Our history
More than 100 years of hospitality
Susanne and Anton Thaler bought the venerable Gasthof Bichlwirt in 1903. The Bichlwirt is, so to speak, the origin of the Hotels. The Bichlwirt is also home to the oldest pub and bar in the Wildschönau. Although the building is almost 500 years old, it has a special aura and cosiness about it. Today's ‘Bichlwirt hosts’ Maria & Susi Thaler continue to run the establishment in the spirit of its founder with conviviality and home-style cooking at a high level.
Our milestones over the last 100 years
- 1903 Gasthof Bichlwirt comes into the possession of the Thaler family
- 1958 Purchase of the Thumerhof and the associated ‘Kiahbrond’ mountain pasture
- 1973 The first new building - Hotel Harfenwirt
- 1974 Opening of Hotel Harfenwirt
- 1983 Complete renovation of the Thumerhof
- 1985 Extension no. 1 Harfenwirt (rooms & dining room)
- 1998 Purchase of the Hotel Sonnschein
- 2001/2004 - Hotel Sonnschein is adapted to the spirit of the times
- 2006 A modern staff house is built
- 2008 Extension no. 2 Harfenwirt (wellness area, bar, restaurant)
- 2019 New outdoor pool and garden design
- 2021 Family heritage- three establishments with their finger on the pulse
- 2023 Dreams of the heart are in the making
- 2024 Extension of 9 flats, SPA, relaxation room, fitness room, bouldering room and staff rooms
The Thaler family
The year is now 1951 and the Bichlwirt is run by Herbert's mother. The 6 km hiking trail from Hopfgarten to the Bichlwirt is very popular and a stop-off is a must. Everyone helped out and Herbert gained his first catering experience at the age of six. But not only did the business flourish, the family also grew: Walter Thaler was born in 1952 and today's ‘Bichlwirt’ Maria Thaler in 1958. Father Johann was a busy man and bought the Thumerhof farm and the associated ‘Kiahbrond’ mountain pasture, which is still used today for social outings with guests.
The "Harfenwirt"
1973 - the next milestone: Start of construction of the Harfenwirt. Money was scarce, the interest rates high, but with the family and their energetic support, the Harfenwirt could already open his gates in 1974. Even at the Thumerhof, nothing remains the same. In 1983, guests could gaze at the Thumerhof's new rooms, In 1985, the Harfenwirt's new dining room was to provide more space, and in 1992; the new bar caused a sensation. Herbert Thaler is a restaurateur with foresight and realizes that the house needs a new coat of paint, which is followed by an extension with spacious rooms, a wellness area, a bar and a cozy dining room. The Harfenwirt has a special charm - also through Herbert Thaler.
Hotel Sonnschein
With the birth of daughter Emily in 1998, Gill and Herbert Thaler bought the Hotel Sonnschein, which was quickly enlarged in 2001. 39 spacious rooms in the Westwing and a new dining room were built, and the popular sun terrace was enlarged. Only three years later - as next addition to the Symphony wing - the new dining room and the so ever popular hotel bar follow. People with disabilities are particularly cared of by the Thaler family: Barrier-free well-being - eight rooms for people with physical disabilities are built, another indoor pool is added. Comfortable ambience wherever you look: affectionate decoration, spacious rooms & suites and culinary delights from the region.
Expansion with Wellness, Apartments & Indoor Activities
Hotel Sonnschein is growing and unveiling an impressive new addition: 9 exclusive apartments, a modern wellness and relaxation area, a state-of-the-art fitness and bouldering room, and new staff accommodations, all enhancing our offerings for your perfect stay.
Our Highlights:
Apartments "Auszeit, Träumerei & Alpenglühen"
Each apartment offers 100 m² of a unique blend of contemporary design, top-quality equipment, and the cozy charm of Tyrolean hospitality – the perfect retreat for your holiday.
New Wellness Area
A sanctuary for relaxation and well-being: Experience a variety of saunas and wellness attractions designed to harmonize body and mind.
Fitness Room for All Ages
Equipped with the latest technologies and tailored to all fitness levels, our fitness room offers the ideal setting for effective and enjoyable workouts.
Bouldering Room
A haven for climbing enthusiasts and anyone who loves movement and fun.
We are excited to welcome you to our new Herzens(t)räume!
Your Hosts Today
The synergy between Herbert and Emily Thaler is truly remarkable. Herbert's extensive experience in the hospitality industry, combined with Emily's visionary ideas and fresh perspectives, creates an unbeatable team that continually brings new energy and innovation.
Arrive and feel right at home –
this is the philosophy we live by.
and then
Our Family Legacy – All Our Establishments
