Our FAQ's
The most frequently asked questions and answers – all in one place
Here you’ll find the most frequently asked questions and answers, neatly bundled on one page.
The fact that our FAQs are a bit more detailed is no coincidence. Alongside technical reasons (SEO, GEO, AEO, and many more abbreviations), the main goal is to provide you with as much helpful information as possible. Better one answer too many than one question left unanswered.
And if something is still missing, just drop us a message 😊
The Alpenhof
How active or relaxing can I make my holiday at the Alpenhof?
It's entirely up to you. You can start the day with hikes, nature experiences, or exercise, or simply sleep in, read, and enjoy the surroundings. There's plenty to do here, so it doesn't matter if you miss out on one or two things.
Do I need to be athletic to stay at the Alpenhof?
Not at all. You can be active, but you don't have to be. Our guided hikes and activities – whether in winter or summer – are designed to offer something for all levels – whether you're an athlete or someone who prefers a more relaxed pace. And most importantly, relaxation is key – whether that happens while being active in nature or lounging on a wellness lounger – that's your choice, and that's what a holiday is all about.
At what time of year is a holiday at the Alpenhof particularly worthwhile?
I can't decide – every season has its own charm. In early summer and autumn, nature is a true spectacle – whether we're talking about flowers, colorful leaves, or the expansive views. In the height of summer, our swimming areas are even more inviting and a highlight of any holiday. This is especially welcome, as a relaxing day between activities offers a welcome change of pace. And in winter, in addition to classic snow activities like skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking, there are many other highlights. From Advent and Christmas to the sporty season of February and the joyful Carnival, all the way to Easter. Every season here has its own magic ✨
How important is the hotel's location for my stay?
Very important – and very pleasant. The surroundings allow you to experience nature directly from the hotel, without long journeys or stress. We are located in a quiet area outside the town, so you don't have to worry about excessive noise. And the advantage of a quieter location is that our grounds invite you to linger and relax – especially the wellness area and garden in summer.
What does a typical day at the Alpenhof feel like?
A typical day at the Alpenhof is cozy, relaxed, and personal. As a family-run hotel, we place great importance on ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and can enjoy their time in a relaxed atmosphere 😊.
Culinary
Can I eat at the Alpenhof even if I'm not a hotel guest?
Yes! Even if you're not staying at the hotel, you're welcome to reserve a table and dine with us. In the evenings, we offer two options: our four-course set menu or our self-grill restaurant with steaks, fish, and vegetables. Simply call us the evening before to make a reservation. And every morning, we have a generous breakfast buffet, which is also available to non-hotel guests. To ensure everyone has a chance to enjoy it, we kindly ask all guests to arrive between 7:30 and 9:30 a.m., as our breakfast buffet is available until 10:00 a.m. Of course, everyone is welcome to drop by for coffee, beer, cocktails, or other drinks, whether after a hike, a day of skiing, or just by chance – we always have something to drink.
How flexible is the dinner option? Can I choose between different dishes?
Yes! In the evenings, you have the option of choosing from 3 different main courses with the set menu, or 4 if we include the children's meal. This way you can decide according to your mood and appetite. At least one of the main courses is always vegetarian, and all other courses can also be vegetarian if they aren't already.
Does the Alpenhof offer any special themed or event-based culinary experiences?
Absolutely! Once a week, we enjoy typical regional dishes like Kasnocken (cheese dumplings), roast pork, sauerkraut, vegetables, dumplings, and more – it's simply part of a holiday in the Salzburg region. And in the summer, we head out to the terrace once a week for a barbecue – they have everything your heart desires, fresh off the grill. Meat, fish, vegetables, grilled cheese, a large dessert buffet, and much more await you. The only downside? I wouldn't be able to start a diet again until after the holiday. 😊
Are special dietary requirements such as lactose intolerance, celiac disease (gluten), veganism, etc., also taken into account?
Yes, our kitchen is flexible and caters to dietary needs and allergies. Please let us know in advance so we can prepare accordingly. For very specific issues, such as multiple allergies or cross-allergies, please contact us so we can provide individual advice.
What are the meal times for dinner?
We kindly ask all guests to arrive at the restaurant between 6:00 and 7:00 pm, so you can start your meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
What is a "self-grilling restaurant" and how does it work?
Our self-service grill restaurant is a special highlight for your holiday in Filzmoos. Meat, fish, vegetables, and side dishes, including sauces, are brought directly to your table, and you can cook everything exactly to your liking on the integrated induction cooktop. It's perfect for enjoying a unique dinner with friends and family. And for dessert, there's chocolate fondue – melted chocolate with fruit – doesn't that sound delicious? 😋
Walchhofer family
What role does the Walchhofer family play in the daily hotel operations?
