Forsthofgut Nature Hotel in the heart of Leogang, Austria, is proud to unveil its newest culinary experience: silva — a fine dining restaurant that celebrates the essence of nature through sustainable, seasonal dishes. Named after the Latin word for “forest,” silva invites guests to indulge in a menu inspired by the natural world, where every bite reflects the rhythm of the earth itself.
At silva, dining is more than just a meal — it’s a journey through the world’s forests, where the flavors of nature take center stage. The restaurant’s philosophy, guided by renowned Chef Michael Helfrich and his talented team, revolves around authenticity, simplicity, and a deep respect for the environment. The team highlights the treasures of forests from around the globe, sourcing ingredients that are both fresh and sustainable.
This isn’t just about food; it’s about reconnecting with the land. Each dish is designed to showcase the true essence of its ingredients, allowing guests to experience the flavors of the earth in their purest form. From delicate fermentations to the subtle smokiness of traditional techniques, silva celebrates environmentally conscious cooking that encourages mindfulness of the planet’s diverse ecosystems.
With a seating capacity of just 10 guests, silva offers a truly intimate dining experience. This exclusivity ensures that each guest receives personalized attention while enjoying a thoughtfully curated meal. The menu consists of two tasting options: the classic Forest menu and the vegan Meadow menu.
The Forest menu includes a range of exquisite dishes, such as braised mountain ox and locally sourced brook trout, celebrating the richness of local produce and alpine flavors. Meanwhile, the Meadow menu offers a vibrant plant-based selection, featuring highlights like a stew of pickled mushrooms and salsify with hazelnut crêpes, ensuring that every dish is as innovative as it is sustainable.
Whether a meat lover or vegan, silva creates a memorable dining experience that appeals to all tastes while reinforcing its commitment to authenticity and sustainability.
Forsthofgut Nature Hotel has long been dedicated to sustainable practices, and silva embodies this ethos at every level. The restaurant emphasizes the use of seasonal produce, carefully sourced at its peak to ensure maximum flavor and minimal waste. Furthermore, the team uses traditional preservation techniques, such as fermenting and smoking, to create a deeper appreciation for both the ingredients and the planet from which they come.
Forsthofgut’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the dining experience. The hotel itself integrates eco-conscious practices into its daily operations. Through initiatives like waldLIEBE, which sequesters 500 tons of carbon dioxide annually, and sourcing 70% of its vegetables from local organic farmers, Forsthofgut continues to demonstrate its passion for environmental stewardship.
Beyond silva, Forsthofgut Nature Hotel offers a variety of luxurious amenities designed to immerse guests in nature. The hotel features 109 rooms and suites that combine modern comforts with traditional Alpine charm, making it the perfect retreat in any season.
For those looking for relaxation and rejuvenation, the award-winning waldSPA (forest spa) offers an array of treatments inspired by the natural world. There are also several other dining options, including á la carte restaurants and the Botanist Bar, as well as a forest-themed wine cellar for the ultimate culinary indulgence. The surrounding area offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and horseback riding in the summer to world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter. For families, the on-site miniGUT children’s farm provides a hands-on, nature-filled experience.
