Interview: Hosts with a passion

A jewel in the middle of the mountains of the Gastein Valley: the family-run 5-star hotel DAS.GOLDBERG is a retreat, a place of pleasure and a place of strength in equal measure.

10. 11. 2025 Readingtime: 4 Minuten

When the doors of DAS.GOLDBERG open, you immediately sense that there is more to it than meets the eye. More than luxury. More than a stylish design hotel. It is a place that is grounding, that lets you breathe - and where being a host is not a role, but a living vocation. Situated high above Bad Hofgastein, between Swiss stone pine and panoramic views, a natural swimming lake, an infinity pool with sky walk and a smile that is sincerely meant, a hospitality unfolds that gets under your skin. Vera and Georg Seer have not only created a hotel here, but an idyllic place of longing with soul.

Ms. Seer, what does it mean to you to be a "passionate host"?
For us, being a host is not a role we play. My husband and I grew up in host families, and that still shapes us today. Even as children, we experienced what it means to welcome someone with genuine interest - with an open heart. This warmth is our calling. We want to create a place
where guests feel comfortable and welcome from the very first moment.

DAS.GOLDBERG has been a five-star hotel since this year. What does this step mean for you?
It's a nice recognition. But what is much more important for us is that we have remained true to our values: Authenticity, closeness to nature, quality. Even as a five-star establishment, we value "casual luxury" - for guests who are looking for and want to feel the real thing. How is your philosophy "Wald.Wiese.Wertvolles" reflected in the hotel? This attitude runs like a red thread through the hotel. From the interior with natural materials and homemade products to mindful cuisine and wellness. My husband smokes our own bacon and the trout come from our own pond. Everything we do is close to nature, genuine and valuable.

What role does your family play in everyday hotel life?
A central one. Our children Peter and Anna run their own second business, but are creatively involved in DAS.GOLDBERG. And we see our entire team as part of the "family.gang". We grow together, look out for each other, and that's exactly what our guests feel.

What is your famous "more" for the guest?
It's not the one big thing. It's the feeling of being welcome, of being seen, of arriving. When guests sit on the terrace at breakfast in the morning, the mountains in front of them, a home-baked loaf of bread and coffee roasted by us in their hands, and say: "I feel at home here." When guests feel that our hospitality is genuine - then we are happy too.

Your spa is called "Nature's Nest" - what's behind it r?
We wanted to consciously bring nature indoors. Large glass fronts open up the view into the distance. The scent of Swiss stone pine and lemon balm accompanies our guests throughout the spa area. Every relaxation room - apart from our gold gallery with deep heat - has a mountain view. For us, that is true wellness.

What special features does DAS.GOLDBERG offer in summer ?
Our secluded location on the high plateau is a gift. A constant gentle breeze, no heat build-up - that makes it particularly pleasant in summer. Our natural swimming lake with a real sandy beach is a highlight and unique in the Gastein Valley. Guided hikes, e-bikes to hire, yoga in the forest, golf with a 50% green fee - these are just some of the activities on offer. Enjoy a sundowner on the terrace in the evening, surrounded by tranquillity and panoramic views. For many, this is the greatest luxury.

What is your culinary concept?
Our cuisine has origin and character. We cook with ingredients from the Salzburg region, seasonally, with short distances. Our chefs attend training courses and bring in modern ideas - but we remain true to our roots. Enjoyment should connect: People, region and nature.

How do you see the Gastein Valley developing and where do you see DAS.GOLDBERG in the future?
Summer is gaining in importance. The valley is multi-layered, lively. Bad Gastein is becoming more urban, Bad Hofgastein remains familiar. There are new concepts, young hosts, lots of movement. And the mountain climate is worth its weight in gold - especially on those cool nights when you sleep with the window open and wake up feeling refreshed. Many people are rediscovering what we have always appreciated here. We want to continue to surprise, touch and create memories. And always remain hosts with a heart.

www.dasgoldberg.at