Christmas with the Herbst Family

As the year slowly comes to an end, the first snow turns the mountains around the Riederalm into a winter fairytale and the scent of pine branches and Christmas cookies fills the air, we know: Christmas has arrived.
For us, the Herbst family, this time of year is very special – a time for reflection, family and lived traditions.

Every year, many of our guests ask us how we celebrate Christmas, even though we are so closely connected to the Riederalm and our guests during the holidays. The answer is simple – and yet very personal.

For many years now, we have not celebrated Christmas on December 24th, but already on December 23rd. The reason for this is very close to our hearts: we want to enjoy this special celebration calmly and together with the whole family. No appointments, no obligations – just time for each other.

That is why on December 23rd one thing is clear:
You will not find the Herbst family anywhere in the hotel. No reception, no restaurant, no office – on this day, our full attention belongs only to our family. We come together across several generations and consciously enjoy this special evening.

So, for us, the Christ Child arrives one evening earlier. A tradition that has become very precious to us over the years. The children’s eyes light up when the bell rings, and we adults also feel every year how important it is to protect and cherish these shared moments.

Our Christmas evening is shaped by small things that mean a lot to us: a shared meal, candlelight, soft Christmas music and, above all, time for good conversations. It is not about big presents, but about being together. About gratitude for the past year and anticipation for what lies ahead.

Especially in our often very busy working life, this evening is an anchor for us – a moment to pause and take a breath.

Christmas Eve on December 24th then belongs entirely to our guests. And that is exactly why we celebrate our family Christmas earlier. Only in this way can we be there for others on December 24th with an open heart, joy and full presence.

Together with our guests, we celebrate Christmas at the Riederalm – with a festive atmosphere, loving decorations and many small moments that make this evening so special. For us, it is a great gift to share this day with so many people who fill our house with life.

For us, Christmas does not only mean family in the traditional sense, but also community. And this is exactly what we want our guests to feel.

Being able to celebrate this holiday every year – privately and together with our guests – fills us with great gratitude. It is not a matter of course to combine profession and passion so closely.

Our Christmas may be a little different from that of many others, but that is exactly what makes it so right for us: one evening for the family on December 23rd – and a celebration of community on December 24th.

With this in mind, we sincerely wish you a peaceful Christmas season, many shining moments and memories that will stay with you.

Yours,
The Herbst Family 🎄✨