Live Launch of Camping Steinplatte: A Transformation, Not Just a Software Change

In today’s camping industry, more than ever, campsites are facing the challenge of reinvention: Glamping instead of traditional pitches, digital guest journeys instead of paper forms, and attracting new target groups with high expectations, moving beyond the traditional base of permanent campers and regular guests. Camping Steinplatte in Tyrol was facing exactly this transformation. We spoke to Marco Höglinger, a concept developer and consultant in the hospitality industry, who guided the transformation of the Steinplatte campsite.

Marco, How Did You Become Involved with Camping Steinplatte?

Marco: I was brought on board because a fundamental transformation of the campsite was planned. A central theme in this was 'glamping.' My role was to explore and realise the possibilities around glamping, which led to the sub-project ‘Camp Waidring’ featuring boutique tents, cabins, and cool apartments. At the same time, we recognised the need for digitalisation to move forward. So, glamping and digitalisation were both key topics that came together.

It wasn’t primarily about introducing a new PMS (Property Management System). That was more of a 'side effect' of the reorganisation.

Why Choose Booking Experts? What Was the Deciding Factor?

Marco: I looked at several systems, such as Mews, Apaleo, and other hotel PMSs. However, for a vacation park setup with glamping, apartments, and a variety of needed interfaces, it quickly became clear that these systems didn’t meet our requirements.

Booking Experts understands the industry and is designed specifically for vacation parks. With its interfaces to various service providers, it was the only solution that matched our structure. I found you through internet research, later reached out to you at ITB Berlin, and then had a direct conversation with your team.

 

What Ultimately Strengthened Your Trust in Booking Experts?

Marco: Your platform was already technically impressive, but what truly stood out were the people and the strategy behind it. When we realised that you were building a German-speaking team and specifically focusing on the DACH market, that was a strong signal for us and cleared the way.

We ultimately switched to Booking Experts at the same time as Ferienparadies Natterer See, another campsite in Tyrol. This made us feel part of a future-forward movement within the Austrian industry and gave us additional confidence.

What Was the Initial Situation at the Campsite?

Marco: Before the current owners took over, everything was run on Excel. Bookings were made via phone or email, and a basic management tool was introduced, which allowed for online booking and payment. While this worked, it quickly reached its limits, especially in terms of reporting.

A lot of processes were still paper-based, and there were no interfaces with Feratel (the reporting solution in Austria). That was one of my main focuses: finding a system that offers a connection to Feratel and allows for pre-check-in. In the end, that was one of my main arguments for choosing Booking Experts.

What Does the Switch Mean for Day-to-Day Operations?

Marco: Automated processes for bookings, payments, and reporting have been a huge relief for the team. What we really notice is that guests are embracing digital processes. In the past, many bookings were done via phone or email. Now, 90–95% of bookings are processed entirely online through Booking Experts.

What Role Does Customer Support Play for You?

Marco: Customer support is crucial, especially during the onboarding phase and in day-to-day operations. You need reliable, fast support, and we get that with you, whether it’s via chat, phone, or email. That was a major issue with the previous provider. With them, you’d submit a ticket, and then never hear anything again. That’s a non-starter for a business.

Are There Other Digitalisation Goals?

Marco: Yes, we aim to automate electricity meter readings, introduce access systems such as ID recognition for barriers, and integrate door locking systems for glamping units. This is exactly where Booking Experts excels, as you function as a platform with your app store, connecting with numerous partners.

What Did You Enjoy Most About the Project?

Marco: The combination of innovation and reality. Coming from the digitalisation world, it was exciting to see how new, immersive experiences can be created at a campsite. Glamping appeals to new target groups who expect a different guest journey. They book digitally, pay online, and start their vacation right away.

Many guests have said, "We're not typical campers, but that was really cool." That’s when you know: we did it right.

Would You Consider the Project a Pioneer Initiative?

Marco: Absolutely. The Steinplatte project is a beacon for the outdoor hospitality industry. New types of accommodations, a digital guest experience, and modern target groups-that’s the future. Booking Experts has played a central role in this journey.

Camping Steinplatte shows what modern outdoor tourism can look like today. Together with Booking Experts, we’ve created an innovative setup that’s setting new standards in the industry.

Want to Know How to Future-Proof Your Campsite?

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