Voices of Select Green Hotels: Conversations with the people shaping sustainable hospitality.
On the shores of a quiet natural lake, surrounded by apple orchards and vineyards in South Tyrol, SEEHOF nature retreat has grown slowly across generations. What began in 1965 with five cows and three guest rooms has become an adults-only sanctuary built around one idea: the art of cocooning — of genuinely slowing down.
Following its most recent renovation in 2024, which added a new façade, ten sky suites, and a rooftop yoga room, Seehof has completed its transformation into something rare: a place where the alpine landscape is part of the experience. The lakeside park, the La primaVera Spa, and a sun terrace with mountain views give guests every reason to leave the noise of everyday life behind.
“In the evening, as dusk slowly falls, the natural lake reveals itself at its most beautiful.”
1. Seehof has been in family hands for generations — how and when did it become what it is today?
It all started with five cows and three guest rooms when my parents-in-law married in 1965. Less than a decade later, the farm became a guesthouse, which was expanded later on. Two years before the big renovation in 2017, we decided to pursue a new guest profile and philosophy. The most recent renovation took place in 2024, giving Seehof a completely new façade, 10 new sky suites, and a new yoga room, the attico.
2. You focus on peace and retreat — “cocooning.” What decision has most shaped Seehof’s character today?
After the Covid period, we decided to become a retreat for adults aged 14 and over — a decision that has proven itself, given our location and our philosophy: cocooning.place.
3. Where on the property do you personally feel the special stillness of this place most strongly?
In every corner, I think, but especially in our lakeside park and in our La primaVera Spa.
4. Is there a moment in the day when the alpine surroundings feel particularly present — through light, sound, or movement?
In the evening, as dusk slowly falls, the natural lake reveals itself at its most beautiful: in breathtaking light that shows itself in countless facets.
5. What do guests notice first once they truly settle in — perhaps more than they expected?
They usually say that it’s even more beautiful in real life than in photos. We try to convey that atmosphere authentically.
6. If a guest had just one day at Seehof — what would the ideal stay look like?
Breakfast on the sun terrace to the sound of birdsong, a short walk in the forest, then a vital lunch on the terrace, an afternoon relaxing in the garden with a good book… and letting the day come to a close over dinner.
7. What sustainability measures have you recently implemented or are currently planning?
We source energy alternatively through a district heating system, use water-saving fittings throughout the house, and prioritize regional products with short supply chains. We also carry out rigorous waste separation, use only the bare minimum of plastic and packaging, have installed EV charging stations, and encourage guests to arrive by train, with a shuttle service from Fortezza/Franzensfeste station. We also recently received our GreenSign certification.
8. Looking ahead – what do you see as most important to preserve the quality and spirit of Seehof?
Not growing bigger but continuing to focus on quality — constantly improving our offering, keeping our guest profile, and above all… staying healthy (the greatest asset of all)!
Seehof Nature Retreat – In Short
9. Your favorite spot on the property – and why?
The bench by the lake next to the sauna — the quietest spot of all — with a view of Seehof.
10. A scent, a sound, or a material that defines this place for you?
Our room fragrance, which drifts subtly throughout the entire house. We connect emotions with scents.
