Berghotel Körbersee, Schröcken
The location couldn’t be more idyllic. It’s no coincidence that viewers of the Austrian television station ORF voted the Körbersee lake the most beautiful place in all of Austria in 2017. In wintertime, skiers don’t even need to take off their skis to reach it. Walser Käsfladen cheese-bread tastes particularly delicious on the sun terrace. www.koerbersee.at/en
Jöslar, Andelsbuch
One of the coolest places in all of the Bregenzerwald. Located directly in the centre of Andelsbuch, the Jöslar is a pub, shop and cinema in one. Here, Corinna Knapp and Gunter Fetz have created a place where tradition-conscious locals feel comfortable alongside young guests from the big city. www.joeslar.at
Gasthof Goldener Adler, Hittisau
Manfred Felder’s top priorities are regionality and ingredients sourced from small farms. “You can taste the difference. Locally sourced is in line with our philosophy of preserving the paradise we live in for future generations.” Before or after a meal, try out the neighbouring cross-country ski trails and winter hiking trails to explore paradise. www.adler-hittisau.at
Bergrestaurant Simma, Mellau
Rounding off your day at the mountain station of the Mellaubahn cable car is always a delicious idea. When chef Walter Simma heartily greets you at the door, he really means it. This family-operated business warms the hearts and stomachs of guests with classics like Sennerrösti (hash browns) or Käsknöpfle cheese spaetzle. The modern timber construction contributes to the beautiful ambience. www.restaurant-simma.at
Gasthof Hotel Hirschen, Bezau
Healthy, light dishes made from local produce: that’s the Hirschen philosophy. The menu features traditional and international dishes. The ski bus leaves from one side of this house in the middle of the village, on the other side cross-country skiers start their rounds. www.hirschen-bezau.at
Schwanen Biohotel, Bizau
The Schwanen hotel unites seeming contradictions: In the ancient Bregenzerwald parlour, enjoy dishes based on the principles of Hildegard von Bingen, who lived in the twelfth century. Meanwhile, guests can also enjoy dishes inspired by San Francisco, where host Emanuel Moosbrugger once managed a restaurant. www.biohotel-schwanen.com/en/
Gasthof Alpenblick, Sulzberg
The panorama here is unbeatable. This is true for Sulzberg in general and for the Alpenblick in particular. In addition to Tafelspitz (boiled veal), Wiener Schnitzel and Backhendl (fried chicken), the inn has plenty to offer, especially when it comes to patisserie: The exquisite strudel and cake specialities are made in house. www.alpenblick.co.at
Berggasthaus Elsenalpstube, Damüls
Traditional, hospitable and warm: a detour to the Elsenalpstube Alpine hut at the Uga mountain station is always worthwhile. Tobogganing enthusiasts appreciate the hut as a starting point. Floodlit tobogganing fun is offered twice a week. From here, the toboggan run leads two and a half kilometres down into the valley below. www.elsenalpstube.at
Café-Restaurant Sägerstuben, Au
A track leads up to the Sägerstuben restaurant, which is part of a cross-country-ski trail network between Au and Schoppernau. Regional cuisine is available continuously from 11:30 am to 9 pm, including specialties such as the Bregenzerwald Cordon Bleu. The dish called “Fuhre Heu” makes some winter guests curious. Give it a try! www.saegerstuben.at
Alpengasthof Brüggelekopf, Alberschwende
According to locals, this is one of the best places for Käsknöpfle cheese spaetzle. We can vouch for their expertise. Peter Oberhauser offers a variety-rich menu featuring classics such as Brettljause (cold cuts and cheese) or their delicious ‘fitness’ salad. Those arriving by car must pay a 4 EUR toll. (Snowshoe) hikers and tobogganers arrive free of charge. www.alpengasthof.com
Author: Thorsten Bayer
Issue: Winter 2021-22 Travel Magazine