We, the Walchhofer family, have been rooted in Filzmoos for generations and run the Alpenhof with heart. Everyone pitches in with the daily hotel operations. Our goal: personal attention and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for your holiday. Markus and Michael work at reception and in the restaurant. Michael demonstrates schnapps distilling weekly, while Markus leads tastings of Austrian wines. Technical support and programming are also part of their responsibilities. Julia manages the restaurant and the garden. You'll usually find her in the restaurant or behind the camera taking photos. Vicky works in the kitchen, in the restaurant, and on social media—sometimes all in one day, depending on the needs of the staff. And you'll find our dear Grandma Agnes at the regulars' table during mealtimes. She's enjoying her retirement and is always happy to greet new and familiar guests.
What connects the Walchhofer family to Filzmoos and the region?
Filzmoos is our home—we know the mountains, the trails, the people, and the hidden gems. Because of our roots and love for the region, we live and work together with local producers. We've known our farmers our whole lives and know where to buy good, local products. We want to share this connection to nature and our home with our guests and make it a tangible experience.
How does a family-run business like your Alpenhof differ from large hotel chains?
With us, guests aren't just anonymous numbers. We love to cater to your individual needs and get to know you after just a few days. Our smaller guest count makes things easier for us than for larger establishments. Hotel chains, simply because of their sheer size, need rigid structures. They know their guests by their numbers or through their customer relationship management (CRM) program, which helps them keep track of a large number of customers. This high volume of guests often prevents them from offering the personal warmth that smaller, family-run hotels like ours provide every day. Direct contact with our guests is very important to us, as personal interaction is one of the most rewarding aspects of our profession.
Do you have regular customers — and why do they keep coming back?
Yes — many guests have been visiting us regularly for years. The reason: We continue to develop every year. Comfort and quality increase, and yet we remain a welcoming, family-run place. Many appreciate this feeling of being welcomed. They don't just feel like "hotel guests," but like part of the Alpenhof family. Even if a new holiday destination is exciting, the anticipation of a holiday "at home" has its own special charm. There, you know you'll have a wonderful, relaxing time.
Environment and sustainability
Does sustainability lead to limitations (e.g., less comfort, less choice)?
Not at all. For us, sustainable practices don't mean "less," but rather "more conscious." You'll still enjoy comfort, wellness, and enjoyment—but with a focus on the environment and the region. Many guests even see this as added value. Take towels in the rooms, for example. It used to be standard practice to change them daily, but who really needed that? Nowadays, guests tell us when we change them. The result is water and energy savings due to far fewer washes, without sacrificing comfort.
Is sustainability just "marketing" for you — or is it actually tested and certified?
No — we've undergone a genuine audit and are certified with recognized environmental labels. This guarantees that our measures aren't just promised, but regularly monitored. And frankly, these criteria don't go far enough for us in some areas; we're significantly ahead of the curve, especially in energy efficiency.
How can I, as a hotel guest, help reduce the ecological footprint?
Quite simply, habits we have in everyday life are often perfect for saving money on vacation: Use fewer towels, whether in your room or at the spa. Be mindful of your water and electricity consumption, avoid plastic, and separate your waste. Going meat-free also helps, and you'll be doing yourself a favor at the same time. These days, we eat meat almost every day, and as an author, I'm no exception. It used to be different, and a return to those old habits would certainly be beneficial. Regardless of what we eat, regional cuisine is always recommended.
Why is a sustainably managed hotel even worthwhile — do I, as a guest, notice any difference?
Because sustainability benefits not only the environment but also your holiday experience: clean air, efficient energy, and regional products make you feel better. Personally, I particularly like an alternative term to sustainable – suitable for future generations. That should be the goal for all of us.
With so many environmental labels, it's easy to lose track – how do I know that yours are actually worth something?
Good point! And frankly, it's a really annoying problem. To find out, you need at least a little research, and who does that these days? We deliberately only use recognized, government-certified eco-labels. These are regularly inspected, have clear criteria, and aren't simply "bought." They are independently tested, transparently evaluated, and verifiable for you at any time. And if you don't believe us, please just check for yourself.
Jobs - Become part of the happiness
What kind of people are a particularly good fit for the Alpenhof team?
Ideally, we're looking for people who enjoy working with others, are open-minded, and take pleasure in giving guests a wonderful experience. Perfection is less important than warmth, reliability, and team spirit.
What are the typical working hours like in a hotel?
Working hours depend on the hotel operations and the specific department. We are flexible regarding the number of hours and days. From part-time work (a few hours) to full-time work (5 or 6 days), everything is possible. The details will be discussed in an initial meeting and should work for both parties. 😊
Can I also submit a speculative application?
Yes, absolutely! Even if there isn't a suitable position advertised right now, it's still worth sending in a speculative application. Sometimes the right opportunity arises sooner than you think 🙂
What is the working atmosphere like at the Alpenhof?
