Meet the people behind the place - Farnhaus

In this interview, Stefan and Franziska take us into their special home, a former inn that they have lovingly and carefully transformed into a warm and stylish haven for guests. Perched in a breathtaking location with panoramic views, their house offers the perfect balance of tranquility, nature, and modern comfort.

With a passion for hospitality and a deep connection to their surroundings, Stefan and Franziska share their journey—from renovating their family heritage to their vision for sustainability and the unique experience they aim to provide.

Be inspired by their story and discover why a visit to Farnhaus is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself?

We are Stefan and Franziska—a former restaurateur and restaurant manager, and a self-employed photographer. We feel incredibly fortunate to call this beautiful place our home, where we live with our two sons, surrounded by tranquility and breathtaking views. Even more, we have the privilege of sharing this special setting with our guests by offering two holiday apartments within our house, allowing others to experience the same peace and beauty that we cherish every day.

We would love to share a bit about you as a person with our customers. Would you like to tell us more about yourself?

We deeply appreciate our life here and feel truly happy, yet we also love exploring new places and gathering fresh inspiration. Supporting small businesses is something we care about deeply.

Through her work, Franziska enjoys being around people and engaging with them. Stefan has discovered a new passion at the hotel management school, where he takes great joy in mentoring and training young professionals.

We cherish our time with our sons—whether cycling, hiking in the mountains, or spending time with friends. For us, the best moments are shared around a long table, enjoying great food, good company, and a glass of something special.

When and in what way did this property come into your life and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

Stefan grew up here, where his parents ran a traditional inn for many years. In 2021, we had the opportunity to take over and transform it ourselves. Now, we live here with our family and love sharing our home with guests.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing your property?

Renovating and furnishing our property was a truly special journey. Since Stefan grew up here, it was important for us to honor the history of the place while giving it a fresh new purpose. In 2021, we carefully transformed the former inn into a warm and inviting home with two holiday apartments. We focused on creating a space that feels both stylish and comfortable, blending modern design with natural materials to reflect the beauty of our surroundings. Every detail—from the furniture to the décor—was chosen with the idea of making guests feel at home.

On a personal level, what makes your property truly special for you? Any standout memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

We have a deep connection to our house. Stefan grew up here, and it holds so many precious family and inn memories for him. Transforming it into a home for our own family while also sharing it with guests feels like a continuation of that legacy.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

The atmosphere of our property is warm, welcoming, and relaxed, with a deep connection to nature and the surrounding landscape. The interior features natural materials like wood, paired with clean lines and light, airy colors to create a calm, soothing ambiance. It's a place where you can unwind, connect, and truly enjoy the beauty of the surroundings.

Which part of your property do you love the most, and why?

The part of our property we love the most is the large, sunny terrace. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and it’s where we spend so much of our time, whether it's enjoying breakfast with our family or hosting friends for dinner. There’s something incredibly peaceful about being there, taking in the scenery, and feeling connected to nature. It’s a space where we can truly relax and unwind, and it holds so many special moments for us. Whether it's watching the sunset or simply sitting in silence, it’s where we feel most at peace.

What makes the location where your accommodation is located unique and special?

The location of our accommodation is truly unique because it combines the beauty of nature with a sense of tranquility and seclusion, while still being accessible to nearby attractions. Nestled in a peaceful, picturesque setting, we’re surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking mountain views. The area is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, and we love that our guests can enjoy the serenity and natural beauty right outside their door.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

Yes, we are proud of the sustainable and eco-friendly choices we’ve incorporated into our property.

We’ve also focused on using natural and materials for the renovation, like locally sourced wood, which not only add to the aesthetic but also have a smaller environmental footprint.

Additionally, we’re committed to waste reduction by recycling and composting, and we’ve designed the space with sustainability in mind—such as using eco-friendly cleaning products and offering guests the option to reduce linen changes during longer stays.

We also take pride in our small garden, where we grow herbs and vegetables that we use for cooking.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests? 

This house has always been open to guests and friends, and that’s exactly how it should remain.

Can you paint a vivid picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

At our property, guest can expect a peaceful and immersive experience surrounded by nature. Wake up to stunning views, enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the terrace, and explore the serene landscape through cycling or hiking.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features or characteristics make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

What makes our property unique is its blend of history, stunning natural views, and a personal, welcoming atmosphere. With no television, the breathtaking panorama outside becomes the “screen” for guests, offering a truly immersive experience. The peaceful location, combined with thoughtful design and sustainable practices, creates a memorable and one-of-a-kind retreat.

Can you share the best compliment you've received from a guest?

Our guests particularly appreciate the breathtaking views and the peaceful location of our house. One guest aptly described the Farnhaus as an "eagle's nest above Merano," with a perfectly and tastefully decorated interior.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay in your accommodation?

We hope that guests can truly enjoy their time off and feel at home. That is the most important thing to us, and everything else falls into place.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to fully enjoy their holiday?

We have a few recommendations to help guests fully enjoy their stay at Farnhaus:

1. Take a hike – There are beautiful hiking trails right outside your door, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in nature and recharge.

2. Relax on the terrace – Don’t miss out on spending time on our spacious terrace. Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee or sipping a glass of wine at sunset, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and take in the breathtaking panorama.

3. Explore Merano – The charming town of Merano is just a short drive away, offering a blend of culture, history, and beautiful gardens. Be sure to visit the famous Terme di Merano (thermal baths) for a relaxing day.

4. Disconnect and enjoy the view – Leave the television behind and let the incredible landscape be your screen. Whether you’re reading a book or simply watching the ever-changing scenery, it’s a great way to truly relax.

5. Support local businesses – We recommend visiting nearby markets and shops, where you can find fresh, local produce, unique crafts, and delicious regional specialties.

 

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