Double delights of a converted farmhouse in a stunning spot at the heart of the Pielach valley, and the new Steinschaler village apartments on the mountain slopes. The hotel sits not too far south-west of Vienna, but is at the heart of nature. The cuisine incorporates popular regional specialities and has been awarded Austria's Grüne Haube gastronomic accolade. Vegetables, salads, flowers and more than 120 types of herb grow in the Steinschaler's garden (nominated for the states tourism prize 2007). A local delicacy is the bright red Pielachtaler Dirndln cherry which is transformed into all kinds of sweet and savoury delights.

Your hotel:
Cosy rooms with solid wood furniture, some with four-poster beds and whirlpool baths; romantic packages, late breakfasts. Large natural garden with pond for swimming, outdoor pool, bicycle hire, fishing, and Stockschießen, a cross between curling and shuffleboard. Steinschaler extras: guided nature walks with the proprietor, wild herb walk and wild herb cookery course, guided regional food and cider tasting. Special family packages during the holidays. Adventure trip on the Mariazeller electric mountain railway.