Zoller Manuel

A striking pyramid high up in the Zillertal Alps that is a statement piece, a ski hut, hotel and fine dining restaurant all in one; a wild, lush jungle with a spectacular infinity pool and a very special color concept in the middle of the Ötztal. The Schneekarhütte above Mayrhofen and the "LifeSteil apartment resort" in Umhausen could hardly be more different. And yet they have one thing in common: the innkeepers are hosts through and through and always do their best to provide their guests from all over the world with a special alpine experience.

The fact that nine out of ten Tyrolean tourism businesses are run by families, in some cases for decades, means that the entire team feels responsible and accountable for everything – as a point of pride, not an obligation. Janine Scheiber, Managing Director of "Lifesteil", explains: "I am proud of my employees, who strive to satisfy our guests' needs every day." Philomena Bair sums up her successful philosophy as hostess at the Schneekarhütte as follows: "Our guests should feel a bit like they are coming home. And especially when regulars tell us what we need to work on, that helps us a lot."

© Zangerl Rene

Whether it's gushing praise, blunt criticism or anything in between – Tyrol's host families value feedback at all times and cultivate personal conversations on site just as carefully as online. This is the only way they can learn, grow and adapt to the times and the needs of their patrons. Janine Scheiber quotes one of the many euphoric comments she has received: "'The coolest European hotel ... I'll definitely be back!" She explains: "It's always nice to read such positive feedback. They encourage us to keep going." And indeed, Tyrol's tourism business thrives on the people who consider the Austrian alps a home away from home, come back and tell their friends.

After all, in Tirol, everyone is welcomed as a friend. Find out what that means here:

Read more: A Winter in Tyrol: Here Are the Best Tips