Brenners Park Hotel & Spa

The hotel traces its origins to 1872, when court tailor Anton Alois Brenner acquired what was then known as the “Hôtel Stéphanie-les-Bains.” With a keen sense of style and discretion, he transformed it into the preferred destination for aristocrats, artists, and statesmen. Under his son Camille Brenner, the hotel evolved into an oasis of European society. Personalities such as Otto von Bismarck, John Jacob Astor, Frank Sinatra, and Barack Obama shaped the hotel’s reputation. A historic moment: in 1962, Konrad Adenauer and Charles de Gaulle met here for preliminary talks on the Élysée Treaty—the Brenners became the “cradle of Europe.” A new chapter began with the Oetker family’s takeover in 1941. Under their leadership, the Brenners became the heart of today’s Oetker Collection—a synonym for timeless elegance and the highest level of hospitality.

Far more than a reopening

The Brenners returns as a stylish retreat steeped in classic grand hotel culture—at the gateway to the Black Forest, nestled between the verdant tranquility of Lichtentaler Allee and the fairy-tale charm of Baden-Baden. Architects, restorers, and master craftsmen uncovered hidden treasures: historic stucco ceilings, brick walls, and 19th-century beams. With meticulous care, these elements were transformed into 79 new rooms and suites that blend classic style with modern sophistication. Responsible for the interiors: Bergit Countess Douglas of MM Design Frankfurt. She created unique room concepts featuring fine fabrics from Colefax & Fowler, Pierre Frey, and De Gournay, custom-made furniture, and soft lighting—each room a one-of-a-kind space with character and soul. Architecturally, too, the balance between preservation and innovation was maintained. The historic facade remained untouched, while modern technology—from photovoltaic systems to smart energy and cooling systems to resource-efficient construction methods—points the way toward a sustainable future. 65,000 slate tiles and regional building materials from the Black Forest demonstrate the hotel’s connection to its home region. Even old fixtures have been upcycled—a symbol of the hotel’s new circular economy philosophy.

Relaxation Zones

At the heart of the complex lies the Brenners Spa & Wellbeing in Villa Stéphanie—an award-winning retreat that combines high-tech diagnostics with holistic relaxation. Under the direction of Katharina Stöckinger, medical expertise, customized therapies, and luxurious relaxation come together here. Detox programs, forest bathing, Jet-Peel technology, and Augustinus Bader treatments offer guests regeneration at the highest level—discreet, personalized, and sustainable.

The Finest Indulgence

The Brenners also sets new standards in culinary excellence. At the Wintergarten restaurant, Chef Stefan Naatz serves up exquisite delights with a view of the countryside through his light, seasonal, and regional haute cuisine (16 Gault&Millau points). At Fritz & Felix, Farid Fazel offers a creative and cosmopolitan take on international cuisine (15 points). And for those seeking something special, there’s the legendary Afternoon Tea by Pierre Hermé Paris, a modern homage to the Black Forest cake.

Photos: Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa