Alpenhotel Heimspitze

Austria has an unbelievable wealth of villages with incredible settings. One of these is Gargellen, tucked at the end of a narrow valley that dead-ends in soaring mountains. It is not hard to spot the Alpenhotel Heimspitze—as you drive into town, you will see it on your left, just across the rushing glacial stream. The core of the hotel is a century-old farmhouse, but it has greatly expanded over the years as guestrooms and modern facilities have been added. However, the cozy stüble (with walls and low ceiling paneled in wood mellowed with the patina of age) wonderfully still looks as it did in days gone by. A ceramic stove in one corner, tiny floral prints, pewter ware, copper pots, and colorful plates create a charming, rustic ambiance, making guests want to linger with a glass of wine. The paneled dining room is new, but maintains the same rustic character, and the food is exceptional. The guestrooms, previously described as simple, have all been renovated and many are now referred to as luxury suites with rain forest showers, large tubs and open fireplaces! Beautiful and elegant, soft colors and appealing fabrics are the ideal compliment to regional antiques, the local timber and stone used in the guestroom decor.  Ask for one of the rooms on the top floor with a balcony looking out to the mountains—the view is beautiful. The Alpenhotel Heimspitze has been in the Thöny family for four generations, and their gracious warmth of welcome and caring are what make this hotel so very special. The Thönys have been joined by one of their sons, but Frau Thöny is always about personally greeting the guests and making sure everyone is pampered. Although, they are so justifiably proud to boast the incredible changes to their fantastic property, they also stress that their philosophy and commitment to a guests remain unchanged!