Inspiration

Over 40 years of rural rental

How farm vacations combine agriculture and tourism

F.acT: What links do you see between agriculture and tourism?

Astrid Rollinger: Agriculture and tourism have been closely linked in Tyrol for generations. What once began as a "summer retreat" is now a professional offer that combines tradition and modernity. Farm vacations stand for living values: Our farms work in harmony with nature, focus on circular economy and regional products - not because it is trendy, but because it is part of their self-image.

This is exactly what guests appreciate: the proximity to nature, personal encounters and the opportunity to experience farm life at first hand. Farm vacations are an integral part of the "Tiroler Weg" and help to position Tirol as an authentic and responsible destination. It is a form of vacation that creates meaning, allows visitors to experience nature and preserves rural culture - making it more modern than ever.

F.acT: How important is rural letting today?

Astrid Rollinger: Farm rental has long been more than just an additional source of income - it is a real opportunity for the future for many farms. A recent study commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism shows that every 30th overnight stay in Austria takes place on a farm: Every 30th overnight stay in Austria takes place on a farm. For around a third of farms, letting is crucial to their continued existence and accounts for over 40% of their income. Farm vacations also create thousands of jobs in the regions and strengthen the economic basis of families.

The role of women is particularly influential: Around 60% of farm guest rentals are organized by women farmers. For them, this not only means additional income, but also the opportunity to work directly on the farm and contribute their ideas. At the same time, for the rental to work, the whole family has to get behind it - after all, guests come directly to their own home. When everyone pulls together with openness and hospitality, the special atmosphere that defines a farm vacation is created.

F.acT: How do you ensure the high quality standards among your members?

Astrid Rollinger: Quality is the basis for trust - and that is exactly what our guests expect. They don't just want a nice room or a comfortable vacation apartment, but above all authentic experiences: Being right in the middle of everyday farm life, contact with animals, getting to know regional products and the feeling of being part of farm life. These moments make farm vacations unique.

The following applies: participation is possible, but not a must. Anyone who wants to can help with milking or watch bread being baked - and anyone who simply wants to take a look "over the fence" at farm work is just as welcome. We carry out regular quality checks to ensure that this is successful. They are not just a check, but an inspiration: farms receive ideas on how they can further develop their offerings and implement new ideas. In this way, we ensure that guests' expectations are not only met, but exceeded. High quality creates trust, ensures lasting memories - and enables establishments to assert their prices with confidence.

Astrid Rollinger

After graduating from the Akademisches Gymnasium Innsbruck and training as a tourism management assistant, Astrid Rollinger completed a bachelor's degree in business management in the tourism and leisure industry and a part-time MBA in tourism, wellness and event management. After several internships in the tourism sector, she joined Urlaub am Bauernhof Tirol in 2012 and has been Managing Director since March 2022.

Agriculture & Tourism
Alpine farming
Family business

Prepared for what lies ahead in tourism