Luxury, history and culture in the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are located in southern Germany, bordering Austria, and include spectacular mountains such as the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. They are a popular destination for hiking, skiing and outdoor sports all year round. The region is characterized by alpine lakes, forests and picturesque villages with traditional Bavarian architecture. In addition to nature, they also offer culture and history, with castles such as Neuschwanstein and centuries-old monasteries.

Here we find Schloss Elmau, an icon of luxury hospitality immersed in the breathtaking scenery of the Bavarian Alps, a place where history, culture and well-being intertwine to offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Built in 1916 by theologian and philosopher Johannes Müller, the castle was born as an intellectual and spiritual refuge, a center for reflection and encounters between thinkers, artists and writers of the time. During the Second World War, the building was used for military purposes and later transformed into a sanatorium, only to rediscover its original vocation after the war. A devastating fire in 2005 made an ambitious restoration project necessary, which led Schloss Elmau to be reborn as one of the most exclusive hotels in Europe, combining historical charm with modern and sophisticated architecture. Part of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World group, the hotel is composed of two main buildings: the Retreat, designed to offer maximum privacy and tranquility with spacious and panoramic suites, and the Castle, which preserves the historical soul of the original structure, enriched by elegant and refined spaces. Every detail of the furnishings reflects meticulous attention to quality, with fine materials, refined fabrics and a design that combines tradition and innovation. The experience at Schloss Elmau is designed to satisfy every need, with a range of exclusive services ranging from wellness to culture, from food and wine to entertainment. The resort boasts six Spas, each with a unique atmosphere and designed to ensure maximum relaxation. The facilities include indoor and outdoor thermal pools, saunas with mountain views, Ayurvedic treatment areas and holistic wellness programs that combine traditional and innovative techniques. These Spas are not only places of relaxation, but true centers of physical and mental regeneration. The treatments are designed to respond to individual needs, combining natural therapies and modern wellness techniques. Guests can choose from a wide range of massages, facial and body treatments, and detox programs that exploit the properties of the region's natural products.

Gastronomy is one of the highlights of the resort. Schloss Elmau's restaurants are known for the high quality of their dishes, ranging from international gourmet cuisine to revisited Bavarian tradition. The variety of culinary offerings satisfies every type of palate, from the most refined dishes to the simplest but equally tasty dishes. The IKIGAI restaurant with its two Michelin stars is a must for lovers of haute cuisine, while the Fidelio restaurant offers a more informal setting with dishes that celebrate the tradition of the Alps. Finally, the Summit restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a spectacular view of the mountains. There is no shortage of buffet restaurants and vegetarian and vegan options, to ensure a wide and varied choice for all guests.

Another strength of Schloss Elmau is its cultural offering, which ranges from music to philosophy, through art and literature. The resort regularly hosts classical music concerts, jazz, and theater performances featuring internationally renowned artists. The concert hall, with its perfect acoustics, is one of the most popular spaces, where guests can enjoy performances in an intimate and engaging atmosphere. Philosophy and literature are also prominent, with events featuring thinkers, writers, and philosophers who discuss relevant issues in contemporary society. Each event is designed to stimulate thought and interaction among guests, creating an atmosphere of continuous learning.

The resort’s privileged location, surrounded by pristine forests and mountains, offers a wide range of outdoor activities in every season. In the winter, guests can enjoy alpine and cross-country skiing, while in the summer the area offers scenic hiking trails, cycling routes and crystal-clear lakes to relax in. For sports enthusiasts, there are also tennis courts, fully equipped gyms and yoga sessions with qualified instructors. Schloss Elmau is not only an icon of luxury and well-being, but also a major venue for international events. In 2015 and 2022, it hosted the G7 summit, welcoming leaders of the major world powers in an exclusive and private setting. These events have consolidated Schloss Elmau’s reputation as an ideal venue for high-level meetings, thanks to its security, discretion and impeccable hospitality. The G7 summit has seen the participation of heads of state such as the President of the United States, the Chancellor of Germany and other international leaders, who discussed global issues in a setting of extraordinary natural beauty. The impeccable organization and state-of-the-art facilities made it possible to hold crucial diplomatic meetings, demonstrating that Schloss Elmau is not only a destination for relaxation, but also a point of reference for international politics and diplomacy.

In addition to political summits, the resort regularly hosts corporate conferences, executive retreats and exclusive workshops, offering perfectly equipped spaces for meetings and presentations. The conference rooms are equipped with the latest technology, while the personalized service ensures that every event runs with maximum efficiency and sophistication. This makes Schloss Elmau a prime choice for companies and organizations looking for a place to combine work, culture and well-being in a unique setting.

For those seeking an even more exclusive experience, the resort offers personalized packages that include tailor-made stays, private dining experiences, access to cultural events, and specially designed spa treatments. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a personal wellness retreat, Schloss Elmau offers a level of personalization that sets it apart from any other resort.

Even the youngest audiences will find Schloss Elmau an ideal place to spend time in an inspiring and fun way. The resort has dedicated programs for children and teenagers, with activities ranging from music and art lessons to cooking classes, from guided nature hikes to a wonderful ice skating rink. This makes the castle a perfect destination for families who want to share a luxurious experience without sacrificing moments of growth and discovery for the little ones.

Every corner of the castle is designed to offer a complete experience, which stimulates the senses and nourishes the soul. The spacious rooms and suites, all equipped with elegant and modern furnishings, offer spectacular views of the surrounding Alps, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. The suites are furnished with fine fabrics, natural woods and details that combine Alpine tradition with modernity, ensuring a luxurious yet welcoming stay. Every element of the hotel, from the rooms to the hall, from the Spa to the restaurants, is designed to offer maximum comfort and to make every guest feel at home, while enjoying the privileges of a high-level experience.

The proximity to historical and cultural locations adds another element of charm to Schloss Elmau. Not far from the castle are cities such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, famous for its traditional architecture and shopping and entertainment opportunities, and the city of Munich, with its rich cultural heritage and famous tourist attractions, including museums, art galleries and theaters. This combination of unspoiled nature and access to cities rich in history and culture makes Schloss Elmau an ideal destination for those seeking a complete and varied experience. Schloss Elmau is much more than just a luxury resort. It is a place where history, culture, nature and wellness come together to offer an unparalleled experience. Whether it is a high-class meeting, a luxurious stay or a unique cultural experience, Schloss Elmau is an exclusive destination that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience it. A place where every detail is designed to ensure maximum comfort, where the art of hospitality combines with love for culture and respect for nature, creating a perfect balance between tradition and modernity, luxury and simplicity.

Author of the article Orchidea Colonna [email protected]