Feldberg Youth Hostel to Close After 68 Years, Citing Declining Stays and High Renovation Costs
The Feldberg youth hostel, once a bustling hub for young visitors, has seen a significant decline in overnight stays over the years. With around 26,800 bookings in 2022, compared to over 74,500 in 1973, the hostel is set to close by the end of October 2023. The closure is expected to result in a total of 27,000 fewer overnight stays per year, impacting the municipality's tourist tax income.
The decline in guests can be attributed to several factors. Inconsistent winters in the Black Forest and the shift of ski tourism to the Alps have contributed to the decrease. Additionally, the connection to public transport for the youth hostel has been insufficient, making it less accessible for visitors. The building, originally constructed as a hotel in 1907 and a youth hostel since 1955, requires significant renovation to meet current quality, safety, and energy-efficiency standards. The estimated cost of renovation is in the tens of millions, which the Youth Hostel Association cannot afford. The municipality of Feldberg has criticized insufficient funding from the state of Baden-Württemberg for renovations in rural areas, with funding needed from the special fund for education and care infrastructure.
The closure of the 'Hebelhof' youth hostel on the Feldberg is expected to have a significant impact on the local tourism industry and the municipality's tourist tax income. The building's future remains uncertain, with negotiations ongoing about its potential reuse. The municipality and the Youth Hostel Association await further developments and potential solutions.
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