Naturhotel Forsthofgut: A Year-Round Alpine Retreat in Leogang, Austria

Travel creator @wherejesstravels has visited hundreds of hotels worldwide. Naturhotel Forsthofgut in Leogang, Austria is the one she calls the best she has ever stayed in. The 60-second walkthrough makes a convincing case: the property sits in the middle of the Austrian Alps, surrounded by jagged peaks, green meadows, and the kind of scenery that looks retouched but apparently is not.

The hotel's centerpiece is a large outdoor natural swimming pool, framed by timber-clad buildings and flowering plants. It looks more like a mountain lake than a hotel amenity. Beyond that, the spa complex includes a heated outdoor infinity pool, an onsen pool, and an adults-only area with saunas, steam baths, a whirlpool, and yet another swimming pool. The architecture blends modern wood and glass with traditional alpine design, and every angle in the video opens onto a different mountain view.

Rooms and suites vary in size, with many facing the mountains directly. The rate includes half board -- breakfast and dinner -- plus a buffet afternoon tea served between 3 and 5 PM. For guests who want more variety, there is a Japanese restaurant, a fine dining option, and a traditional alpine restaurant on site.

Families are well served here. The hotel has an indoor swimming pool, dedicated baby and children's pools, water slides, a large outdoor play area, a petting zoo, stables, and an outdoor riding school. In summer, hiking trails start at the doorstep. In winter, you can ski directly into the resort. That dual-season access makes Forsthofgut a rare property that justifies a visit any time of year.

Key Takeaways

• Naturhotel Forsthofgut is a luxury spa hotel in Leogang, Austria, set against the Austrian Alps.
• The natural outdoor swimming pool is the standout feature, complemented by an infinity pool, onsen pool, and full spa complex.
• Half board (breakfast, dinner, and afternoon tea) is included in the room rate.
• Three additional restaurants cover Japanese, fine dining, and traditional alpine cuisine.
• Extensive family facilities include pools, water slides, a petting zoo, stables, and a riding school.
• The location works year-round: hiking in summer, ski-in access in winter.