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Experience the Essence of “Gemütlichkeit” at Eriro Lodge

The German term Gemütlichkeit encapsulates feelings of warmth, comfort, and geniality, akin to the Danish concept of hygge, but with a unique emphasis on welcoming hospitality. At Eriro, a newly opened lodge set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Austrian Tyrol, guests are immediately enveloped in this experiential essence, starting with a pair of hand-knitted wool socks gifted upon arrival. General manager Henning Schaub warmly encourages guests to relax and feel at home.

Eriro’s aesthetic beautifully marries classic Alpine charm with modern design. The lodge’s exterior reflects traditional chalet architecture, while the interiors boast contemporary, elegant features framed by rich wooden elements. Spacious windows and balconies let in ample natural light, allowing the breathtaking views to take center stage. Unique design touches, such as wooden faucets that mimic tree branches and cozy, sculptural banquettes created from tree roots, enhance the overall experience.

Opened in August, Eriro is a passion project brought to life by three families, long-time friends from the nearby town of Ehrwald. The lodge’s name, derived from an Old High German term meaning origin, symbolizes the innkeepers’ commitment to honoring local traditions, alongside the delicate Alpine ecosystem. Sustainability plays a pivotal role in its construction, with materials sourced from the vicinity—sustainably harvested pine, local wool, and stone from nearby quarries having been utilized to create the structure.

Local conservation laws aimed at preserving this natural sanctuary significantly dictated Eriro’s construction. The lodge was built on the site of a former inn, and skilled artisans salvaged materials from the old building, incorporating them into the ceilings of the new facility, fostering a deep connection to the region’s history.

The commitment to sustainability extends into the culinary creations served at Eriro’s restaurant, where most ingredients are sourced from a 30-mile radius. The only exceptions include coffee, Coca-Cola, and some wines, although the majority is Austrian. Instead of traditional orange juice, guests are offered local apple or quince juice. Many cheeses are produced in-house, further showcasing the emphasis on locality and freshness. Even the gin used in cocktails highlights local distillation, accompanied by handpicked red currants.

Curiosity led me to request a visit to the pantry, and the chefs were more than happy to share their impressive collection—over 15,000 glass jars containing homemade marmalades, black Alpine pig pâté, and a variety of vinegars, some infused with local flavors like white currants or spruce shoots. Fascinating discoveries included ginger syrup, sourced thanks to a local farmer’s innovation, and pickled elderflower buds, cleverly substituting traditional capers.

The culinary expertise exhibited in these dishes transcends mere regional offerings. For instance, one evening I savored a pork chop that came with a distinctive “XO sauce” made from smoked pumpkin, showcasing a contemporary twist on classic flavors. Another standout was a small onion braised in black beer and accompanied by a rich béchamel sauce—an inventive and delightful dish that reflected the restaurant’s dedication to creativity.

Attention to detail is not confined to the kitchen; the wellness offerings are equally impressive. My spa experience included a massage with an oil infused with Johanniskraut (St. John’s wort) foraged by my skilled therapist. On another occasion, she guided me through a meadow that transforms into a ski slope in winter, inviting me to pause by a stream to experience nature’s serene beauty and ever-shifting essence.

Guests are also encouraged to engage in local crafts. Under the tutelage of Christoph Gundolf, a celebrated woodworker known for his Krampusnacht masks, I attempted to carve an edelweiss flower from pine wood. Although my creation received some light-hearted critique from my husband, the activity offered a charming connection to local craftsmanship.

As avid hikers, my husband and I had originally planned to explore deeper into the mountains, but the unpredictable early autumn weather—evident in the unexpected snowfall—altered our plans. Instead of emerald fields, we found ourselves surrounded by a snowy landscape for two days, watching as fog danced through the peaks, creating a dynamic tableau reminiscent of an Ansel Adams photograph.

On our final morning, the sun broke through, melting the lingering snow and beckoning us outdoors. We laced up our hiking boots and ventured into the forest from Eriro. After an hour of ascension, we arrived at the tranquil Seebensee lake, its surface mirroring the majestic mountains surrounding it—a breathtaking sight that felt like stepping into a dreamlike mirror of nature’s grandeur.

After returning to the lodge, I slipped off my boots, donned my cozy socks, and settled by the inviting fire in the living room. The experience resonated deeply, and the word Gemütlichkeit echoed in my mind once more, perfectly encapsulating the feelings of warmth and comfort that Eriro imparts to all its guests.

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2025 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline “Elements of Style.”

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