Introducing Mari Pop Hotel: A Vegan Wanderer’s Paradise

March 2023, Austria – Our excitement reached new heights as we arrived at Mari Pop Hotel, a hidden gem tucked away in the breathtaking Zillertal. As vegan travelers, we’re always on the lookout for eco-friendly havens, and Mari Pop fit the bill perfectly!

Nestled amidst the beauty of nature, Mari Pop’s location in Ried provided us with a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for unwinding and exploring the great outdoors – in our case skiing. 

In this blog post, we’re thrilled to share our experience at Mari Pop Hotel, offering you a glimpse of this wonderful vegan-friendly retreat. If you’re seeking an eco-conscious getaway that embraces nature’s beauty and caters to ethical living, Mari Pop should definitely be on your radar and hopefully this blog post will help you to decide for yourself.

Mari Pop’s setting

Nestled in the charming village of Ried im Zillertal, Mari Pop Hotel offers a serene and idyllic setting, providing a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surrounded by the breathtaking Zillertal region in Austria, the hotel is embraced by a picturesque landscape, boasting magnificent mountain views and lush greenery.

Ried im Zillertal itself is a delightful village, cradled at the bottom of a wide valley and encircled by majestic mountains. This charming setting exudes tranquility and warmth, making it the perfect backdrop for a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation. The region’s natural beauty is renowned, and it attracts both adventure enthusiasts seeking thrilling outdoor activities and travelers seeking a serene escape.

Mari Pop’s strategic location in Ried offers the best of both worlds – the beauty of nature and the convenience of accessibility. Guests can effortlessly immerse themselves in the surrounding natural wonders, whether it’s embarking on exhilarating hikes through the majestic mountains or simply reveling in the tranquil beauty of the Zillertal valley.

Breathtaking Views: A Visual Feast for Nature Lovers

From Ried im Zillertal, you can enjoy serene and captivating views that highlight the natural beauty of the Zillertal region in Austria. The sight of the majestic Zillertal Alps to the south creates a stunning backdrop, with snow-capped peaks and green slopes offering a picturesque scene, especially during the winter season.

As you explore the village and its surroundings, you’ll be greeted by charming valleys and peaceful countryside vistas. The tranquility of the area invites you to embrace the beauty of nature and take in the peaceful ambiance.

Whether you’re leisurely strolling through the village streets or embarking on hikes in the nearby mountains, the views from Ried im Zillertal offer a chance to connect with the serene landscape of the Zillertal region. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and immerse yourself in the simplicity and beauty of nature.

How to Get There and Away

By Car

The journey from Innsbruck to Ried im Zillertal by car is approximately 90 kilometers and takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Here are the steps to reach Ried im Zillertal:

• Start by heading east on the A12/E45 towards Zillertal.
• Continue on the A12 until you reach Exit 39-Wiesing, which is the exit for Zillertal.
• Take Exit 39-Wiesing and merge onto B169 towards Zillertal.
• Follow the B169 road and continue through the scenic Zillertal valley until you reach the village of Ried im Zillertal.

By Public Transport

Getting to Ried im Zillertal from Innsbruck by public transport is convenient and efficient. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

• From Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take a train to Jenbach Bahnhof. Trains from Innsbruck to Jenbach run frequently, and the journey takes around 30 minutes.
• At Jenbach Bahnhof, transfer to the Zillertalbahn, a narrow-gauge railway that connects Jenbach to various towns in Zillertal.
• Take the Zillertalbahn train to the station in Ried im Zillertal. The ride offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes and takes around 20 to 25 minutes.

Vegan Delights: A Culinary Journey Like No Other

At Mari Pop Hotel, they may not be a fully vegan establishment, but they’ve put a lot of attention into satisfying vegan guests with a delightful vegan menu. They bring together Tyrolean cuisine and urban food trends, ensuring a wide range of vegan dishes for you to relish throughout the day.

Mornings at Mari Pop start on a delightful note with a breakfast buffet that includes a variety of vegan options. From fresh bread to vibrant fruits and tasty plant-based spreads, there’s something to please every vegan palate.

For lunch and dinner, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with their daily rotating vegan menu. The chefs at Mari Pop work their magic to present you with healthy and delicious plant-based dishes. Whether you’re a devoted vegan or simply curious about vegan fare, you’re in for a treat!

From hearty vegetable stews to creative salads and vegan twists on traditional Tyrolean favorites, each meal is a celebration of ethical and sustainable dining. Mari Pop’s commitment to offering diverse and flavorful vegan dishes ensures a memorable experience for all their guests.

So, whether you’re a seasoned vegan or someone eager to explore plant-based cuisine, Mari Pop’s Vegan Kitchen is a welcoming space that promises a satisfying and compassionate dining experience.  I’ll share more about the meals later on in the post

Cozy Retreats: Unraveling the Charm of Mari Pop’s Rooms

At Mari Pop Hotel, you’ll find an array of inviting rooms, each offering a unique and comforting experience. With seven different standards of rooms available, ranging from 18 square meters to a spacious 77 square meters, there’s an ideal accommodation for everyone, whether you’re traveling solo or with a group of up to six people.

The newly renovated rooms exude a charming mountain feel, with wood accents adding a touch of rustic elegance. Embracing a minimalist design, the rooms offer a serene and clutter-free ambiance, allowing you to unwind in a tranquil atmosphere.

During our stay, we had the pleasure of residing in a Glory Mari room, which proved to be a cozy haven. Complete with a desk and a sofa, the room offered lovely views that greeted us every morning. 

As is the norm in many European rooms, the bathroom featured glass partitions, ensuring a contemporary touch. It’s essential to be comfortable with the person you’re sharing the room with, as glimpses while you are showering may be unavoidable depending on the room you are in – ours had a curtain. However, the modern design seamlessly blended with the overall aesthetics of the room.

A distinctive feature we noticed during our stay was the presence of two duvets on the bed, rather than a single one shared between occupants. This European style of bedding ensures personalized comfort, letting you enjoy a restful sleep in your own cocoon of warmth.

As much as we adore our furry friends, it’s essential to note that dogs and other pets are not allowed in the rooms of Mari Pop’s main house. But fear not, if you’re traveling with your four-legged companion, you can still book a room in the Mari Pop Guesthouse (owned by the same people) and experience the same warm hospitality and comfort which is just across the road.

Unwind in Tranquility: Exploring Mari Pop’s Epic Spa

As a guest at Mari Pop Hotel, I was delighted to discover not one but three incredible spas catering to different experiences. The Family Spa was perfect for both winter and summer, offering an indoor pool where I could unwind with my children regardless of the weather. I cherished the soothing steam bath and Finnish sauna, a pleasant surprise for guests under 18 like my family.

Venturing to the top floor, I found myself in the adults-only haven of the Rooftop Spa. The name alone intrigued me, and the moment I stepped in, I was captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views and the serene relaxation room. Gazing at the stars from this tranquil space was an unforgettable experience, truly a retreat just for grown-ups.

Of course, the Garden Spa didn’t disappoint either. The year-round outdoor pool became a family favorite, as we splashed around and enjoyed each other’s company. . After the Finnish sauna, the cold water pool provided a refreshing cooldown in the outdoor pool, and I couldn’t resist warming up again by the cozy tiled stove.

The spa options were so varied and inviting that I couldn’t help but explore each one during my stay. 

A Thoughtful Fusion of Vegan and Non-Vegan Delights: A Culinary Experience at Mari Pop Hotel

One of the aspects that stood out during my stay at Mari Pop Hotel was the thoughtful attention given to vegan dining options. From breakfast to dinner, they made sure that vegans like me felt genuinely welcomed and catered to.

Breakfast

At breakfast, the typical European spread included a pleasant surprise – vegan versions of many items. Although there were no vegan pastries, I was pleased with the variety of vegan yogurt, plant-based milk, an abundance of fresh vegetables, assorted bread, and tempting salads. The effort put into offering a range of vegan choices made me feel valued and appreciated.

To be honest, breakfast options, whether vegan or non-vegan, didn’t particularly stand out as extraordinary. It was a standard European breakfast, and while there were no vegan pancakes or French toast, I noticed that the non-vegan menu wasn’t exceptionally remarkable either. This seems to be the norm for breakfast in Europe.

Lunch

Now, moving on to lunch – we decided to skip it during our stay at Mari Pop. Our days were filled with skiing and exploring the beautiful slopes of Zillertal, leaving us too far away to dine at the hotel.

Dinner

Dinner, on the other hand, was a delightful experience. At breakfast and during check-in, we had the option to choose our dinner preferences by filling out a form. We opted for the all-vegan dinner, and when dinner time arrived, we eagerly made our way to the dining area.

The dinner menu was a delightful four-course meal, with the added bonus of an unlimited salad buffet. This salad bar was a refreshing and healthy choice, especially considering our indulgent lunch on the ski fields, where vegan options were quite limited.

The dinner dishes were beautifully presented, showcasing the chef’s creativity and culinary expertise. As a vegan, I was pleased with the diverse and innovative plant-based offerings that graced our table.

