Tucked away in the Tyrolean Mountains is the 30-room Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof, a perfect family-run hidden gem. We came across this jewel a few years back and were bowled over by their take on Ayurveda, which also offers exceptional value for money, and is only a couple of hours from London.
In Austria, Dr Alaettin Sinop leads the Ayurveda team of 13 specialists along with Dr Guarav Sharma, and they offer a huge range of programmes, from Shirodhara to the full-on traditional Panchakarma detox, as well as acupuncture, and the best oil massages you will ever experience. In terms of activities, you have daily yoga, breathing exercises and meditation by the lake. The daily programme is comprehensive and there is a lot to keep you fully occupied.
The food is delicious and healthy, colourful and enticing. Nutrition plays a prominent role in Ayurvedic medicine and is considered one of the three pillars of health. Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof offers a balanced vegetarian cuisine that is based on the principles of Indian healing but adapted to suit western taste buds. The ingredients are first class and sourced from the local farms and markets. In Ayurveda, there are three constitutional types (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), and the suggested meals for each constitution differ. Their Ayurveda specialist Gaurav Sharma provides guests with an Ayurvedic treatment programme with detailed instructions regarding meals.
Sonnhof is a family-run affair and the owner, Johann, is always on hand to ensure that guests have all they need for the perfect stay. He is assisted by his two daughters – Lisa, who teaches many of the yoga and meditation classes, and Christina, with her Ayurvedic degree, who is involved in the daily running of the Ayurveda programme. Sonnhof is perfect for those who would like to sample the principles of Ayurveda, without having to schlep to the Indian sub-continent. It’s just as good for the purists, and for those who know and love Ayurveda, and as it offers good value for money, it’s perfect for all spa lovers.
Please note: This property is temporarily closed
Nearest Airport: Innsbruck Transfer Time: Approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes |
Including transfers, accommodation, full board and a 3 night programme
Ayurveda | Detox | Yoga | Holistic Healing
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Sonnhof Single Room
Sonnhof Single Room
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Tyrol Standard Double
Tyrol Standard Double
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OM Spirit Superior Double
OM Spirit Superior Double
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Tyrol Junior Suite
Tirol Junior Suite
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Alpienne Junior Suite
Alpienne Junior Suite
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Harmonie Spirit Suite
Harmonie Spirit Suite
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Sonnhof Spirit Junior Suite
Sonnhof Spirit Junior Suite
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VEDA Spirit Suite
VEDA Spirit Suite
The concept of the AyurvedaCentre is ‘Tyrol meets India’ and the various spaces have been designed in accordance with the Ayurvedic philosophy that our bodies are temples that house our spirit. In the spa, senses are soothed in a relaxed, positive atmosphere and gently stimulated with exhilarating fragrances and peaceful sounds. The spa contains 18 treatment rooms, two medical consulting rooms, three saunas, created in accordance with Ayurvedic principles, and the Swasthya peace room provides the ideal environment for rest and relaxation before and after treatments. Other areas of the spa include infrared cabins, a yoga & OM meditation room, a Shakti (power) fitness room and the new Shiva Shaki lounge. The signature feature of the spa is a glorious panoramic indoor pool boasting direct access to the gardens and energy fountain.
Nutrition plays an extremely important part in Ayurveda, and is essential to the success of this holistic form of therapy. It helps us develop physically, mentally and spiritually.
At Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof they use fresh organic, locally sourced food. All their European Ayurvedic cuisine dishes are meat free to ensure that even at the stage of food intake, your body is not subjected to any unnecessary stress. We live in an age when many people are adversely impacted by mental or emotional stress, and a healthy, meat free diet can be a great help in regaining clarity, strength and vitality. Additionally Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof offer their guests vegan options for every meal.
Exercise, yoga and meditation are integral components of European Ayurveda®, so activites such as meditation and deep relaxation with healing sounds are regularly offered. For those who wish to amble, energetic healing walks with energy coaching and informative 'walk, cook & eat' wild herb forays will treat you to fresh air and get your blood flowing. Guests may also enrol in Spirit Yoga© classes or sign up for a personal Qigong or Yoga class. Educational talks and presentations on various Ayurveda themes are also available.
Those who prefer other outdoor activities can hike, mountain bike, ski or hike in the surrounding region.
