I actually have no idea how many times we have been to Sonklarhof. I am guessing it is nearing double digits for me (and Martin just celebrated 15 times… as recognized by the hotel gifting him a commemorative wooden plaque). But every trip has been in the dead of winter for cross country skiing. This trip was our first in the middle of summer. It was completely the same hotel (no surprise), with much of the same staff, but a very different experience.
Instead of skiing the loop on the valley floor each day, we spent our days walking through the valley, along the hills and up to the infamous chapel (this time we actually made it all the way). In addition to the hikes, Martin rented mountain bikes for him and the kids to explore even further up the valley and mountains.
At the hotel, we avoided the sauna and indoor pool (too hot) and instead spent time lounging outside around the second pool… we also discovered a third pool on the property along with miniature golf and tennis. All of which are typically closed for the winter.
The hotel hosted live music two nights including a one man accordion band who got Martin and the kids involved in his act in the lounge and a 30 piece band complete with trumpets, flutes, drums and violins. Both musical acts included classic German songs such as Sweet Caroline and Country Road.
Unlike winter, the five course dinners didn’t seem as hard earned but were still equally as delicious.
In the end, we all agreed that we preferred the hotel in winter but would be happy to go back any time. Especially if it meant spending the time with the German family. I think that is what makes the place so special, it is a full week with family in a beautiful setting, relaxed environment, things for everyone to do and no one has to cook or do dishes.
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