Almdorf Seinerzeit
For those who are interested in the quirky and unconventional, or those perhaps simply living like a local, follow us off the beaten path in Vienna and beyond...
Down On The Farm
creativecommons.org/Cristian Bortes
Respect for the environment comes naturally to Austrians, and visitors can experience that firsthand at nearly 900 organic farms, including 77 that focus on health and wellness. At Prinzenhof, for example, guests can help out on the family farm where they make organic honey, yogurt, bread and cheese, while in Hohe Tauern National Park, visitors can try milking a cow and churning butter, and then savour the fruits of their labour.
Calling All Urbanauts
Since 2011, Urbanauts street lofts have been transforming former shops into hotel rooms. With most at street level, a clever blind system allows guests to control how much of Vienna – and themselves – is revealed. Each artist-designed room comes with extras, such as bicycles to use, and a map recommending nearby amenities: the coffeehouse next door, the hammam across the street, and that trendy watering hole around the corner.
WienTourismus/Peter Rigaud
Chez Cliché
For travellers who want to feel as if they’re visiting friends in Vienna, Chez Cliché rents out quirky, centrally-located apartments belonging to make-believe Viennese personalities. Horse-lovers might enjoy former ex-jockey Raul’s flat, which is decked out in wood, leather and saddles. There’s also flight attendant Bella’s pied à terre, which is brimming over with mementos from her travels, and director Koloman’s pad, which is inspired by the world of theatre.
Hay Baths & Hunting Lodges
Almdorf Seinerzeit
Perched high up in the Carinthian Alps, Almdorf Seinerzeit offers 21 alpine huts, four ‘imperial hunting lodges’ and three chalets that have private saunas and steaming hot tubs right outside the door. Cozy in winter, tranquil in summer, and breathtaking views year-round. Take an aromatic hay bath, go ice-skating on the village pond or enjoy true farm-to-table dining.