DAS KRONTHALER and Gmund Papier

When the philosophy of exceptional hospitality meets the use of high-quality design paper, something special is created. This is precisely the case with the collaboration between the hotel DAS KRONTHALER and the paper manufacturer Gmund Papier.

For many years, DAS KRONTHALER at Lake Achensee has been publishing a high-quality customer magazine—wrapped in paper from Gmund. With changing colors, textures, and finishes, the cover not only gives the magazine a unique look but also reflects the hotel’s high standards of quality and aesthetics.

For over 190 years, Gmund Papier has stood for outstanding, sustainable paper collections and premium quality—making it a perfect fit for a nature-inspired hotel like DAS KRONTHALER. Nestled between the Karwendel and Rofan mountains, the hotel is committed to a natural and clean design. The magazine’s cover thus becomes a symbol of the shared passion for style and individuality.

Why a Print Magazine in a Digital Age?

Valentina Huber, responsible for Marketing & Sales at DAS KRONTHALER, explains this decision in an interview. She also shares why the choice of paper plays such an essential role and how guests react to the magazine.

“We want to offer our guests more than just a classic hotel brochure. ECHT.ZEIT is an inspiration and a reflection of our corporate philosophy,” says Valentina Huber.

With its own magazine, the hotel has created a medium that not only promotes its offerings but also tells stories about the hotel, sports, art, culture, and special partners. The topics are carefully curated for a specific audience—people who lead a conscious, active lifestyle, appreciate quality, and love nature.

Until 2020, the magazine was published twice a year and sent to loyal guests and subscribers. Since then, it has been published annually and is available at the hotel and select partner locations. Guests can take it home as a cherished keepsake or request a copy to be sent to them. A digital version is also available.

“Digital channels are ideal for short-term offers and up-to-date information. But a print magazine creates a completely different and lasting value,” explains Valentina Huber. “It allows for more in-depth storytelling, provides space for carefully crafted narratives, and offers a unique sensory experience through its tactile quality.”

While the internet is constantly evolving, the magazine embraces calmness and consistency—a deliberate retreat from the digital rush.

A magazine of this caliber deserves exceptional materials. “We have high standards for design and quality—something that should also be reflected in the paper,” Huber emphasizes. Since ECHT.ZEIT now appears only once a year, even more effort is put into its premium production. It is now “dressed” in Gmund Papier.

“Paper can be touched and felt—it conveys emotions. With Gmund Papier, we can perfectly communicate our values,” says Huber. Choosing this paper is a conscious decision for the hotel—a statement of understated yet intentional and charming aesthetics.

The collaboration with Gmund Papier initially began with another project. “I was already familiar with the paper. It quickly became clear to me that our ECHT.ZEIT had to be printed on Gmund Papier as well,” Huber recalls.

The vast range of colors, textures, and surfaces allows for continuous reinvention of the magazine’s look, providing readers with a true “aha” and “wow” experience.

“The feedback from guests on ECHT.ZEIT is overwhelmingly positive. Many loyal guests even collect the issues.” But success is not only measured in numbers: “The magazine is meant to convey our brand identity, elegantly present our offerings, and inspire our guests as they read,” Huber summarizes.

“Nature Is Our Neighbor.”

The hotel’s concept is deeply influenced by its immediate surroundings—forests, meadows, and water. ECHT.ZEIT captures this feeling through its stories, images, and the choice of natural materials.

The collaboration between DAS KRONTHALER and Gmund Papier demonstrates how print can enhance a brand experience—through design that feels good and content that brings joy.