Austrian hospitality group The Eder Collection is expanding its portfolio in the Pinzgau district of Salzburg. Under the leadership of owner Sepp Schwaiger, the ONKEL LENZ project is being created in the centre of Maria Alm on the site of the former forester's lodge. The scheme, conceived as a fitness and community centre, is scheduled to open in 2027.
Repurposing of the former forester's lodge site in the village centre
The structural development on the central plot envisages a combination of sports spaces and club rooms. The scheme differs conceptually from conventional gyms. The design draws on stylistic elements from past decades, linking this retro aesthetic with the requirements of a contemporary meeting place for locals and holidaymakers of all generations.
- —Central location on the plot of the former forester's lodge in the village centre
- —Target completion and opening scheduled for 2027
- —Combination of sports facilities and multi-generational common areas
- —Early community building via the onkellenz.com platform
The project avoids traditional membership models and instead places the club-oriented community at its centre. Via the dedicated project platform, interested parties can register under the name LENZ Friendz ahead of completion in order to become part of the new venue's network at an early stage.
Expansion of the regional hospitality brand
For The Eder Collection, the property represents another component of its location strategy in Maria Alm, where the group already operates concepts including TaNte FriDa. Regarding its focus, owner Sepp Schwaiger explained that the emphasis is on people looking to combine exercise with personal connection. Opening such a club in a major city would be an obvious move, but in rural Maria Alm it represents a more appealing challenge.
Detailed planning specifics and spatial layouts are currently being kept under wraps by the company. With the opening scheduled for 2027, the property is intended to provide a permanent addition to the municipality's sports and social offerings.