Throughout the dinner experience, the service was exceptional, and the staff ensured we felt well taken care of, despite language barriers. They were attentive, always ready to refill our glasses, and willing to assist with any questions we had about the menu.

To complement the dining experience, a wide selection of cocktails was available, adding an enjoyable touch to our evening. The dining area’s vibrant and inviting atmosphere contributed to a memorable and delightful dinner.

Although we truly appreciated the considerate vegan offerings at Mari Pop Hotel, we couldn’t help but notice that they didn’t quite match the excitement of those available at dedicated vegan restaurants in nearby Innsbruck. However, given the area we were in (rural, ski fields), we were genuinely pleased with the options provided and found them to be quite satisfying.

Important note for non guests

You don’t have to be a guest at Mari Pop Hotel to enjoy their delicious breakfast or dinner! That’s right, they extend a warm invitation to outside guests as well. Just drop them an email or give them a quick call to reserve your spot at their restaurant. Whether you’re passing through the area or looking to treat yourself to a good quality vegan meal, Mari Pop’s dining experience is not to be missed. 

Zillertal Region: A Year-Round Playground for All Seasons

So , why would you want to stay at Mari Pop? Well, while the hotel is very nice, I wouldn’t come all the way here for just the hotel, but I would come here for the incredible activities that are available in the region. Read on.

The Zillertal region in Austria is a picturesque and diverse destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for every season. Whether you visit in spring, summer, autumn, or winter, Zillertal will enchant you with its natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. Here’s a detailed overview of what you can do in each season:

Spring:

As the snow melts and nature awakens, Zillertal transforms into a lush and vibrant wonderland. Spring is an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region’s extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. Admire the blooming alpine flowers, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and take in the stunning views from various viewpoints. Springtime also marks the start of the rafting and kayaking season, offering thrilling adventures on the Ziller River. For those seeking relaxation, the region’s spas and wellness centers provide a tranquil escape.

Summer:

Summer in Zillertal brings endless opportunities for outdoor fun. Hiking remains a popular activity, with trails suitable for all skill levels. From leisurely walks through meadows to challenging summit hikes, there’s something for everyone. Mountain biking, e-biking, and climbing are also widely enjoyed, with numerous trails and climbing routes to explore. Adventure seekers can try paragliding or canyoning for an adrenaline rush. Families can head to the themed adventure parks, and kids can have a blast at the various playgrounds. Additionally, summer concerts and cultural events add a vibrant touch to the region’s charm.

Autumn:

As the landscape transforms into a tapestry of vibrant colors, autumn in Zillertal offers a breathtaking sight. This season is perfect for scenic drives along winding roads, taking in the golden hues of the forests. Hiking and cycling continue to be enjoyable, with cooler temperatures making outdoor activities pleasant. Autumn also marks the start of the Törggelen tradition, where visitors can savor local delicacies and wines in cozy mountain huts and traditional taverns. It’s an excellent time to experience the region’s culinary delights and celebrate the harvest season.

Winter:

When winter descends upon Zillertal, the region becomes a winter wonderland with numerous opportunities for snow-filled adventures. Skiers and snowboarders can hit the slopes in one of the four ski areas: Hochzillertal-Hochfügen, Zillertal Arena, Mayrhofen, and Spieljoch. Cross-country skiing enthusiasts can explore the well-groomed trails, and winter hikers can enjoy serene walks amidst the snowy landscapes. Families can partake in sledding and ice-skating, and those seeking relaxation can unwind in the region’s thermal spas. Christmas markets and seasonal festivities add a magical touch to the winter experience.

No matter the season, Zillertal provides a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking unforgettable experiences. Each season brings its own charm and activities, making Zillertal a truly year-round playground for all to enjoy. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mari Pop Hotel in the Zillertal region of Austria offers a unique and inviting experience for vegan travelers. While it may not boast the incredible vegan food at 100% vegan hotels like  Agrivilla I Pini or La Vimea in Italy, Mari Pop stands out for its thoughtful promotion of vegan options and its warm embrace of all guests, whether staying at the hotel or simply dropping in for a delightful meal. If you’re seeking a vegan-friendly haven amidst the Austrian Alps, where you can enjoy quality, healthy food without the need to explain your dietary preferences, Mari Pop Hotel is definitely a fantastic choice. While I may not go out of my way to stay here, it unquestionably serves as an appealing and welcoming destination for an unforgettable culinary and alpine adventure. So, for a memorable experience exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Zillertal and savoring a variety of delicious plant-based dishes, Mari Pop Hotel is undoubtedly a place worth considering.