Schloss Elmau
2nd place: A sprawling park, the imposing Wetterstein mountain, a rushing mountain stream, and the deafening sound of silence in this magnificent natural setting: Schloss Elmau is the perfect retreat.
After a fire in August 2005 destroyed two-thirds of the historic estate, Schloss Elmau reopened in 2007—following a 14-month construction period and based on designs by Christoph Sattler and Dietmar Mueller-Elmau—in all its new splendor as a “Luxury Spa & Cultural Hideaway.” Since then, this member of The Leading Hotels of the World has received numerous national and international accolades as one of the world’s finest hotels. Once again guided by the designs of Christoph Sattler and Dietmar Mueller-Elmau, the “Luxury Suites & Spa Retreat” debuted in March 2015 following two years of construction; as a “hotel within a hotel,” it stands both as an integral part of Schloss Elmau and as a world unto itself. Together, these two stylish components of a larger, lavish ensemble enable Schloss Elmau—nestled 100 km south of Munich in the high valley of the Bavarian Alps—to enchant guests as a wellness retreat without peer.
the
At Schloss Elmau, living is elevated to a fine art. The architecture and interior design are characterized by a tension between complexity, diversity, and contradiction. Within the expansive yet intimate chambers of the two 5-star hotels, natural materials sourced from across the globe are combined with exacting attention to detail and understated elegance to fashion contemporary comfort. The pristine mountain panorama and the inherent texture of the materials are woven with subtle Asian influences and warm lighting into a cohesive, artful concept. The cosmopolitan ambience of these retreats—furnished in a style that is as individual as it is timelessly modern—is further enhanced by luxurious beds from Schramm, oiled oak parquet flooring, American cherry wood cabinets, spacious bathrooms featuring natural Jura stone, hand-woven carpets from Iran, and the finest linen from India.
Schloss Elmau offers a unique cultural program featuring first-class concerts, readings, and discussions. International artists, authors, and thinkers perform in an intimate atmosphere—a cultural gem in the heart of the Alps that inspires both mind and senses alike. In addition to music and literature, Schloss Elmau also offers inspiring retreats, yoga workshops, and philosophical discussions. The harmonious fusion of nature, culture, and spiritual depth renders the estate a singular sanctuary for meaningful encounters and inner reflection.
: Guests in search of profound relaxation will be enthralled by Schloss Elmau, for no fewer than six spas invite wellness enthusiasts to unwind. The bathhouse, featuring an infinity rooftop pool, an infinity saltwater pool, and a cold-plunge pool, is reserved exclusively for adults. A Finnish sauna and a salt-water steam bath offer soothing heat, while the sun terrace beckons for contemplative repose. The bathhouse also encompasses the Lady Spa, featuring a Finnish sauna and an intimate relaxation chamber. In the Oriental Hamam—also reserved for adults—East meets West: Spanning 500 square meters, it features three domed rooms with navel stones, four treatment rooms, two steam baths, and an Oriental Tea Lounge. From June through September, the Natur Spa beckons all guests as a vast oasis of tranquility and energy right on the Ferchenbach. At the Family Spa, families and children can enjoy wellness in the lap pool and various themed saunas. Additionally, the bathhouse offers special treatments for children and teens. The Shantigiri Spa offers separate areas for adults and families—featuring an open-air infinity lap pool, a fitness area, and a large relaxation room with an open fireplace and views of the mountains.
: A stay at Schloss Elmau quickly turns into a culinary world tour, as guests are pampered in no fewer than 10 restaurants. The spectrum encompasses haute cuisine—rewarded with two Michelin stars and 18 Gault&Millau points—at IKIGAI (formerly Luce d’Oro), the Mediterranean refinement of the fine-dining establishment Summit, and Thai haute cuisine with 15 Gault&Millau points at Fidelio. Families will delight in Tutto Mondo and La Salle, while the two spa restaurants, Ganesha and Ananda, present light, nourishing fare; up at the Elmauer Alm, perched at 1,203 meters, rustic specialties take centre stage. The fondue restaurant Kaminstube, the Wintergarten, and three stylish bars complete this culinary masterpiece. Photos: Schloss Elmau
At
the
Highest Level:
At Schloss Elmau, living is elevated to a fine art. The architecture and interior design are characterized by a tension between complexity, diversity, and contradiction. Within the expansive yet intimate chambers of the two 5-star hotels, natural materials sourced from across the globe are combined with exacting attention to detail and understated elegance to fashion contemporary comfort. The pristine mountain panorama and the inherent texture of the materials are woven with subtle Asian influences and warm lighting into a cohesive, artful concept. The cosmopolitan ambience of these retreats—furnished in a style that is as individual as it is timelessly modern—is further enhanced by luxurious beds from Schramm, oiled oak parquet flooring, American cherry wood cabinets, spacious bathrooms featuring natural Jura stone, hand-woven carpets from Iran, and the finest linen from India.
Refined
Schloss Elmau offers a unique cultural program featuring first-class concerts, readings, and discussions. International artists, authors, and thinkers perform in an intimate atmosphere—a cultural gem in the heart of the Alps that inspires both mind and senses alike. In addition to music and literature, Schloss Elmau also offers inspiring retreats, yoga workshops, and philosophical discussions. The harmonious fusion of nature, culture, and spiritual depth renders the estate a singular sanctuary for meaningful encounters and inner reflection.
Wellness Sanctuary
: Guests in search of profound relaxation will be enthralled by Schloss Elmau, for no fewer than six spas invite wellness enthusiasts to unwind. The bathhouse, featuring an infinity rooftop pool, an infinity saltwater pool, and a cold-plunge pool, is reserved exclusively for adults. A Finnish sauna and a salt-water steam bath offer soothing heat, while the sun terrace beckons for contemplative repose. The bathhouse also encompasses the Lady Spa, featuring a Finnish sauna and an intimate relaxation chamber. In the Oriental Hamam—also reserved for adults—East meets West: Spanning 500 square meters, it features three domed rooms with navel stones, four treatment rooms, two steam baths, and an Oriental Tea Lounge. From June through September, the Natur Spa beckons all guests as a vast oasis of tranquility and energy right on the Ferchenbach. At the Family Spa, families and children can enjoy wellness in the lap pool and various themed saunas. Additionally, the bathhouse offers special treatments for children and teens. The Shantigiri Spa offers separate areas for adults and families—featuring an open-air infinity lap pool, a fitness area, and a large relaxation room with an open fireplace and views of the mountains.
Gourmet
World
: A stay at Schloss Elmau quickly turns into a culinary world tour, as guests are pampered in no fewer than 10 restaurants. The spectrum encompasses haute cuisine—rewarded with two Michelin stars and 18 Gault&Millau points—at IKIGAI (formerly Luce d’Oro), the Mediterranean refinement of the fine-dining establishment Summit, and Thai haute cuisine with 15 Gault&Millau points at Fidelio. Families will delight in Tutto Mondo and La Salle, while the two spa restaurants, Ganesha and Ananda, present light, nourishing fare; up at the Elmauer Alm, perched at 1,203 meters, rustic specialties take centre stage. The fondue restaurant Kaminstube, the Wintergarten, and three stylish bars complete this culinary masterpiece. Photos: Schloss Elmau
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