The scenic shores of Lake Wörthersee have long served as a magnet for European cinema and high society, and recent gatherings at the Schlosshotel Velden have once again highlighted this enduring allure. Director Otto Retzer and legendary singer Heino have reunited in the region, marking a series of events that celebrate both the luxury of Austrian hospitality and the rich history of regional filmmaking.
Even as the intersection of entertainment and luxury is a staple of the Velden experience, the recent presence of Otto Retzer and Heino in Velden underscores a deep-rooted connection between these figures and the Austrian landscape. These events, centered around the renowned Schlosshotel Velden, have blended the presentation of recent literary works with nostalgic tributes to the pioneers of the local film industry.
The gatherings were not merely social occasions but served as reflections on the evolution of Austrian film culture and the specific architectural and cultural heritage of the region’s most prestigious hotels.
Celebrating Austrian Hotel Culture: The Launch of “Meine Traumhotels”
One of the primary focal points of the recent activity in Velden was the presentation of Otto Retzer’s latest book, titled “Meine Traumhotels – Otto Retzers Lieblingshotels in Österreich”. Retzer, widely recognized as one of Europe’s most prominent TV directors and the creative force behind the successful ARD series “Das Traumhotel,” used the event to showcase 30 of his favorite hotels across Austria. Otto Retzer’s book presentation took place at the Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden, hosted by Julia von Deines.
The evening was characterized by a blend of high-end dining and personal storytelling. Retzer shared insights into the unique advantages of various establishments and provided personal anecdotes from his extensive travels as a director. The event featured a surprise appearance by the folk song giant Heino, adding to the star-studded atmosphere. The evening’s musical highlights were further enhanced by a performance from German artist Alexander Klaws, who performed the title song “Fly Away” from “Das Traumhotel” live.
For Retzer, the book is more than a guide; it is a homage to the Austrian hotel industry and the specific experiences that define a unique vacation. By bridging the gap between his professional work in television and his personal preferences, Retzer has provided a curated appear at the luxury landscape of Austria.
A Legacy of Cinema: 60 Years of Lisa Film
Parallel to the literary celebrations, the region honored a significant milestone in cinematic history: the 60th anniversary of Lisa Film. Director Otto Retzer gathered a wide array of prominent guests at the Schlosshotel Velden to mark the occasion, including Heino and actress Christine Neubauer. The 60 years of Lisa Film anniversary served as a moment of both celebration and reflection for the insiders of the industry.
The anniversary event was attended by several notable figures, including Mike Krüger, Julia Kent, and manager Helmut Werner. The gathering also coincided with a vernissage for artist Mike Kraus, creating a multidisciplinary celebration of art and film within the walls of the hotel that has served as a backdrop for countless productions over the decades.
The atmosphere was described as a mixture of nostalgia and melancholy, as the industry looked back at the “best times” of regional production while acknowledging the shifting landscape of modern filmmaking. The event reinforced the role of Velden as a cultural hub for German-speaking entertainment figures.
The Influence of Karl Spiehs on Lake Wörthersee
Central to the Lisa Film anniversary was a tribute to the late Karl Spiehs, a pivotal figure in the region’s film history. Spiehs was responsible for shooting approximately 400 films around Lake Wörthersee, effectively turning the area into a living movie set. A documentary detailing the success story of the company was screened during the anniversary, highlighting the legacy Spiehs left behind.
The Schlosshotel Velden itself stands as a testament to this legacy, having served as a recurring location for many of Spiehs’ television and film successes. The documentary provided a source of nostalgia for the guests, reminding them of the era when the lake was a primary center for European commercial cinema.
The connection between Otto Retzer and the legacy of Spiehs is evident in their shared dedication to the visual storytelling of the region. By celebrating these milestones, Retzer and his contemporaries ensure that the history of Lake Wörthersee cinema continues to be recognized by new generations of viewers and artists.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the enduring partnership between these artists and the luxury settings of Velden remains a significant part of the region’s identity. While the focus has shifted from the mass production of the Spiehs era to more curated projects like “Das Traumhotel,” the prestige of the location remains unchanged.
There are currently no further officially scheduled film productions or public events announced for this group in Velden; however, the ongoing promotion of “Meine Traumhotels” continues to draw attention to the region’s hospitality sector.
Do you have a favorite Austrian destination or a memory of “Das Traumhotel”? Share your thoughts in the comments below.