Let’s get straight into the epicenter of style for a new generation of traveler. Because the Hirschen is a truly special place. Over the years it has become something like a club. With a lot of heritage and a personality of its own. In the historic corridors the floors creak and magnificent works of art hang on the wood-panelled walls of the individual lounges. But since 2024 it has also moved on to the next chapter.
The new Hirschen Spa
Surrounded by greenery and located just behind the main building, a new iconic bathhouse blends harmoniously into the landscape and neighborhood, featuring classic Vorarlberg timber architecture – thoughtfully designed by Studio Nona Architektinnen. Inside, visitors find quiet rooms spread over two floors, saunas, and direct access to the spacious garden and a 15-meter pool. For those interested, a selection of special massages is also available.
The new suites
Also completely new: The Hirschen suites in the Wälderhaus, which is located a little further back on the Hirschen site. There are a total of twelve flats in this house, ranging in size from 40 to 80 square metres. What we love: Lots of light-coloured wood, elegant furnishings, magnificent views, cosy beds. The largest flat under the roof boasts 80 square metres, it has two bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a large kitchen and floor-cooling. Everything here is of the highest quality.
Of course, the Gasthof Hirschen also has beautiful rooms in the main house, especially the “Stuben” in the parent’s house from 1757, with fine antiques, and very harmoniously added modern elements and unique works of art from the collection of senior boss Franz Fetz. Small detail: We have rarely spent a night as good and cozy as in these beds. Extra brownie points for this. Altogether there are now 18 rooms and suites in the Hirschen main house, and eight spacious apartments in the Wälderhaus.
Activity
Sport and wellbeing are central elements at the new Hirschen. The dedicated spaces within the hotel are now ideally suited for all kinds of retreats. Treatments offered by the therapists range from classic muscle-release massages to energy-based techniques such as Lomi Lomi. Scar treatments and Thai yoga sessions are also part of the program.
Culinary
As mentioned, food is one of the central pillars of the Hirschen. In the restaurant, awarded three toques by GaultMillau, the young team led by head chefs Jonathan Burger and Raphaela Wirrer serves highly creative dishes. In 2025, the Hirschen was also recognized with a Green Star by the Michelin Guide. Additionally, Raphaela Wirrer was named Pastry Chef of the Year 2024.
What’s cooking: Creamed veal for instance with potted dumplings, goulash juice and capers. Or braised chicory, served with beetroot cream, olives and beurre blanc. It doesn’t just sound sophisticated.
If you do not want to go for the whole menu in the evening or for lunch, of course you will also get your Wiener Schnitzel or “Kässpatzen” along with the “signature” product of the Bregenzerwald, the mountain cheese.
THE Surroundings
The Hirschen is located in the center of the Bregenzerwald, one of the most beautiful mountain areas in the world, with villages where beautiful settlements of shingle houses have survived. In summer an absolute hiking paradise and in winter the guests go to the Bödele ski area and ski back to the house with the skis via a tour descent.
Classical music enthusiasts often book a room to coincide with one of the concerts of the Schubertiade. Renowned artists perform in the nearby Angelika Kaufmann Hall, which is within walking distance from the hotel.
IDEAL FOR
All those people who want to sleep in style and eat very well, people who miss a soul in hotels and maybe find a place where they keep coming back in the next few years and thus find their famous home-away-from-home.
Prices
Doubles from 260 euros including breakfast. Please note, that there are also long-stay discounts. Just check the website.
Booking & Contacts
Hirschen – Fine Hotel, Restaurant & Spa
Hof 14
A-6867 Schwarzenberg
Austria
