What’s the best way to experience Germany when you want to see some of the European continent’s most amazing attractions but return each evening to a sublime and relaxing hotel? It’s to stay in one of the best resorts in Germany, which are located across the country, from close to the northern border with Denmark to the south near Austria.
Many of the best resorts in Germany are 5-star hotels that offer a proud and lengthy history dating back to the 19th century. You’ll find modern resorts with a very contemporary feel and elegant resorts that appear very “old world” as if you were in the midst of a grand holiday across Europe.
Let’s explore some of the most luxurious hotels, beautiful spas, and inspiring wellness resorts in Germany.
Best Resorts in Germany
1. Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden
Address: Hintereck 1, 83471 Berchtesgaden
The striking location of the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden is just part of its charm, and you’ll find yourself wowed by the panoramic views of the Alps that stretch out in every direction from the resort. The wellness resort is close to Salzburg and the Dokumentation Obersalzberg and is an excellent place from which to visit Lake Koenigssee.
You’ll definitely want to take a dip in the outdoor pool if only for the amazing view you’ll have as you swim. The luxury resort is far away from the hustle of nearby Berchtesgaden, and it’s the perfect setting for a quiet vacation with a wonderful ambiance at a world-class hotel.
The hotel will assist with helping you plan your activities during your stay, with friendly and attentive staff. The resort even offers young guests miniature toiletries and a dressing gown, so you can enjoy a trip to the Kempinski Hotel with the little ones along for the journey.
Pros:
- Super comfortable beds and spacious rooms
- Amazing mountain views from the rooms
Cons:
- There is a daily parking fee when you bring a car
See Related: Best Parks in Germany to Visit
2. Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
Address: Neuer Jungfernstieg 9-14, Hamburg City Center (New Town), 20354 Hamburg
The Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten is a gorgeous resort worthy of a remarkable European vacation in the 19th century. The luxury resort regularly welcomes guests from across the world for elegant and chic vacation stays. The Fairmont is everything you would desire and more in a 5-star resort property.
The staff will go above and beyond to accommodate you during your stay and will make special arrangements to make your trip more pleasant. For example, if you’re visiting various ski resorts in Europe, the staff can help you transport your equipment from one property to the next.
If you’re looking for a true old-world experience, you’ll definitely like what the Fairmont Hotel has to offer. Many luxury resorts throughout Europe offer amazingly modern and grand architecture, but the Fairmont is a throwback to another time when travel was truly special and rather rare for the average family.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable beds and pillows with turndown service
- Wonderful in-room amenities like shoe shine service and laundry
Cons:
- Not all rooms, especially on the first floor, have a full lake view
3. Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa
Address: Schillerstraße 4/6, 76530 Baden-Baden
Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa is located in the modern town of Baden-Baden and offers its guests a peaceful respite away from busy day-to-day life. The resort combines contemporary design elegance and traditional hospitality, honoring more than 150 years of history. Brenners is the flagship property for the Oetker Collection of luxury hotels.
Opt for one of the residences with a balcony that overlooks the park for a beautiful view during your stay. You’ll note the lovely attention to detail offered by the highly professional staff. No request is too difficult or unusual for the resort hotel.
If you visit the resort during the winter holidays, you’ll want to take a walk to the Christmas Market, which is a popular venue. You’ll love strolling through the town and returning at night to the beautiful historic luxury hotel. Stop by one of several hotel bars or lounges, including the Fritz & Felix Bar, Oleander Bar, Kaminhalle, the Cigar Lounge, or the Billiard Foyer for great drinks and atmosphere.
Pros:
- Some of the best spa treatments of any resort in Germany
- There is a Michelin-star restaurant on the property
Cons:
- Some rooms are located away from the main building and require flights of stairs
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany
4. Severin’s Resort & Spa
Address: Am Tipkenhoog 18, 25980 Keitum
Severin’s Resort & Spa offers its guests 62 suites and 22 apartments, as well as a large fitness area with a swimming pool and saunas. The spa is one of the most magnificent parts of this resort, but the rooms are quite large and comfortable, too, so all facets of your accommodation should feel suitably luxurious.
The restaurant receives high marks as well, which is fitting for a 5-star establishment. If you’re interested in maximizing your experience at one of the best resorts in Germany, consider staying in one of the spa suites. When you’re not luxuriating in your room or taking advantage of the spa’s amenities, take a walk around the amazing garden.
One of the most striking features of the spa is that its residences are housed within thatched-roof cottages, which are very reminiscent of a bygone era. However, the amenities inside the resort are modern and contemporary for ultimate comfort.
Pros:
- Offers five different themed saunas, as well as additional spa amenities
- Convenient location for active vacations involving hiking and cycling
Cons:
- The location requires some travel to reach and isn’t near a major airport
5. Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin
Address: Unter den Linden 77, Mitte, 10117 Berlin
The Hotel Adlon Kempinski has welcomed guests since 1907. The hotel is prominently located at the heart of Berlin, right near the landmark Brandenburg Gate. The luxury hotel is an elegant and stylish experience for any guest, but one of its brightest and most beautiful features is the 9,000-square-foot spa, which covers three levels and is described as a “wellness haven.”
The hotel became infamous many years ago when pop singer Michael Jackson dangled one of his children over a balcony while paparazzi took pictures. You can look up at the hotel from the street and see the balcony where that memorable incident took place.
If you want to explore Berlin one day and experience a lovely day of spa treatments the next, Hotel Adlon Kempinski is an ideal place to stay. Not only are you conveniently located for seeing all the famous tourist sites and prime retail spots in Berlin, but the hotel is always available to offer sublime spa visits in between your busy tourist travels.
