Streuobst Chalets
WHAT?
Hidden in a tiny village in the hills between Lake Constance and Allgäu, you’ll find two utterly unique ‘treehouses’ with chic Scandinavian flair. Unique, as these spaces were designed by owners Valerie and Markus Arnegger themselves, with the help of architect friends. The goal of these impressive structures, finished in 2023, is to effortlessly showcase the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
The Arnegger family has lived on the farm between Lake Constance and Allgäu since 1683, and has always held livestock, as well as undertaking forestry, nurturing orchards (there are still ancient apple trees that have to be harvested by hand every year), and running a small distillery. The farm is now in the hands of the 12th generation.
Each treehouse chalet, which is shaped like a pentagon, is freestanding, and accessed via a bridge. Inside, you find floor-to-ceiling windows, framing a picture-perfect view of orchards, meadows, treetops and - on a clear day - mountains peaks. Each comes with a Finnish sauna, also with a panoramic view, which is perfect to unwind in after a long day in the fresh air. Families have a garden on the doorstep, as well as friendly farm animals which little ones can interact with. A little further away you’ll find idyllic villages, historic towns, and even easy access to Switzerland and Austria.
WHY?
I fell in love because...
- The chalets have been crafted to perfection, using only natural materials, and designed to show off the beauty of the natural landscape beyond the windows
- Valerie and Markus are incredibly passionate hosts, and connect the tradition of the family farm with the modern world
You must...
- Take the goats on a walk through the forest; it’s an incredibly unique experience and will also allow you to absorb the beauty of the forest
- Visit in autumn for the harvest season where you can pick hops for beer, gather apples, or head to a hof fest
You might dislike...
- To really enjoy your time here and in the region, you’ll need to drive
- There aren’t any bakeries, cafes or restaurants within walking distance, so make sure the pantry is stocked up for your slow days at the chalet
WHO?
Introducing the Arnegger family!
“Our farm - which is now in the hands of the 12th generation - is currently run as a part-time business by three generations. Grandpa Josef and Grandma Friedlinde support us with their knowledge of the work. We - Valerie and Markus - are proud to be able to continue writing the history of this property over the centuries and to add a new chapter with our chalet-style tree houses.”
They love…
“The location is unbeatable for families looking to unwind together: our farm is where chickens, goats and ponies feel at home, birds of prey chase through the air, cattle graze in the meadow, crickets chirp, bees buzz and you are woken up by birdsong in the morning, you can only feel good!”
The Arnegger family’s insider tips
- Enjoy a slow day on the farm - start with breakfast on the terrace, take a walk with the goats through the forest (perhaps even taking the kids for a treasure hunt), go pony trekking, unwind in the sauna, and finish the day with Stockbrot and stargazing
- The area between Lake Constance and Allgäu is ideal for anyone who enjoys being active in the fresh air, whether that’s cycling, canoeing, sailing, hiking, horse riding, jogging, stand-up paddling, golfing, skiing, tobogganing, or cross-country skiing…
- Head into Friedrichshafen to learn more about Zepplins at the Zepplin Museum; while you’re there, explore the town and harbour
- Should you want to venture further away, Austria and Switzerland are also within easy reach
Streuobst Chalets
“We had a wonderful time out for two in the orchard chalets and really enjoyed the sauna with a wonderful view and the peace and quiet on our large terrace.”
THE
ESSENTIALS
- Need to know: If you have animal allergies, this isn’t the place for you; directly outside the chalets are goats, cows and ponies. You can also ask the Arnegger family if you can join for apple picking or helping with the animals, or - for adults! - ask if you can see Grandpa Josef’s distillery!
- Sleeping arrangements: The two chalets - Apfelhäusle & Birnenhäusle - both have one double bedroom, one twin (that can be for kids or set up as a double), and the option for extra beds for kids (for example, in the kitchen/living room). Valerie and Markus have designed the chalets to be very flexible for families, so do reach out if you have specific requests.
- Bathroom set-up: Bathrooms have a rainfall shower, and towels and adult bathrobes are provided, as well as basic toiletries.
- Food: Each chalet has a fully equipped kitchen and basic ingredients are available. There’s also a coffee machine and coffee pads. Plus, for breakfast, you can pre-order bread rolls to be brought to your front door by Valerie from the local bakery each morning. There’s also a BBQ in the garden available for guests.
- For families: This is an incredibly family-friendly place to stay, and guests have access to a travel cot, high chair, wooden stool, changing table, and diaper pail - just request when booking. There are also kids’ books and games, as well as a playground and sand pit in the garden, and Valerie has created a treasure hunt through the family’s forest.
- On-site equipment: Each chalet has its own Finnish sauna with an unbeatable view. Plus, there is a hanging swing under each chalet, and a shared garden with a fire pit. Guests can also pet the farm animals, take the goats for a hike, and go on pony treks (ask Valerie). There’s also bike parking and a charging facility for e-bikes.
- Help: The family live on-site, and is available via message.
- Remember to pack: Pack your hiking boots and outdoor clothes so you can get your hands dirty on the farm with the animals!
- Pets: Not allowed.
- Sustainability: The chalets have been designed to be as sustainable as possible. For instance, all building materials were sourced locally, water comes from a fresh spring, and the chalets are freestanding (thus not damaging the ground).
WHERE?
Streuobst Chalets is located in Neukirch, in a small village north of Lake Constance.
You can easily drive, and there’s on-site parking.
It’s possible to get here by public transport, though a little tricky and ends with a 30-minute walk from the closest bus stop; so we would recommend driving if possible.
