Our Story
Embark on a journey through time
The tale unfolds in the picturesque mountains of Austria, where an alpine adventure and a serendipitous meeting took place within the walls of a mountain hotel. Picture Erin embarking on her inaugural European journey, trudging through hours of thick snowfall to finally enter the lobby. Walter, then working at the reception, found himself captivated by this spirited explorer whose smile had the power to light up an entire room.
Walter’s family owned a building in Vienna, and their inspiration stemmed from the hostels they encountered overseas—places so distinct from the youth homes run by church organizations in Central Europe. Longing to create a haven in post-war Vienna, a city shaken and distrustful of outsiders, the couple set the wheels in motion. In the spring of 1968, the doors swung open for the first time, marking the beginning of a dream realized, initially as a humble “student residence.”
Making a dream come true
A Legacy Transformed in the Late 1960s
Our charming apartment building, now the heart of Hostel Ruthensteiner, underwent a profound transformation in the late 1960s. Walter, a meticulous planner and skilled woodworker, and Erin, the warm and approachable people’s person, embarked on a journey to renovate the building. As they breathed new life into its walls, they left behind the scars of World War II—bullet holes still visible as poignant reminders of the past.
During slower winters, the duo devoted themselves to their dream, working tirelessly in San Francisco, putting in long hours on boats to secure the funds needed to turn their vision into reality.
Cold war, Vienna, the soviet union
A Refuge Amidst the Cold War Turmoil
The tumultuous times of the Cold War ushered in a unique chapter for Hostel Ruthensteiner. In 1968, intellectuals escaping the aftermath of the Prague Spring and the Soviet Union’s occupation of Czechoslovakia sought refuge within these walls. From here, many were able to organize visas that would eventually allow them to settle in places like Australia, South Africa, Canada, the U.S.A., and so on. Some stayed in Vienna for only a few weeks – others stayed for months before they finally bid the hostel farewell. Many of these first guests from the late 60s and early 70s have later returned to visit, coming to us from all corners of the globe in order to show their families where it all began.
From Refuge to Renown
As the Cold War yielded to an era of expansion and optimism, Hostel Ruthensteiner ascended to become Austria’s premier hostel. Lines formed around the block during peak train arrival times, a testament to the hostel’s reputation. Reservations became a common practice in the ’90s, with the advent of instant bookings in 2010 revolutionizing the dynamics at our reception forever. The way we welcomed travelers underwent a transformative shift, embracing the efficiency of the digital age while preserving the warmth and hospitality that define our legacy.
New Generation Takeover
Keeping the spirit through modern times
Fast forward to 2018, where our flyer proudly touted “free hot water.” The term “poshtel” emerged in 2018, and Hostel Ruthensteiner adapted to the evolving needs of a new generation of travelers and digital nomads. Comfort was added thoughtfully, keeping in mind the essence that can’t be captured in an Instagram post—the warmth between people and the love for our work of providing strangers a true home away from home.
In 2014, after 46 incredible years, the founders retired, passing the torch to a new generation within the “Ruthi tribe.” Since then, the hostel has embraced fresh energy, hosting local and international artists, concerts, and acting as an art gallery. With team members spanning 30 years and a program of work travelers infusing new ideas, Hostel Ruthensteiner remains young at heart while staying true to its values.
Join us on this journey, where the spirit of adventure meets the warmth of home, and every traveler becomes a part of the Hostel Ruthensteiner legacy.