A Lakeside Castle Hotel in the Austrian Alps
1. Rosewood Restores Schloss Fuschl
The castles of the German and Austrian Alps are celebrated for their enchanting ambiance. The famed turreted silhouette featured in a major entertainment company's logo was inspired by Neuschwanstein, King Ludwig II’s Bavarian palace near the border of the two countries. Schloss Fuschl, situated on a lush, green-ringed, glacial lake 20 minutes outside of Salzburg, is another prime example.
Built in 1461, this expansive stone estate served for four centuries as a grand hunting lodge for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg, who governed the region under the Holy Roman Empire, along with their royal guests. After World War II, the castle (“schloss” in German) was transformed into a hotel that mostly operated seasonally, from April through October, until 2022, when a luxury hotel group acquired the property and began a renovation. On July 1, Schloss Fuschl will reopen with 98 guest rooms, including six stand-alone chalets. The property features six dining establishments and bars; indoor and outdoor infinity pools; a spa with three saunas and eight treatment rooms; and access to Lake Fuschl, where guests can partake in fishing trips, boat rides, and nature walks led by a herbalist. Although the castle never housed the likes of Cinderella or Rapunzel, it did host a movie princess: Fans of midcentury cinema might recognize the location from Romy Schneider’s “Sisi” films — a historical trilogy about the young Elisabeth of Austria — filmed there in the 1950s. Today, the Sisi Teesalon honors the character's name and offers afternoon tea service with a variety of homemade pastries, including the Schloss Fuschl Torte, a chocolate-hazelnut truffle cake first created in the house kitchen more than 30 years ago. Rates start at approximately $695 per night.
2. Schloss Ernegg: A Storied Sanctuary in the Austrian Alps
Perched elegantly in the serene foothills of the Austrian Alps, Schloss Ernegg offers a retreat that marries the majesty of medieval architecture with the understated elegance of aristocratic living. This venerable castle, steeped in centuries of history, invites discerning travelers to immerse themselves in a narrative as rich and enduring as the landscapes that envelop it.
As you step through the ancient doors of Schloss Ernegg, you are embraced by an atmosphere brimming with antiquity and allure. The castle's interiors are a testament to its grand past, featuring original period furniture that whispers tales of yesteryears, rich tapestries that adorn the walls, and meticulously restored oil paintings that bring historical scenes to life. The attention to detail in preserving the authenticity of this noble residence ensures that every stay is infused with an air of exclusivity and prestige.
Accommodations at Schloss Ernegg are nothing short of regal. Each room serves as a private sanctuary where luxury meets legacy—ornate, yet tastefully appointed with modern amenities to cater to the needs of the modern traveler. The knights' hall and private salons stand ready to transport guests back to an era of banquets and ballrooms, while the castle’s dining room offers a culinary journey with panoramic alpine vistas that frame each meal.
Golf enthusiasts will find delight in the proximity to Golf Club Ernegg, where the green fairways contrast beautifully with the rugged alpine backdrop. Beyond golf, the castle grounds beckon for leisurely strolls or spirited explorations, ensuring that every moment at Schloss Ernegg is an encounter with the extraordinary.
3. Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee: A Lakeside Jewel in the Austrian Alps
Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee, nestled at the foot of the majestic Fernpass and mere kilometers from Zugspitze Mountain, emerges as a sanctuary of natural beauty and historic charm. This distinctive castle hotel, surrounded by a private expanse of 280,000 m², complete with two vibrant emerald lakes, provides an intimate escape into the heart of the Austrian Alps.
As you approach the castle, the stunning setting unfolds before you, where ancient stone melds seamlessly with lush greenery and crystalline waters, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a retreat from the ordinary. Inside, Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee balances the rich tapestry of its historical roots with the comfort and sophistication demanded by today’s discerning traveler. The castle’s interior is a careful curation of classic elegance and contemporary luxury, making each guest feel like nobility.
The guest rooms and suites at Schloss Fernsteinsee are designed to be sanctuaries of tranquility and luxury. High ceilings and windows open up to picturesque views of the alpine landscape and lakes, while plush furnishings ensure comfort that envelops you after a day of exploration. Here, the outside world fades away, and the focus shifts to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Dining at the hotel is an experience in itself. The restaurant capitalizes on its stunning lakeside location, offering dishes that are inspired by local flavors and prepared with ingredients sourced from the surrounding regions. Each meal is a celebration of the Alpine culinary tradition, enhanced by views that stretch across the mirror-like surface of Fernsteinsee to the rugged peaks beyond.
Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee also offers a plethora of activities to enrich your stay. From hiking and fishing in the warmer months to skiing and snowboarding in winter, the hotel is a gateway to the diverse offerings of the Austrian Alps. Whether it's a leisurely stroll around the lakes or an adventurous hike up the mountains, the experiences here are as limitless as the panoramic vistas.
In essence, Hotel Schloss Fernsteinsee is more than just a place to rest—it is a destination that entices with its blend of natural beauty, historic allure, and modern luxury, promising an unforgettable escape into the splendor of the Austrian Alps.
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