Pros:
- One of the best resorts in Germany for visiting the sights of Berlin
- Beautiful property with lush amenities and superior rooms
Cons:
- The spa can get quite busy so it’s best to book dates in advance
See Related: Where to Stay in Berlin: Best Areas & Fun Neighborhoods
6. Hotel Atlantic Hamburg, Autograph Collection
Address: An der Alster 72-79, St. Georg, 20099 Hamburg
The Hotel Atlantic Hamburg is a legendary resort that offers its lucky visitors views of Lake Alster and luxurious furnishings throughout its suites and apartments. The resort first opened in 1909 as an exclusive hotel for people traveling in first class on luxury cruise liners. Today, it makes a fantastic base camp for any trip around Hamburg.
One of the best features of the resort is its variety of restaurants and eateries that range from casual to fine dining. There are three restaurants on the property, as well as opportunities to take afternoon tea or spend the evening with some cocktails.
If you’re looking for a destination to get married, you might choose the Hotel Atlantic Hamburg, which can handle events with up to 1,200 people. The resort even boasts its own private cinema, which you may want to visit when you’re not out touring Hamburg.
Pros:
- Extremely friendly and courteous staff with excellent service
- Recently renovated in 2020
Cons:
- Breakfast isn’t included in all rate options
7. AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa
Address: 21 Alpseestraße, 87645 Schwangau
The AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa is nestled within a beautiful forest and is located near the two famous German castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein. The hotel offers its guests a lakeside view of Lake Alpsee, as well as the mountains.
One of the interesting features of the hotel is that it was recently built over the foundations of three older hotels: the Alpenrose, the Jägerhaus, and the Schlosshotel Lisl. These hotels existed for more than 100 years before the new hotel was crafted from the old buildings.
You’ll find that the interiors of the resort are very modern, but the exterior of the property looks as though it was built a century ago. You’ll notice that every one of the 136 suites and the beautiful spa facility caters to every modern need while still evoking the feeling of a beautiful 19th-century luxury hotel.
Pros:
- Convenient location to famous German castles and tourist attractions
- Excellent selection of food for breakfast
Cons:
- No elevator means you might need to hike up a few flights of stairs
See Related: Best Places to Visit in Southern Germany
8. Schloss Elmau
Address: In Elmau 2, 82493 Krün
The Schloss Elmau is a unique luxury spa and retreat located in the Elmau Valley, which is nestled within the Bavarian Alps. The resort is actually a four-story castle and national monument that also serves as a resort with a spa retreat and beautifully appointed rooms.
The Elmau Valley is a gorgeous place, particularly in the winter, when the trees and hills are dusted with snow. In the springtime, you’ll enjoy the peaceful serenity of the beautiful rushing streams and the diverse wildlife that inhabit the area. It’s truly one of the most beautiful destinations in Germany.
Not only can you enjoy the peace and quiet of this mountain retreat, but you’ll also find opportunities to attend concerts and take part in special events. The resort offers three distinct luxury spas for adults, as well as a trio of spas meant for families.
Pros:
- An amazing place to stay for yoga retreats and relaxation
- Located in one of the most beautiful areas of the Alps
Cons:
- Activities like breakfast usually require reservations for a table
9. Sonnenalp Resort
Address: Sonnenalp 1, 87527 Ofterschwang
The Sonnenalp Resort in Ofterschwang is the ideal destination for those interested in winter sports, golf, and having fun in the Allgäu Alps. The same family has owned and operated the Sonnenalp since 1919 and maintains it as a 5-star property.
The resort is a great place to take children since the activities are geared toward all ages, and the kids will love the first-class service and luxury amenities. Not only does the hotel offer a wide range of room sizes, but there are also rooms designed for families, as well as a fabulous indoor pool.
The Sonnenalp is probably the best example of a first-class hotel that can cater to all travelers. From families traveling in the winter who want to have some fun on the ski slopes to couples traveling on their honeymoon who want a luxurious resort experience, the Sonnenalp delivers on every front.
Pros:
- Great resort for children with kid-friendly facilities and nearby winter sports
- Beautiful and historic hotel dating back to 1919 and was recently renovated
Cons:
- The property is large, and it may feel a little tricky to find your room when you arrive
See Related: Best Places to Visit in Northern Germany
10. Steigenberger Hotel Der Sonnenhof
Address: Hermann-Aust-Str. 11, 86825 Bad Wörishofen
The Steigenberger Hotel Der Sonnenhof is a gorgeous 5-star resort located within a lush alpine forest. Most of the rooms at the resort feature a private balcony or a terrace, as well as an incredible view. Whether you want to relax in a 5-star resort or engage in some wellness activities, the Steigenberger is a beautiful and luxurious hotel for your vacation.
You’ll find that the spa is extremely spacious and offers several whirlpools and a Turkish steam bath, as well as a fitness center. You’ll also get to enjoy a Finnish sauna and a steam bath at the wellness center. If you plan on spending most of your time exploring the region, you’ll love coming back to the resort to enjoy the wellness center.
If you have a few moments for exploration, definitely take a stroll through the beauty of the flower garden, especially if it’s spring and the flowers are in bloom. Try a stroll after you eat breakfast, which gets high marks from guest reviews.
Pros:
- Has one of the largest spas of any resort hotel in Germany
- Offers guests a fantastic outdoor pool
Cons:
- Children aren’t allowed in the spa area
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