Underground luxury hotel to rise from abandoned Bavarian farmhouse
A luxury hotel complex is set to replace the abandoned Tonihof farmhouse near Mittenwald. The project The Tonihof farmhouse, purchased by Aethos Hotels through its investment arm Limestone, will become the centrepiece of the new development. Most of the 109 rooms will sit underground, leaving only the original facade visible. Above ground, ten small meadow pavilions will host luxury suites, while a circular bistro and wellness area will blend into the grassy landscape.
The town council of Mittenwald gave unanimous approval to begin the special development plan. No objections were raised by local or higher authorities, clearing the way for construction. The project is expected to generate around 180 jobs once completed. However, not all residents support the plans. Local Anton Sailer has voiced concerns about the environmental impact on the Buckelwiesen meadows. Studies show the area has already seen declines in biodiversity over the past 20 years, particularly among specialist plant and insect species. Intensified farming and drainage measures contributed to these losses before the hotel proposal. Despite these worries, Benjamin Habbel, CEO of Aethos Hotels, remains confident in the project's success. The company aims to balance luxury with integration into the natural surroundings.
The Tonihof hotel complex will move forward with a €60 million budget and backing from local officials. While environmental concerns persist, the development promises new jobs and a boost for Mittenwald's tourism sector. Construction will focus on preserving the original facade while expanding underground and into the meadows.
