History of Kirchheimerhof The Kirchheimerhof Hotel is located in the southern part of the sunny Kirchheim Valley, 1080 m above sea level. Perched up on the “Greierbühel“ hill, the “Greier“ farmhouse setting has always been a popular destination for walkers as it provides incredible views over the entire Bad Kleinkirchheim valley and the high valley of St.Oswald both framed by the magnificent Nockberge mountain range.

History The "Greierbühel" hill is the remains of the original valley floor to which the hillside terraces of Aigen and Obertschern bear witness. Molded by Ice Age glaciers in the course of millenniums, the valley floor has been gouged by the brooks to such an extent that today the Kirchheimerhof sits enthroned over the rest of the village. Mention was made of the "Greierhube" in the oldest extant directory of Kleinkirchheim, drawn up by the Knights of St. George upon their taking governance of Millstatt in 1470, which also included our region and the neighboring Reichenau valley.

At that time however, its name was "im Kray" and only in the 18th century did it become "Greier". The name "Greier" or "im Kray" originated from the Slavic "Krajam" meaning "with those at the side". As a matter of fact, for a long time the "Greier" was the only agricultural hide located on the shady side of the Kirchheim valley.

In 1897, "Greier" became a "Tripp real estate farm" from Kötzing near Seeboden which has been engaged in agriculture and cattle breeding ever since.

The year 1958 shows a significant change in the “Greierhube" history, as it marks the birth of the Kirchheimerhof. Eleonore Hinteregger, a skilled cook & confectioner and Otto Hinteregger, a passionate landlord, bought the "Greierhube" with the aim of building a worthy public house. On July 20th, 1962 the first guests stayed in the "Pension Greierhof" that offered 13 beds and a functioning kitchen.

Throughout the following years, tourism in Bad Kleinkirchheim boomed and the Hinteregger family was in the position to further expand their business whose concessionaire was Mrs. Hinteregger.

In 1962/64 a new farm building was erected and the old granary from the 17th century, whose corners display six pins, transferred to a scenic spot where it is still much admired.

In 1970 the guesthouse was rebuilt and the new extension meant that the hosts could register as a hotel henceforth bearing the melodious name "Kirchheimerhof". The new hotel offers 60 "A category" beds in 30 rooms, each featuring telephone, radio, bath, shower and toilet. Additionally the apartments have TV and fridge. All rooms include a balcony providing a wonderful scenic view over the valley and the mountain backdrop. Ever since the guests have been able to enjoy a sound offer for their well-being, including indoor pool with adjacent sauna, large terrace, sunny lawn, own riding horses, house taxi, ski lifts at the doorstep, wonderful walking paths in the surrounding forests etc.

But also farming is still practiced. Almost everything that is cooked by the hotel’s female boss Mrs. Eleonore Hinteregger for "her" guests comes from the own dairy farm. The delicious roast mutton, all kinds of Nudel (pasta pockets with different fillings), dumplings and the famous apple strudel count as some of the most renowned dishes.

Elli and Otto Hinteregger have four children, all trained for the catering business. Gerald finished his waiter apprenticeship in Hofgastein. In summer he worked on the world’s largest passenger ships and joined the staff of his parent’s business during the winter season. Bruni attended the hotel academy at Kleßheim Castle near Salzburg and then studied economics. Wolfgang completed his cook apprenticeship with honors and works at home. Sabine attended secondary school in Gmunden, followed by language studies at the Vienna University.

The two sons Gerald and Wolfgang took over their parent’s business in 1985 and invested consistently. 18 "Comfort" double rooms and 9 family apartments were added, all planned as comfortably and spaciously as it had already been under father’s management.

In 1990 "wellness" makes its debut at the Kirchheimerhof with heated "adventure" outdoor pool and a myriad of water attractions.

In the subsequent year 1991, the luxurious and very comfortable "Chalett'l" double rooms were built, thus making the number 23, as well as 9 additional family apartments.

The proud number of meanwhile 155 beds also required enlargement of the restaurant. The expansion took place in 1994 and added the most beautiful panoramic view over the Kirchheim valley. In 1996 the former "potato cellar" was transformed into a sophisticated "wine cellar" that boasts regular wine tastings with the hotel’s sommelier.

The rustic-cozy "Groar Keusch’n", made of antique wood of a racked-down farmhouse, was built as additional leisure venue near the hotel in 1990. The lodge’s special ambiance is highly appreciated by guests and locals alike. Thus also the name "Groar" (formerly Greier) has survived. (Locals still call Gerald and Wolfgang "Groar Gerald" or "Groar Wolfgang"). And there is still the "Groar-Hügel" (Greier hide).

Recent extensive reconstructions include the "Harmony SunKingdom" and the "Harmony World of Fresh Produce" in 2003.

The "SunKingdom" is a heaven for all wellness enthusiasts, leaving no wishes unfulfilled; with 5 sauna varieties most of them offering fantastic views over Bad Kleinkirchheim, aromatic showers, heated benches, panorama relaxation room, tea and juice bar all day round, 3 massage rooms, beauty treatments, tub baths and "Rasul" treatments. Joyful moments for body & senses.

Built according to latest hygienic standards, the "World of Fresh Produce" guarantees best quality food. As Gerald Hinteregger still supervises farming, own products can be proudly provided. In addition, great emphasis is placed on selecting regional, fresh & balanced dishes.

In 1997 the families Hinteregger, Krenn & Prägant founded the joint "Harmony's" business. Three family-run hotels where the atmosphere is one of harmony and balance.

Since 2003, the Hotel Kirchheimerhof is managed by Gerald and Sigrun Hinteregger.

Abstract from Mr. Matthias Maierbrugger - author