1581–2025: The Oberraindlhof celebrates its 444th anniversary

Anno domini 1581: The Netherlands gains independence. China introduces silver taxes. Queen Elizabeth I of England defeats the circumnavigator Francis Drake. Don't worry, only to knighthood. In the holy land of Tyrol – to which the Schnalstal valley belonged at the time – Archduke Ferdinand II of Austria ruled. He had a pronounced passion for collecting, and he gathered all kinds of valuable and curious items at Ambras Castle near Innsbruck. Today, this estate is a museum, and what I am about to show you is an extremely fascinating piece of history:

Yes, it's real. And yes, it's true: your Oberraindlhof in the Schnalstal Valley is a place steeped in history. For 444 years, it has been shaped by strong characters and stubborn minds, by miracle women, courageous individuals, and visionaries. Just imagine: 444 years ago, a scribe dipped his pen in jet-black ink and wrote the words “Oberraindlhof” in the finest calligraphy on precious parchment. He also noted that this farmstead, including the dwelling, garden, sawmill, forest, meadow, pasture, water, path, and footbridge, was being handed over. The scribe carefully notes that the Oberraindlhof is to remain in use, always improved and never diminished or divided. The new farm owners are to treat this place with care and preserve its value for generations to come.

A privilege: responsibility for the past and the future.
 

And so, August 20, 2025, is a special day for the Raffeiner family. Their ancestors have been guiding my fortunes since 1880. With a lot of heart, brains, and dedication. With respect for all those who came before them and after them. If you would like to find out why today's hotel almost became a shoe factory, please read on here. Great-great-grandfather Anton had an idea. And at this point, the Raffeiner family takes you on a wild ride through the last few decades.

And before I accept your congratulations, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Kathrin Keller. She is not only a dear, long-standing guest, but also a historian and has translated the contents of the founding document for the Raffeiner family.

At this point, all our guests deserve a heartfelt thank you. Without you, I would not be what I am: a place full of stories. Your favorite hotel in the Schnalstal Valley.

Your Oberraindhof