Sustainability

In today’s world, quality without sustainability is no quality at all. That’s why, here in Ratschings, we strive to follow a quality-driven path whereby people and nature walk hand in hand: in tourism and agriculture, as in mobility and artisanship.
In pursuit of this aim, we have set out on our path towards “South Tyrol Sustainability Programme” certification. We are aiming to achieve the highest level of certification, which is globally recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).
We would like to involve the wider population in this process by means of a general survey, which was conducted in autumn.
Rather than marking the end of this project, certification should signal the beginning of a constant improvement of the destination as a whole, and lead to a long-term mutually beneficial relationship between residents and guests.

A guest survey was conducted in summer 2023, in which 515 people were interviewed. Germany and Italy were among the main markets. The average age of the guests was around 40 and the majority (80%) traveled by car. Most guests discover Ratschings through recommendations from friends or family - the stay is usually spent with a partner or family and is characterized by the keywords nature, landscape, peace and quiet and spending time together.

The population survey in the municipality of Ratschings carried out in autumn of 2023, focused on sustainability and the interaction with guests, locals and the tourism association. The evaluation shows that the 333 participants cover a wide age spectrum and are favorable towards the community and the future of tourism. Points of criticism are high living costs and the traffic density, while gastronomy and the preservation of culture and tradition are praised. The population's main aspirations are nature and landscape conservation as well as more quality and preservation of tradition in tourism.

 

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Check out these 3 learnings from Hannes Rainer:

1. Sustainability starts with the construction of the building! Find out more about ecological construction and remember: you can also achieve your goal with small steps.
2. Short distances have priority! Look around your local area for suitable suppliers from whom you can source your products and work with them.
3. Consider the realization of your concept! Think about how you can stick with it and how to convince your employees to go down this path with you.

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 Lettuce, carrots, mangold and much more - the assortment on the vegetable field of organic farmer Thomas Zössmayr's "Waldförster" is highly varied and includes both traditional vegetables and rarities. Working in the rhythm of nature, which sets the pace in the field, gives the highly motivated organic farmer great satisfaction. For him, organic is not a simple lifestyle, but a set of values.

 

How can tourism and agriculture get closer to one another and benefit more mutually?

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This was the main topic of the “Visiting Pioneers” event, which took place on July 10, 2024 in Ratschings.

Ulli and Karl Mair from Pretzhof, Manni and Stefan Volgger from Gassenhof and Thomas Zössmayr from Biohof Waldförster were the protagonists of the event.



In need of inspiration?

Watch the event clip here:

 

 

Stefan and Manni Volgger are setting new standards

 
In the newly opened Gourmet House Mount Becher in Ridnaun, they impressively demonstrate how regional products and a passion for craftsmanship can take the guest experience and the perception of the local population to a new level.

have a look at the video clip!

 

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And now? Take these 3 learnings with you:

1. Build a network and involve guests: The success of your business depends heavily on a good network. Regularly exchange ideas with guests and partners, ask for feedback and suggestions. In this way, you can continuously improve your offers and always stay close to the wishes of your target group.
2. Go through the business with open eyes and try out new things: Innovation often comes from curiosity. Be alert to potential in your company and have the courage to try out new things. Experimentation and continuous testing can lead to unique products.
3. Collaboration is the key to success: Focus on regional partnerships with craftspeople and producers. They not only ensure the quality of your products, but also strengthen the local economy and the sense of community in the local population, which promotes a positive perception of your business.

What started as the creative vision of two passionate minds is now an established company in South Tyrol: Hiesig Eis.Werk.Statt. 

Founded by Christina Gasser from Brixen and Peter Stuefer from Ratschings, the company has been combining a passion for regional ingredients with the craftsmanship of ice cream production since 2017. While Christina studied finance at Bocconi University in Milan, Peter brings his many years of experience as a chef to the table. Together, they have built up an ice cream factory in their home country that is characterized by the highest quality and regional ingredients.

Have a look at the video clip!