History

Even the Counts of Montfort and Bregenz knew where the sun shines longest and where the best place to stay was. Long before the hinterland of the Bregenzerwald was settled, there was a hunting lodge where the Krone in Au stands today, in the middle of the ‘primeval forest’.

As the Bregenzerwald was settled in the 14th century, the former hunting lodge expanded. It became an inn with an agricultural business. A stable was built to provide fresh draft animals for carriages and carts crossing the passes.

Later, a brewery was added, which a Munich master brewer friend admired for its exceptional water. This further established the Krone as a meeting place for connoisseurs.

In 1904, Pius Berlinger had a modern summer hotel built with high ceilings, bright rooms, running cold water and its own telephone number: 1! A modern kitchen was also constructed. Summer tourism flourished and the Krone became a popular destination for travellers.

After the Second World War, Katharina Berlinger married Walter Lingg Sr. Together, they renovated the house damaged in the war, building a new wing containing an indoor swimming pool in 1971 and expanding it to its current size in 1981.

Her son Walter and his wife Birgit have given the hotel a new look. Modern wooden architecture, high-quality cuisine and a wide range of cultural activities have been added, as well as the “Krone Sky SPA”. This comprises a modern indoor pool and a natural swimming pond in the garden, making the Krone a special place for holidays and relaxation.

Theresa and Albert are now ready to take over, marking the sixth generation of the family business. They both bring new ideas and a breath of fresh air to the family business, looking to the future while staying true to Krone’s long history in Au.