Aethos Hotels Transforms Abandoned Estate Into Luxury Underground Retreat in Mittenwald
A luxury hotel complex is set to replace the abandoned Tonihof estate in Mittenwald. The project, led by Aethos Hotels, has gained full approval from the town council with no objections raised. Developers claim it will bring long-term jobs and economic benefits to the area. The site was recently acquired by Aethos Hotels through its investment arm, Limestone, from the Dudek family. Plans include 109 underground guest rooms, ten high-end suites in meadow pavilions, and parking for 126 cars—all built beneath the surface to minimise visual impact. The €60 million development is expected to create around 180 jobs.
The design targets younger travellers, particularly Generation Z and millennials, by blending modern comforts with natural surroundings. Benjamin Habbel, CEO of Aethos Hotels, has confirmed the property will remain under the company's ownership rather than being sold on.
Environmental measures form a key part of the project. Builders will preserve 80% of the existing hummock meadows as a protected habitat. Construction will use eco-friendly techniques, and native plants will be reintroduced after completion to offset any disruption. Despite these assurances, local resident Anton Sailer has voiced concerns about the potential ecological effects of the development.
Mittenwald's town council gave unanimous backing to the special development plan, with no objections from higher authorities. The project now moves forward without regulatory hurdles. The hotel is designed to serve both visitors and the local community. If completed as planned, it will add a high-end tourism option while maintaining much of the site's natural landscape. Construction timelines and an exact opening date have yet to be announced.
