Julianhof: a touch of South Africa in the Styrian Vineyards

Looking for a peaceful luxury escape just a short trip from Vienna? Julianhof Premium Guesthouse & Spa is one of the most beautiful hideaways in the Styrian wine region — a place where soft hills, endless vineyards, and flawless design come together. With its private chalets, spa rituals, and calm atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for anyone craving stillness, nature, and a hint of wild luxury. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this retreat so special!

Julianhof was born from a deep love for Africa — its nature, its wildlife, and the quiet magic that surrounds the continent. Years of travel and time spent in South Africa shaped a vision: to bring the elegance of 6-star beach-house lodges into the heart of Styria.

At the same time, the Mediterranean feeling, the warm hospitality, and the gentle landscapes of the Styrian Vulkanland have always played an important role in the concept. Julianhof blends these two worlds into one retreat — South African beach-house style nestled among Styrian vineyards, overlooking the pilgrimage town of Straden.

We grabbed a car — for this trip we chose Car4Life, our go-to partners who always come through for both long and short rides, no matter the destination — put on our favorite playlist, and hit the road straight into some of the most stunning Austrian views you can imagine. Vineyards, tiny villages, winding roads… every kilometer felt like we were getting further away from the city and closer to something special.

At Julianhof, it honestly feels like summer just keeps going. You step out onto the terrace and there it is: your own infinity pool, a jacuzzi right next to it, loungers lined up with a full view over the vineyards. Even the indoor sauna has those same wide open views — perfect for slow mornings or late evenings.

Inside, the design brings in a clear African vibe: natural wood, warm tones, textured fabrics, and pieces that feel handcrafted rather than styled. The freestanding bathtub, the lighting, the small details — everything is set up to make the space feel calm, warm, and a little bit unexpected.

Breakfast at Julianhof feels like having your own private buffet — just without leaving the house. Every morning, a fresh brunch is delivered right to your table: salmon, pastries, fruit, muesli, local specialties, and everything arranged like a mini feast. You choose vegetarian or vegan if you want, and it still comes just as beautifully set.

And if you take a moment to slow down, you’ll notice how peaceful everything feels up here — the light, the stillness, the view stretching right across the valley. It’s the kind of morning that makes you forget you’re only a short drive away from Vienna.
And then there’s the breakfast itself — look at the spread. Fresh pastries, local cheeses, smoked salmon, seasonal fruits, homemade jams… everything laid out like a little feast waiting just for you. It’s generous, thoughtful, and honestly the kind of food that makes slow mornings even better.

Julianhof is honestly one of the best picks for a weekend escape, a long holiday, or just a few days of switching off. Whether you’re coming as a couple, with family, or with friends — it’s the kind of place where you arrive, drop your bags, and everything else is already taken care of. Pure rest, zero effort.