The Place
A former favourite of local writers such as Thomas Mann and Stefan Zweig, Haus Hirt is wedged high above the town of Badgastein. Upon entry, expect big vases of fresh flowers, Persian carpets on parquet floors, inviting armchairs and views northwest of the Gastein Valley. The hotel is run by a family who are truly professional hoteliers. Under Evelyn, and her husband Ike’s management, the whole house has been refurbished.
Bedrooms have all been modernized, but traditional still blends with modern in some public areas, such as the terrace and some of the balconies. The food is all local, fresh and organic; the breakfast buffet is particularly impressive, with 14 herbal teas and half a dozen homemade jams.