Obertilliach: The Almfamilyhotel Scherer as family paradise in the east

Obertilliach: The Almfamilyhotel Scherer as family paradise in the east

in Obertilliach, a picturesque village in the Lienz district, is the AlmfamAfAihotel Scherer, which enriches the region. It is a hotel that is harmoniously inserted into the landscape, consisting of three gable roof houses. The charming host Gerhard Scherer, who immediately catches the eye with his southern charisma, leads the business. Despite the proximity to the Italian border and the eventful history of the region, especially during the First World War, Scherer is a real Tyrolean with passion. Together with his wife Sabine, he realized his dream of his own hotel. She has completed special training in tourism in the planning phase and brings valuable experience.

The roots of Gerhard Scherer are in a catering family. As early as the 1970s, his parents managed the Connyalm in the nearby Golzent tip ski area. After training as a cook in the renowned Hotel Weiler, he also tried his luck: in 2003 he opened an umbrella bar that enriched the après-ski scene in Obertilliach. "My dream has always been to build my own hotel," says the 40-year-old and persistently follows this plan.

a long way to the hotel building

2014 the construction of the family hotel began, and the first part was opened in December 2015. Five long years of planning were behind him, in which Gerhard Scherer not only worked on his vision, but also had numerous conversations with banks. "It was not an easy task to find a bank that trusts a young entrepreneur in this industry," recalls Scherer. Fortunately, the local tourism association, whose chairman is also a banker, was able to help with the financing plan. The community was also full of trust and provided the required property.

his commitment quickly wore fruits: the Almfamilyhotel started with 70 beds, a wellness area and a restaurant with 100 seats. In the first years of planning, many similar establishments were visited in South Tyrol to sharpen the concept, since family -friendly business was missing in the region. Gerhard Scherer was sure that a hotel fits perfectly with the area for families, with a family ski area in front of the door and the idyllic nature of the East Tyrolean Gail Valley.

successful expansion

After the opening, it quickly became clear that the concept works. The first expansion could be realized in 2018 to meet the increasing demand. The main house was enlarged and a third part of the building was added. With 140 beds and 34 family suites, the hotel is well positioned. The gastronomic offers were also expanded: the restaurant now comprises 150 seats and has a special area for children. There is also a water world with a children's pool and an indoor climbing wall.

2022 the hotel received an underground car park with 65 parking spaces, a practical solution for the snowy winters from Obertilliach. A small farm with animals, including ponies and sheep, was created to offer younger guests a unique experience. Furthermore, a retreat for young people was set up, which includes a mini bowling railway and other attractions.

The hotel restaurant is not only reserved for hotel guests, but is also open to locals and day visitors. The kitchen leads none other than Thomas Ebner, a well-known Michelin star chef who is close friends with Scherer. His return home provides an outstanding culinary experience.

planned is already another construction phase in the coming year to build 17 employee apartments and an outdoor pool. The high number of me local employees makes this essential to create adequate living conditions.

for more information and to take a look at the offer, the official website of the AlmfamAihotels www.almfamALYHOTEL.com