Hotel Hochfilzer

The beds were uncomfortable, especially after hiking in the mountains, and air conditioning would be a welcome improvement. Apart from that, everything was perfect for our family of five, with kids aged 10 to 15. The rooms were spacious, clean and accommodating. Staff were friendly and helpful, the food was absolutely delicious, and both children and adults enjoyed the spa and pool.

We’ve been coming for more than 20 years, and that says a lot. The Hochfilzer family are extraordinary, care about their guests and are actively involved in running the hotel. We feel part of the returning guests family. The location is right in the centre of gorgeous Ellmau, and many rooms have fantastic views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains. The rooms are lovely, the food first class, and everyone, from reception and the kitchen to dining, housekeeping and maintenance, is professional, caring and friendly. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.

The best things about Hochfilzer, beyond the location and facilities, are the hospitality, wonderful staff and incredible food. Breakfast feels gourmet, with everything you could want and more. Thursday afternoon brings guests kaiserschmarn, a delicious sweet regional treat. Dinner in the beautiful dining room is unhurried, with gourmet dishes. We stayed in a Haus Garden suite across the street from the main hotel. The beds were excellent, and the furnishings made for a restful, comfortable base for an active getaway. Some suites have balconies and mountain views. The gym and wellness area are great, and the accommodation is steps from the ski bus and several good restaurants. The staff were welcoming, friendly and eager to help with every detail. We were sad to leave and look forward to returning.

The spa was a perfect place to unwind after skiing. It was quiet the week before mid term, and the sauna and outdoor jacuzzi both had spectacular views. For skiing, there’s a bus stop a minute’s walk away, with a five-minute ride to the main gondola in Ellmau. Beginners also have some nice practice slopes five minutes away, connected to the chairlift for the Astberg piste. We stayed in a double room after doing a lot of research. It was a decent size, though fairly basic. The main barman made the hotel stand out, making us feel welcome, valued and like friends. We only ate breakfast at the hotel. The staff made fresh omelettes that were delicious, and the waffle maker was fun. There are plenty of good restaurants and bars nearby, especially Gasthaus Lobewein, Gasthaus Widauer and Das Oachkatzl, all fantastic for Austrian food. We hope to be back next year!