpbach
Austria
