The Rauhnächte in the Allgäu - a very special time

There are times of the year that feel a little different. Quieter times. Deeper times. Times when you almost feel like the world wants to pause for a moment.

One of these special phases are the Rauhnächte - twelve nights between Christmas and Epiphany, which have been celebrated, lived and lovingly preserved here in the Allgäu for generations.

For me, the Rauhnächte are moments that always ground me. Perhaps because they invite us to let go of the old. Perhaps because they remind us to be open to the new. Or perhaps simply because they bring us a little closer to ourselves.

What makes the Rauhnächte so special

The Rauhnächte have a long tradition. It used to be believed that the boundary between our world and the "other world" becomes thinner during this time - that you can feel more clearly what you want to let go of and what can come with you into the new year.

The term "Rauhnacht" probably comes from burning incense. Even today, many families in the Allgäu region of Germany still go through their homes and stables with herbs such as juniper, sage and mugwort. Not as a ritual that means "must", but as a small sign of peace, protection and a new beginning.

Twelve nights - twelve months

Each night represents a month in the coming year. I always find it fascinating how much you notice when you give yourself a little time: thoughts, dreams, encounters or small inner impulses.

Many people write down a few lines during the Rauhnächte. Others burn incense. Still others consciously withdraw, sit together by candlelight or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of winter. Everything is allowed. Nothing has to be.

Rough nights in the Alpzitt - you can feel it

Maybe it's because our chalet village itself is a place of arrival. Maybe it's the mountains, which speak their own language in winter. Perhaps it's the warmth that arises when guests are allowed to let go.

During the Rauhnächte, the Alpzitt has a special energy for me:

• The crackling in the fireplace.
• The clear winter air outside the hut door in the morning.
• The feeling that the days are slowing down.

Many of our guests tell us that they feel things here that get lost in everyday life. And I think that's exactly what the Rauhnächte are for.

Our little rituals
We have a few things as tradition - not fixed, not strict, but as an invitation:

Smoking

With herbs from the Allgäu. Simply to open up the rooms and calm the mind.

Wishes for the new year

Twelve wishes, twelve nights. Eleven are burned - one remains. And that is the wish that you take care of yourself.

Gratitude

We look back on the year, on everything that was beautiful, but also on what was difficult. Both belong to us.

What the Rauhnächte teach us

Perhaps the most important thing is that we can get a little closer to ourselves again. That we give ourselves time - real, quiet time. And that we can trust that the new will find its way when we are ready.

A personal wish to conclude

If you spend the Rauhnächte with us - or at home - I wish you: Lightness for what you want to let go of. Courage for what may come.

And lots of warmth for the people around you. May each of the twelve nights be a little light for your new year.

From the heart - yours

Sonja