The renovated Forsthaus Valepp, backed by Bayern’s Manuel Neuer, has opened its doors. Early visitors praise the authentic Bavarian charm and the focus on tradition over luxury.
After a decade of closure due to disrepair, the Forsthaus Valepp in the Mangfall Mountains has been revived. Investor and hotelier Johannes Rabl, alongside his partner, Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, have undertaken a “soft opening” to test their renewed mountain guesthouse. The pair, who received a 99-year lease from the state forestry, have invested six million euros into what they call a “passion project.” Despite initial resistance, their efforts have breathed new life into the establishment, although, as noted by local officials, the Forsthaus has not been transformed into a luxury chalet.
The first guests have expressed delight. “Beautiful, not kitschy, just Bavarian,” said visitors from Munich and Gmund. The food has also received commendation for being good and reasonably priced. A half-liter of beer costs 5.40 euros, while a large pretzel with three types of spreads is priced at 13.50 euros. The mountaineer stew is available for 16.50 euros, and Valepper venison goulash for 26.50 euros. Rabl justifies the prices with the additional costs they face due to the location: “Because of the distance, there’s no garbage collection or postal service.”
A simple, authentic experience at the Valepp forest house
Currently, most activities take place in the beer garden, which operates on a mostly self-service basis. Adjacent to it is an old wooden bowling alley. Rabl assures that reservations for the beer garden will not be available, ensuring that hikers and cyclists are not excluded. The two leaseholders have no intention of attracting a “fancy crowd with lobster tastings.” In case of bad weather, the Tenne, a large indoor area, is available for use and can be rented for family gatherings, though Rabl emphasizes, “We don’t want to be an event location.”
The nearly 200-year-old royal Bavarian building now shines with new life, free from excessive modernization. Local wood was prioritized in the restoration, and what appears old, like the wooden floors, is indeed old. The simple interior design follows historical details, staying true to its roots.
The color scheme adheres to an 1841 directive, with sage green discovered as the original color and now permeating the entire building, including the twelve guest rooms. These rooms can accommodate 28 guests at about 110 euros per night, including breakfast. Visitors will find deep window sills and hand-blown glass throughout. The fabric covers and curtains are made from local materials like wool and linen, with no synthetics, as Rabl emphasizes, “We don’t want golden faucets here, but a sense of well-being with natural materials in functional spaces.”
Transport challenges remain at Valepp forest house
Despite the successful opening, one issue remains unresolved: the lack of a promised bus connection to the Forsthaus. The shuttle bus from Rottach-Egern currently stops seven kilometers short, turning around at the Moni Alm stop. The Miesbach district office has postponed a decision until winter, leaving Rabl concerned: “As long as there’s no bus, people will come by car.”
The official launch is set for August 15, with a field mass at the nearby Maria Hilf chapel and an Almkirta with brass band music. Special guests are invited, provided Manuel Neuer isn’t playing for FC Bayern. He is currently in Korea.
