The new year is off to a colorful, youthful, and energetic start
New Year’s Eve—what kind of celebration was that, exactly? We’re still at a loss for words to describe this wonderful and atmospheric New Year’s celebration, and we’re so grateful for this start to the year—which felt more like a “state of emergency, but a beautiful one”—and which gave our guests and our team a real burst of energy to kick off the new year.
And then there’s the snow—I know, people always say that we up north go crazy the moment it starts to snow. But it hasn’t been this beautiful in a long time—a snow-white winter landscape, crisp, cold air, a picture-perfect starry sky, and the crowning touch—the Northern Lights over the dunes—it simply couldn’t have been more magical.
Against this enchanting winter backdrop, our rehearsals for the restart in early February began—this process of getting into the groove, fine-tuning, and fine-tuning—which you don’t see later on but feel immediately—is a very important ritual for us, one that not only brings us joy but also, and above all, gives the younger members of our team a sense of routine and confidence.
At the same time, the final preparations for the Lêhrlingshof were underway. As is often the case with us, a lot was happening at once—renovations, rehearsals, planning—and that’s exactly how it had to be.
This phase also saw an important change behind the scenes: Alexandra Becher and her team oversaw a crucial system transition. That sounds very technical, but it laid the groundwork for everything to run more smoothly on the front end: processes, coordination, communication—things that guests don’t single out individually, but feel as a whole. And then came the moment I wish for every team: a well-deserved vacation.
Many went on vacation, took a breather, visited friends or family, and recharged—before the Lêhrlingshof took over the house. That break was important—for our minds, for our energy, and for what was to come.
I’m typing these lines with a huge grin on my face—because the wonderful memories of these days will last forever. The last guests left on January 18—and I can tell you this: I knew it would turn out well. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have done it. I don’t play with our guests’ expectations—and I certainly don’t want employees to leave frustrated because we promised more than we could deliver.
But what happened next surprised even me. The quality of it all. The warmth that was palpable—on both sides. How our guests literally carried these dedicated young people with their appreciation. And what an incredibly special time it turned out to be. I couldn’t have imagined it even in my wildest dreams.
Every single one of our apprentices really gave it their all and delivered. And the greatest thing about it for me wasn’t just that our guests had a wonderful stay—but that the apprentices stepped into leadership roles: taking responsibility, making decisions together, supporting one another—these important experiences were made possible. Not that “I’ll do it alone, I have two hands” mentality—but rather, working together as a team to achieve something great and celebrating success together. That was exactly what I wanted. And they pulled it off so well that on some evenings I really thought: Okay. This is more than just a project. It’s a real sign.
Lêhrlingshof 2027 – Dates Set, Program in the Works
And that’s why it’s clear: The Lêhrlingshof will still be around in 2027, and we even have the dates set already. The The 2-week Hof Apprenticeship Program 2027 will take place from January 6 to 10 and from January 13 to 17.
But even though the dates have already been set, we’re starting with a blank slate again and letting our trainees’ creativity run wild. W Whether you’d like to join us again or experience it for the first time, please feel free to get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you. This time, there won’t be any downtime between the Söl’ring Hof and the Lêhrlingshof, so there will be a seamless transition.
We’ll post all the news as soon as our apprentices are happy with their program and have put together a great package for you.
After this incredible “maiden voyage,” we closed our doors for a birthday celebration—a 5-day exclusive booking with 120 guests and a host who was celebrated by his family, friends, and us with a one-of-a-kind program. Even though we’re no strangers to exclusive events, this one was unique in its scale, and the entire team poured their hearts into making this house party a reality. And so we’re looking forward to the next time, because it’s simply a joy to give people an indescribable experience in this way.
After that, it wasn’t just a matter of tidying up, the way we do a little spring cleaning every January. We cleaned, deep-cleaned, sanded, and polished; we renovated and refurbished. Painters, carpenters, fireplace builders—tradespeople of all kinds have been coming and going. New Dyson hair dryers have now been installed in every room—anyone who’s used them knows these things are simply great. It’s no big deal—but it’s a clear sign of even greater comfort. Our guests can tell when a hotel takes good care of itself, when things not only work but are also of high quality.
Every new beginning also involves some goodbyes. We’re saying goodbye to some wonderful colleagues: Luise, Lennox, Marie, and Annabell—thank you for everything you’ve helped shape here; you were a very important part of our team. We’re very pleased that we’ve been able to fill these positions, bringing new faces to our organization—because change is what defines us, and that’s a good thing.
At the same time, I am very pleased to announce two important changes to the team:
Jan Luca is taking over as the new sommelier (replacing Marie), providing wine recommendations with his usual charm and conviction—and Nils is becoming the assistant restaurant manager. These two personnel changes clearly point to the direction we’re heading in for 2026: attitude, quality, and growth. It’s a great pleasure to work with you both, and we congratulate you on this important next step, which will enrich our entire team.
As I write these lines, we’re already getting things back up and running. The teams are returning well-rested and full of energy; we’re back to full strength—and we’re ready. Ready for a sensational 2026.
Because February really packs a punch right from the start:
- King Classic – Johannes Returns to the Dune. It’s going to be a celebration of the joy of life.
- Biike falls on a weekend—come join us and welcome spring with a big bonfire on the beach.
- Valentine’s Day, too—it’s going to be romantic on the dune. Come visit us for a getaway for two—it’s wonderfully peaceful and relaxing.
- And then: no fewer than three Masters of Wine will be joining us—and we promise you a truly unique Mediterranean weekend.
And as if that weren’t enough, a rare wine tasting and an oyster week are already waiting for you. I’d say there’s plenty to do and plenty of reasons for you to visit us. I’m very much looking forward to welcoming you here in this wonderful year of 2026, and I wish you a wonderful start to February—spring is just around the corner.
Warm regards from the dunes,
Jan-Philipp Berner