We have a friendly, family-like atmosphere where everyone is respectful. Many of us have been working at the Alpenhof for years – that pretty much says it all. We know each other and help each other out when things get hectic. And we believe that a good working environment benefits everyone in the hotel, whether employee or guest. We've all been working far too long to find this part of life boring or tedious.
Are there seasonal or year-round jobs available?
Both are possible - almost everyone takes a year-round position - which provides security.
Do you also accept interns and/or apprentices?
Yes, we offer both internships and apprenticeships. Depending on the timeframe and field, we'll work together to find the best fit. A brief inquiry is usually all it takes to clarify the possibilities.
Accommodation and offers
Are the rooms furnished in a modern or traditional style?
A blend of both. The Alpenhof focuses on alpine coziness, combined with contemporary elements. Lots of wood, warm colors, and a homey feel – without being kitschy. This makes you feel right at home – you won't find any dark rooms or designs here.
If the balcony and the view are very important to me, which categories would you recommend?
Then we recommend two categories – the Zirbenstein double room and the Edelweiss junior suite. The view of our garden, the stream that runs past the hotel, and the surrounding mountains is simply breathtaking.
How many rooms does the hotel have? Is it huge?
The Alpenhof is one of the smaller, family-run hotels. Especially considering its large wellness area, the hotel, with just over 40 rooms, is small and cozy. This quickly creates a personal atmosphere where you don't feel lost or like just a number, but rather well cared for. 😊
How quiet are the rooms - can you hear much of the surroundings?
We have no problems with that – almost all our guests find it very quiet, as we are located in the countryside and outside the town. Even on our access road leading to the hotel, there is very little traffic.
Rooms and Suites
Are there any rooms with balconies? If so, which ones are they?
With the exception of one room category, the "Mitterspitz" rooms, all rooms include a balcony. The "Mitterspitz" room category is located on the ground floor, which offers other advantages.
Approximately how large are the rooms and suites?
Our single rooms in Rettenstein are just over 20 m². Our double rooms in Mitterspitz, Dachstein, and Zirbenstein are around 30 m². The Edelweiss junior suites are almost 40 m². And our Torstein apartments are even 60 m². Plenty of space for comfort, relaxation, and quality time with the family.
Are there any special offers for longer stays or seasonal packages?
Yes, we regularly offer summer and winter deals, as well as special packages for hikers, winter vacationers, and wellness enthusiasts. Just take a look at our summer and winter offers. For stays longer than 14 days, please send us an inquiry directly. We might then be able to make you a better offer than those available online.
How can I check room availability and book directly?
The easiest way is via our booking form directly on the website, or you can send us an inquiry using the inquiry button or via WhatsApp. Of course, you can also book by phone. Direct bookings are always the cheapest with us. If this isn't the case due to an error, please let us know and we'll cover the difference.
Can I take special requests into account when choosing a room, e.g., floor or location?
Yes, we always try to accommodate individual requests – whether it's a quiet location, a specific floor, or a balcony with a particular view. Simply specify your requirements when booking or inquiring.
Family room
Is there enough storage space in the family rooms for strollers and other items?
Yes, absolutely. The junior suites and apartments in particular offer ample space for strollers, bags, and toys – without feeling cramped. This keeps the room pleasantly tidy, even with a family.
Can the children really sleep comfortably on the extra beds?
Yes 😊 The extra beds and sofa beds are designed precisely for these situations. The children sleep very well here. In the Edelweiss Junior Suite, the sofas are also equipped with full-size mattresses, so all the children's sleeping needs are met. The kids sleep just as well on them as in a regular bed – guaranteed.
Are the rooms family-friendly?
Absolutely. The rooms are clearly laid out, cozy, and well thought out. We're happy to provide cribs, kettles, or other small items upon request – just let us know.
Is a balcony even useful for families?
Absolutely! Many families enjoy it when the children can get some fresh air or the parents can relax on the balcony at the end of the day. It's also a great place for clothes to air out, which can be invaluable. The south- and east-facing balconies are a real bonus – offering a fantastic view of the Filzmoos mountains, a small stream that babbles alongside the house, and our beautiful grounds.
Can we still use all hotel services in the apartment?
Yes, of course! Even in the apartment you can enjoy all the inclusive services of the Alpenhof – from the food and wellness area to the family and children's offers.
Why is a family holiday at the Alpenhof more worthwhile than a classic family hotel?
At the Alpenhof, it's less about organized entertainment and more about genuine relaxation for the whole family. No sprawling hotel complexes, no mandatory, relentless activities, and no need to take a vacation from the kids. Families enjoy their holidays at their own pace and take advantage of the extensive children's program without any obligation. A holiday together – many of our activities are designed for families, such as children's climbing on real rock. Adults can join in and have fun too. Or you can comfortably watch from the ground – it's enjoyable, and you can focus on taking photos to remember the day. 😉