Hotel Facilities
| Ayurveda Centre facilities
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Garden of the 5 Elements
The Shiva Shakti energy garden is an oasis with Alpine views that spans 1000 square metres and was designed according to Vastu teachings. With a focus on the 5 elements, the garden offers various energy spots such as the Gateway to the Heart rose garden, statues of Ganesha and Buddha, the Shakti fireplace, special Chakra places and more. There are also places of bliss and a place of compassion to be found in addition to an herb garden, bird table, landscaped natural garden pond and yoga and rest areas.
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof boasts a stunning hillside location in the Tyrol Mountain range on the high plateau of the Thiersee Valley. At an altitude of 900 metres, it provides incredible views of the surrounding mountain scenery.
The nearest airport is Innsbruck, just 55 miles away. Because flights do not operate directly here from the UK year round, guests can also fly to Salzburg (73 miles away) or Munich (83 miles away).
- Really work during your programme, and choose a sauna to suit your dosha (body) before and after your treatment.
- Make sure to stretch your limbs with the morning yoga.
- Don’t shower after your spicy oil treatment. Though you may be tempted because of the smell, your skin will become baby-soft if you can keep it on overnight.
- Pack for comfort, there are no airs and graces here.
- Remember to pack a head scarf or hat, particularly if you have opted for a Panchakarma treatment.
Ayurveda Taster
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
This programme is the optimal solution for you if you have never tried Ayurveda and would like a short sample retreat. It offers an ideal introduction and is perfect for busy individuals, who are unable to commit to a longer Ayurveda programme. You will be able to sample multiple different treatmen…
Ayurveda 'Deluxe'
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
The Ayurveda 'Deluxe' programme is the perfect taster to discover a more in-depth experience about the Ayurvedic philosophy, without jetting half-way around the world to India. This retreat is an ideal introduction for those with limited time or those uncomfortable committing to a long…
Ayurdetox
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
This programme is perfect for those looking to lose weight and keep it off. Based on an analysis from your Ayurvedic expert, you will be prescribed an Ayurvedic diet suited to your particular Dosha constitution helping you to drop pounds. It combines modern nutritional science with the ancient wisd…
Ayurveda Relax & Feel Good
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
This programme has been designed to completely revitalise you. It will re-balance your body, mind and spirit, giving you time for yourself. You can slow your pace of life, take a deep breath and re-connect with your inner strength. You will also feel pampered as the programme includes a variety of …
Royal Ayurveda
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
This programme is based on the three pillars of health in the Ayurveda philosophy: Ayurvedic nutrition, diagnosis/ treatment and yoga. During this programme, you will achieve a healthy balance between body elements again, by restoring harmony between your mind, body and spirit. This balance will be…
Mind Detox
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
Get to know (and love) European Ayurveda® during a short break at the Sonnhof. The Sonnhof spa is often referred to as the AyurvedaCentre and is the ideal place to re-balance your energy. Through the use of the many lavish treatments here, the Mind Detox Programme aims to truly melt the tension…
Fountain of Youth Rejuvenation
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
The aim of this rejuvenation package is to delay, stop or even reverse signs of premature ageing. This soothing bespoke treatment programme benefits health by boosting the immune and nervous systems, promoting physical strength and regularising digestion. Carefully selected oils promote a clear com…
AyurDetox - Intensive
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
Discover an individual diet programme and experience sustained weight loss. Targeted detoxing measures and treatments combined with gentle exercise expel toxins and waste material from your body – within a short time you will feel truly unburdened and find new lightness, vitality and mobility…
Panchakarma
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
Encompassing the five pillars of Ayurvedic purification, Panchakarma is the most effective and profound detoxification method. Panchakarma is especially recommended for those suffering from chronic disorders. It starts with a two-part comprehensive diagnosis and implementation. First, the prep…
Ayurveda Plus Intense
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
Ayurveda Sonnhof's Ayurveda Plus programme draws on a variety of schools of healing to target Western lifestyle ailments. Whether it’s for a detox, weight loss, to remedy metabolic disorders or boost the immune system after illness: the combination of Ayurveda and complementary medical me…
Rasayana Intense Regeneration
Ayurveda Resort Sonnhof | Austria
The main objective of this programme is to regenerate the body and organs – especially when recovering from illness. Beneficial to all, these treatments boost the immune system and bring about internal stability, helping you to overcome fatigue and physical strain. In addition to health benef…