When the Austrian newspaper Die Presse announced a photography workshop at the historic Südbahnhotel, located at the famous Semmering Pass near Vienna, I didn’t hesitate to sign up.
Visiting the Südbahnhotel was an impressive journey through time. Opened in 1882 as a grand hotel, it marked the beginning of Semmering’s rise as a climatic health resort and quickly became a symbol of elegance, leisure, and early alpine tourism.
Hotel operations ended in 1960, and in the decades that followed, various owners pursued different visions—many of which left visible traces throughout the building. For a long time, the hotel stood partially abandoned, its fading grandeur creating a haunting yet fascinating atmosphere that photographers can’t resist.
In 2021, the Südbahnhotel found a new owner with a clear and ambitious vision: to revive the former Grand Hotel as a place for culture, encounters, and relaxation. Just about an hour from Vienna by car or train, it is now being carefully reimagined—honoring its history while opening a new chapter for the future.
An inspiring location, rich in stories, textures, and light—perfect for both photography and reflection.