In the heart of the Austrian Alps, nestled within the picturesque landscape of Salzburger Land, Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort stands as a model of sustainable tourism and visionary development. On a recent visit, Skal Europe President Franz Heffeter presented the Skal Europe Sustainability Award Certificate to hotelier Albert Ebner and his daughters in recognition of their outstanding commitment to eco-conscious hospitality.
The award ceremony, held in front of the hotel, carried a deeply emotional note. The Ebner family had faced a period of profound hardship following a tragic car accident in which four women were seriously injured by a reckless driver. One of the victims, Petra Ebner, miraculously survived, though the crash claimed another life. Our thoughts remain with the Ebner family, and we extend our heartfelt wishes for Petra’s full recovery.
Despite this adversity, the family’s dedication to their vision never wavered. With over 240 years of hospitality tradition, the Ebners faced a crossroads: remain a modest rural guesthouse or evolve by integrating the surrounding natural beauty into an immersive and sustainable guest experience. Their choice—both bold and respectful of their heritage—has resulted in a resort that harmoniously blends innovative design with ecological responsibility.
The expansion of Das Hintersee is a reinterpretation of the Alpine chalet concept, not through isolated cottages scattered across the land but by creating an architecturally cohesive complex. Each suite and unit is strategically positioned to capture the warmth and tranquillity of the sunset, which guests can enjoy from private outdoor hot tubs or panoramic saunas equipped with large glass windows overlooking the breathtaking landscape.
But the beauty of the resort is more than skin deep. Environmental stewardship permeates every aspect of the property’s design and operation:
- Solar energy powers much of the resort’s needs.
- A closed-loop water reuse system ensures efficient and sustainable water management.
- The resort’s kitchen philosophy emphasises locally sourced ingredients and a sustainable approach to gastronomy, aligning the culinary experience with the broader ecological mission.
Das Hintersee exemplifies the future of hospitality—luxury seamlessly integrated into a green environment, where well-being and environmental consciousness coexist.
The story of the Ebner family and their resort is not only one of innovation, but also of courage and resilience. It offers a powerful reminder of how sustainability is not just a set of technical solutions, but a philosophy that starts with deep respect for people, place, and purpose.
As Skal Europe opens the call for applications for the 2025 Sustainability Awards, we invite all members and hospitality professionals to draw inspiration from Das Hintersee. Let this story motivate you to showcase your own commitment to responsible tourism and submit your project for next year’s award.
