Burrowed into the grassy slopes of Austria’s pristine snow-capped mountains, not far from the idyllic village of Zug, Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel offers an unparalleled and eminently noted Alpine culinary experience. Yet beyond the gastronomic heights proposed by the establishment, a well rounded array of fresh air adventures allow patrons to enjoy the outdoors, either in winter for skiing, winter hiking, cross-country skiing and wellness or in summer for climbing, hiking, mountain biking. It goes without saying that all one needs, from bike rental to ski repair, is available onsite. Luckily all activities provide a healthy appetite to fully enjoy the other prime aspect of your sejour: the food!
On my latest of numerous visits I was once again impressed by the propositions of the talented under-30 chef Julian Stieger at the hotel’s Chef’s Table restaurant. The contemporary chic dining experience elevates Alpine cuisine to unprecedented standards of subtle creativity, blending traditional ingredients with a modern sensibility acquired from his experiences at renowned establishments such as New York’s Eleven Madison Park and Copenhagen’s Geranium. The culinary ethos of Rote Wand, is centred on ingredient-first philosophy, balance, and finesse, is reflected in every aspect of the dining experience, epitomising care and precision.
Rote Wand is a champion in farm-to-table excellence. The establishment includes a mini ecosystem of supply and creation including the chef’s table restaurant, traditional Rote Wand Stuben eatery, as well as a full range of culinary facilities, including a fromagerie, charcutier, and bakery. This nutritious enclave is seamlessly integrated into the “living” hotel experience, characterised by seamless simplicity and holistic well-being. A sort of luxurious open door policy where one can wander amongst the kitchen gardens or get an understanding of culinary innovation at their food laboratory Friends and Fools, which extends beyond the kitchen, hosting a myriad of events and activities, including culinary festivals, wine tastings, masterclasses, and herb tours, fostering a vibrant community of food enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
The Rote Wand hotel has thoughtfully expanded under the stewardship of the Walch family. From its humble origins as a farmhouse in 1651 to its present-day incarnation as a modern luxury hotel, it has remained dedicated to offering unparalleled service, comfort, and heartwarming hospitality to its guests. A full self-care luxury facilities completes the experience and includes heated outdoor and indoor pools, a 1500m2 wellness area with Finnish outdoor sauna, a brine steam grotto and an array of saunas from bio to infrared light therapy or separate ladies or family saunas.
Recognised as pioneering the highest standards, the Rote Wand Gourmet Hotel has garnered prestigious accolades including, Best Luxury Gourmet Hotel in Austria and Best Tasting Menu and Best Luxury Unique Experience in Austria for the Chef‘s Table from the World Luxury Awards in 2023.
As their motto reads, Rote Wand is a place of timelessness, balance and peace, beauty, good food & nice people. And I must admit that is about how I would describe my experience.
Emblematic Object: the soda bread samples found at their culinary concept lab Friends and Fools headed by the culinary mastermind Jamie Unshelm. The Culinary Lab is dedicated to experimenting, researching and creating flavours and variations using traditional methods and the latest technology.
Optimal Timing: Winter skiing is just sublime. Autumn in the kitchen garden is rich and nourishing. Spring in the sauna is bliss and summer for the quiet walks is spiritual. This one is for all seasons.
Outstanding Space: The entire establishment with the village-like set up makes for a mini adventure, a shining example of a true hotel experience.
Best Enjoyed With: family, friends or any group… warm jovial and with loads to do.
