ALPENHOF BRIXEN

Unfortunately, the hotel is very poor for a 4-star hotel. Unfortunately, I had to find a soaked floor, a dripping heater and broken lamps in the room. The owner did not see any reason for a discount.

Spotless clean, great food (breakfast and dinner), fantastic facilities (SPA / indoor pool). Great location – an easy walk away from nearby bus (skibus / 4051 line) and train (REX3 / S8) stations. As for there is only one train station in Brixen im Thale and it is very close to this hotel, exploring the area (SkiWelt/Kitzski) and reaching Wörgl Hbf is easier compared to other places that may be closer to the SkiWelt Gondolas. Essential measures are taken in order reduce the risk of COVID-19 infections (G2 rule, FFP2 mask usage by staff and guests) gives a good relatively safe feeling.

You know me, I write pretty rare reviews and am only inspired to do so when something is either surprisingly good, bad or bizarre. Well the Alpenhof is all of the above. THE GOOD: Ok, lets start with the good: all you’d expect from a ski hotel, well appointed boot / ski room, bar area, apres snacks, good location, clean tidy room with a private balcony both of decent size (albeit a little tired). Pool and wellness sauna. The room staff and cleaners on our floor were friendly, efficient and should really be well rewarded. The room was presented immaculately every day. Thank you for that. Restaurant staff were friendly and efficient and did their best to accommodate us. Two in particular were outstanding given the regime they work under - (see bizarre below). THE BAD: However, there were some flaws, the food whilst plentiful but was average at best. Sometimes had even gone off (fruit salad and Bircher muesli was way beyond tolerable - was replaced when mentioned but...never should have been out). Several of the group had specific dietary needs (not complex) and little was done to accommodate these. Bar: these people couldn’t get a room number right if you paid them (oh hang on we DID pay them). Bar bills were either non existent or were charged to incorrect rooms. This is not acceptable. Reception staff: crack a smile will you? You run this place with the Austrian efficiency you’d expect...but make the guests feel welcome please. Your attitude may well work when ordering employees around but it’s not great for guests. THE BIZARRE: There was an atmosphere of “edge” throughout the hotel. It’s hard to describe. Think “The Stepford Wives” or the more recent “Get Out”. The staff did their best to work under what appeared to be an odd and possibly, dare I say it, dictatorial management regime. Note to owner: This could be one of the best hotels around if you at the very least welcomed your guests with a smile (even if it is false Bon Amis, do try). In conclusion I guess a lot of this review is subjective and others may have found it delightful, however in our group’s experience this was not the case.