New Discoveries in Austria

Saint Johann in Tyrol: Hotel Garni Gruber****

The delightful Hotel Garni Gruber has the honor of being the smallest hotel in Austria holding a four star rating. It is quickly apparent why.

Although with only 15 rooms, this little inn offers amenities usually only found in much larger establishments, plus, it has the added advantage of the personal service and warmth of welcome found in a family-run hotel. It is not surprising that the service is so professional since the owner, Franz Gruber, trained at the prestigious Cornell University and spent 20 years working with deluxe hotels before returning home to Austria to the village where he was born. Here he and his wife, Erika, built a small chalet style inn, incorporating all the comforts that Franz learned through his many years of experience, that guests most appreciate. The Grubers exude genuine warmth of welcome, treating guests as friends in their home. The chalet-style hotel, built in 1993, has old world charm created by the use of carved wood and attractive floral fabrics. The mood is established from the moment you enter into the cozy breakfast room which exudes charm with its light wood paneled walls, carved wood ceiling, Tyrolean-style chairs, pretty print fabrics, collection of colorful plates, and a wonderful, green ceramic, antique-style ceramic stove. Here guests enjoy a bountiful breakfast where nothing is "pre-packaged", but instead everything comes freshly produced from a nearby farm. The guest rooms continue in the motif of light wood and attractive floral fabrics.

The headboards are built in with excellent reading lights and fluffy down comforters. My favorite rooms are those in the back that overlook a small stream that meanders just below. Breakfast is the only meal served, but this is no problem since there is a rich selection of places to dine just a short stroll away, in the sweet village of St. Johann. The prices listed below are for the summer season, but in summer or winter, the Hotel Gruber offers superb value and makes a convenient base for hiking or skiing.

Hotel Garni Gruber****
Owners: Erika & Franz Gruber
Town: Saint Johann in Tyrol
Tel: (05352) 61.461
Fax: (05352) 61.46.133
Rooms & Apartments: 15
Double: 80-110 Euros
Closed: 6 weeks after Easter & November

Erika & Franz Gruber extend a warm welcome to You!