In a strategic partnership, the Falkensteiner Michaeler Tourism Group (FMTG), Merkur Versicherung and Granit are collaborating to further develop the Loipersdorf Thermal Resort and Hotel Das Sonnreich in the long term. FMTG is acquiring a stake in the thermal spa and taking over the operational management of the Loipersdorf Thermal Resort, the Congress Loipersdorf and Hotel Das Sonnreich. The necessary anti-trust approval process is currently pending.
The Loipersdorf Thermal Resort, located in the south-east of Styria not far from the Burgenland border, records approximately 478,000 visitors annually. It is considered Austria's largest thermal spa and is one of the country's most significant tourist facilities. The resort integrates three thermal spa areas, a hotel, a convention centre, health services from Merkur Health, and various leisure activities all at one location. The aim of the partnership is to enhance the resort's appeal and solidify its position as a leading tourism destination.
Strengthening Through Collaboration
Otmar Michaeler, CEO of the Falkensteiner Michaeler Tourism Group, stated that the commitment in Loipersdorf is based on a location with solid foundations, high recognition and significant development potential. He highlighted the long-standing collaboration with Granit and Merkur Versicherung, from which the idea arose for FMTG to participate in the Bad Loipersdorf location – not only as the operator of Hotel 'Das Sonnreich', but of the entire thermal resort. This shared vision of developing a traditional thermal resort motivated all parties involved.
For Falkensteiner, the structure in Bad Loipersdorf reflects a development that combines high-quality hospitality, health expertise, relaxation and an active quality of life. Topics such as health, prevention, regeneration and holistic well-being are becoming increasingly relevant for guests. Loipersdorf offers suitable conditions with its combination of thermal spa, hotel, health services and convention infrastructure. The location is also close to important source markets, Styria and Lower Austria, and offers services that go far beyond a classic thermal spa model.
Erich Falkensteiner, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of FMTG, emphasised the future orientation of tourism towards health, vitality and conscious quality of life. Bad Loipersdorf combines tourist quality, health expertise and regional identity. The region possesses considerable potential. FMTG will bring in international expertise while respecting the history of the location, its employees and the existing tourist structures. The owners view the partnership as a decisive step for the long-term development of the resort.
Planned Developments and Expansions
The thermal spa and hotel are to be progressively developed in the coming years. Following the completion of modernisation, Hotel Das Sonnreich will operate as a 4-star-superior Falkensteiner Hotel Loipersdorf from summer 2027, with an increased focus on families. The offering will be complemented by new leisure and well-being services, as well as prevention programmes from Merkur Lifestyle, a subsidiary of Merkur Versicherung. The direct connection to the thermal spa will remain. The thermal spa itself will also be gradually developed, with a focus on new family offerings, the modernisation of existing areas and the further development of the premium segment around the Schaffelbad. The aim is to increase the quality of stay and enhance the attractiveness of the location overall.
The Executive Board of Merkur Versicherung highlighted that the Loipersdorf Thermal Resort is of central importance for the local economy. With Falkensteiner, targeted investment is being made in the heart of the Styrian thermal landscape to sustainably strengthen the location and generate economic impetus. Günther Lederhaas, Managing Director of Granit Holding, stressed the long-term strengthening of the economic and tourism location as the overriding goal. He described Therme Loipersdorf as a flagship enterprise with great economic significance for south-east Styria. The partnership also expands the portfolio for FMTG Invest investors by adding Loipersdorf as a renowned well-being location. Special attention is being paid to the local employees, neighbouring hotel establishments and local tourist providers.
