Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Kommerzialrat Albert Ebner, the owner and manager of the “Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort,” a family-run establishment that has successfully embraced sustainability and innovation to create a unique and environmentally friendly experience in the heart of Hintersee. With a rich history dating back over 240 years, the resort has undergone a remarkable transformation under Albert’s leadership, combining tradition with modern sustainable practices to offer year-round active tourism. In this interview, Albert shares how he revitalized the resort with a vision for sustainability, flexibility, and a strong connection to nature.
Skal Europe: Albert, thank you for joining us. Can you start by telling us a bit about the history of Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort and what inspired you to take it in a new direction?
Albert Ebner: Thank you, it’s great to be here. Das Hintersee Hotel and Resort has been in my family since 1790, and for over 240 years, it has served as a traditional guesthouse. But as time passed, we faced the challenge of how to keep it relevant and attractive in a rapidly changing world. We had to ask ourselves whether we wanted to stay a small hotel or take a bold step forward and create something entirely new. That’s when I came up with the idea of revitalizing the existing hotel by introducing the “Hotel within a Hotel” concept. This allowed us to expand and modernize while maintaining the connection to our rich family heritage.
Skal Europe: The concept of a “Hotel within a Hotel” is intriguing. Could you tell us more about what that involves and how it fits into your vision for the resort?
Albert Ebner: Absolutely. The “Hotel within a Hotel” concept was our way of expanding the resort while ensuring that each guest feels like they have their own private space. We constructed 12 additional buildings that blend perfectly into the landscape, preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings. Each new unit features unique elements, such as infrared cabins with a view of nature and hot tubs with their desalination systems. This approach allowed us to maintain the charm and intimacy of a family-run hotel while offering modern amenities that cater to today’s travellers.
Skal Europe: It’s clear that sustainability is a big part of your approach. What measures have you taken to ensure that the resort operates in an environmentally friendly way?
Albert Ebner: Sustainability has always been a top priority for us. We’ve invested in renewable energy by using a woodchip heating system and installing photovoltaic solar panels to reduce our CO2 emissions. We also prioritize using local resources, which is why all the water used at the resort is sourced directly from our local water supply and processed using BWT technology. This eliminates the need for plastic bottles and reduces transportation-related emissions. Additionally, we provide reusable BWT bottles in each room, ensuring guests have access to fresh, magnesium-enriched water throughout their stay. These efforts help us protect the beautiful environment we’re fortunate to be part of.
Skal Europe: You’ve mentioned that Das Hintersee offers year-round activities. How do you incorporate sustainability into your tourism programs?
Albert Ebner: We believe that sustainable tourism is about offering experiences that connect guests with nature while minimizing our impact. In the summer, we provide e-mountain biking and guided hiking tours that allow guests to explore the region without relying on cars. We’ve installed 25 e-bike charging stations and 4 electric vehicle charging stations to support eco-friendly transportation. During winter, we offer ski touring, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe hiking, all within easy reach of the resort, so there’s no need for additional travel. Our goal is to create a seamless experience where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of Hintersee responsibly and sustainably.
Skal Europe: It’s impressive how you’ve managed to combine tradition with modern sustainability practices. How important is the local community in your vision for the resort?
Albert Ebner: The local community is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that by working with local partners, we can create an authentic experience for our guests while supporting the community. From the food we serve to the activities we offer, we prioritize using regional products and collaborating with local businesses. This not only ensures that we provide a genuine taste of Hintersee but also helps sustain the livelihoods of those who live and work here. By building strong partnerships, we’re able to create something truly special that benefits both our guests and the community.
Skal Europe: Finally, how do you see Das Hintersee contributing to the future of sustainable tourism in rural environments?
Albert Ebner: I believe that rural tourism has a unique opportunity to lead the way in sustainability. At Das Hintersee, we’ve shown that it’s possible to create a high-quality experience that respects the environment, supports the local community, and provides guests with something truly memorable. By combining renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure, and activities that connect people with nature, we’re setting an example of how tourism can be both enjoyable and sustainable. I hope that more rural destinations will follow this path, proving that sustainable tourism isn’t just a trend—it’s the future.
Skal Europe: Albert, thank you for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Your dedication to sustainability and community engagement sets a wonderful example for others in the industry.
Albert Ebner: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share our story, and I hope it inspires others to embrace sustainability in their own unique ways.
