Daniel Albrecht, the former ski world champion, is developing a sustainable residential and vacation resort in the village of Fiesch, Valais. The eco-tourism project, located in the “Granacher” area, will feature over 1,700 square meters of living space.
Sustainable Architecture and the “Mondholz” Concept
The project emphasizes a highly sustainable approach to construction, utilizing “Mondholz” (moon wood). This involves using untreated spruce and larch harvested exclusively from the local region.
To further reduce environmental impact, the developers are using wooden dowels instead of glue. Because only 15 percent of the installed wood is visible, the project can incorporate materials that might otherwise be unusable.
Project Scope and Property Management
The planned development consists of five detached houses, one Tiny House, and four apartment buildings containing a total of 12 apartments. Most of these units will be sold as managed tourist properties.
Under this model, owners are permitted to use their properties for only limited periods each year and must rent them out for the remaining time. This distinguishes the units from standard vacation homes.
The “Mondhaus,” completed in 2016, serves as the centerpiece of the resort. Unlike the other units, the Mondhaus can be purchased as a private primary residence.
Personal Transition and Future Outlook
The project marks a new chapter for Albrecht, who previously sold his fashion brand to Ochsner Sport. The former athlete, who spent weeks in a coma following a severe crash in 2009, owns the land where the resort is being built.
Albrecht has resided in the Mondhaus with his wife, Kerstin, and their daughter, Maria. While the couple is now separated, they continue to live together for the sake of their daughter. The Mondhaus is now included in the sale as part of the larger project.
The building permit process has been completed, though the legally binding permit is still pending. If the process continues as planned, sales for the properties could commence in May.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Mondhaus” and how does it differ from other units?
The Mondhaus is the centerpiece of the resort, completed in 2016. While most units are sold as managed tourist properties with limited owner use, the Mondhaus can be purchased as a private primary residence.
What are the restrictions for owners of the vacation units?
The units are sold as managed tourist properties. In other words owners can only occupy the homes for limited periods and are required to rent the properties out for the rest of the year.
What makes the construction of the resort sustainable?
The resort uses untreated, regionally sourced spruce and larch “Mondholz” and employs wooden dowels instead of glue. It utilizes materials that would otherwise be unusable by keeping 85 percent of the wood out of sight.
Would you be interested in a vacation home that requires you to rent it out for the majority of the year in exchange for sustainable construction?
