The enchanting village of Mauterndorf in Salzburg’s Lungau region is home to a unique gem: the Mesnerhaus. Here, where time seems to stand still and nature can be experienced in its purest form, Maria and Josef Steffner have not only created an award-winning 4-toque restaurant, but also a place of relaxation and inspiration. In this little paradise, the focus is not only on exquisite cuisine, but also on an extraordinary practice: ice bathing.
Ice bathing experiences
Physical challenge and mental revitalization
The Mesnerhaus is not only a place of enjoyment, but also a testimony to Maria and Josef Steffner’s deep connection to nature. Ice bathing, an activity that may seem unusual at first glance, has become a source of vitality and new ideas for the Steffners. The ice-cold water not only reduces stress hormones, but also releases endorphins, which are known as “happiness hormones”. This revitalizing experience not only strengthens the immune system, but also stimulates the metabolism.
Maria Steffner shares her enthusiasm: “Ice bathing in the natural waters of the Lungau gives me energy and helps me to focus on the essentials.” The unique combination of cold and nature is reflected in her creative culinary creations at the Mesnerhaus.
The magic of the Lungau
Nature experiences away from the ice baths
Away from the refreshing ice baths, Lungau offers further opportunities to immerse yourself in the peace and power of nature. Picturesque hikes through forests and majestic mountains convey a feeling of freedom and independence. The summit of the Großer Speikkogel offers a breathtaking panorama for all nature lovers.
Those with a passion for history can take a stroll through the charming alleyways of Mauterndorf or visit the region’s impressive churches. But that’s not all – forest bathing, a conscious time spent in nature, also plays a crucial role on the path to inner peace. Maria and Josef see the forest as a real place of power, a place to take a deep breath and relax.
Josef Steffner shares his experience: “We enjoy the forest air to take a deep breath. We like to go on treasure hunts in the forest and spend hours out and about – to switch off and collect chanterelles or lichen for our dishes, for example. If you just want to switch off, you should definitely give it a try!”
Workshops in the Mesnerhaus
Learn the art of ice bathing
At the Mesnerhaus in Mauterndorf, Maria and Josef Steffner take their enthusiasm for ice bathing a step further. They plan to share their experience and passion in workshops, giving guests the opportunity to combine the Mesnerhaus’s cuisine with an introduction to ice bathing. The workshops are intended to offer a personal way to experience this practice in the Lungau and learn from the Steffners’ own experience.
At the Mesnerhaus in Mauterndorf, culinary excellence goes hand in hand with memorable experiences in nature. Whether through an invigorating ice bath or a conscious pause in the quiet landscape, enjoyment and nature come together in a distinctive Lungau experience.
