Bavaria, a land where fairy tales come to life amidst picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and a rich tapestry of cultural traditions. Nestled in the heart of southern Germany, Bavaria is alive with its storybook castles, lush alpine meadows, and vibrant cities that seamlessly blend modernity with a deep-rooted history. From the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, perched majestically against the Bavarian Alps, to the lively beer gardens of Munich, where the spirit of Oktoberfest lingers year-round, Bavaria offers a captivating journey into a world where time-honoured customs and contemporary delights coalesce. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels to stay at in the region.
Hotel Bachmair Weissach
Nestled in a pocket of Weissach village, Hotel Bachmair is a short walk from Lake Tegernsee and the mountain lift. A stream runs right through the property, whose history spans back to 1862. Owned and loved by local, Korbinian Kohler, the building is a fine example of the local Bavarian architecture and there remains an emphasis on retaining its original charm. But new tech has its place too — with in-room tablets enabling guests to order room service, organise activities or make requests at the touch of a button. Come here for a yoga retreat, to spend time in the spa with its Mizu Onsen, silent room and medi-tech treatments. Or to enjoy gastronomy at the Bavarian Gasthof zur Weissach, the Kreuther Fondue Stube and Mizu Sushi Bar.
Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt
This hotel’s 4 Elements Spa, developed by Elke Diefenbach-Althoff, is renowned as one of the best wellness retreats in the region. Inspired by the natural elements, it comprises a 28-metre indoor pool, an outdoor pool with Alpine views, multiple specialist saunas/infusion rooms and a gym. Guests can also spend time at the Althoff’s private beach, in cosy fire-lit lounges and catching up on some reading in the library. Bedrooms offer views of either the lake or mountains and echo the colour palette of nature. Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt also has a fine dining restaurant.
Schloss Elmau
A longtime haven for artists and writers, this castle (a National Monument) was erected in 1916. Since then it has hosted a G7 summit as well as 220 annual concerts and literary events. The food offer is Michelin-starred with French and Japanese dining courtesy of chef Christoph Rainer at Luce D’Oro and many other eateries dotted around the expansive site. Deep in the Elmau Valley, Schloss Elmau now includes a newer wing, accommodating many of the suites, a spa, a yoga pavilion and a library. There’s also a kids club and a huge bookshop.
Sofitel Hotel Munich Bayerpost
With more than four hundred spacious and colourful rooms to choose from, the Sofitel Hotel Munich Bayerpost provides guests with plenty of choice. This modern establishment is conveniently located close to the Oktoberfest’s Theresienwiese station as well as a whole host of historic attractions. Guests will want to make sure that they secure one of the 57 modern suites that are especially spacious and come with a wide range of modern conveniences. Taking the time to choose the perfect sleeping companion from the pillow menu is a real treat, while guests are also treated to huge picture windows and very comfortable living areas that will make them real right at home.
The Charles Hotel
Located within easy walking distance of the museum quarter, this charming hotel is perhaps best known for its iconic spa. Many guests also choose this establishment because of the very generous buffet-style breakfasts, which incorporate some of the best loved dishes and foods from around the world. Nature lovers are sure to enjoy the rooms that overlook the Old Botanical Gardens, while those who insist on nothing but the best will want to make sure that they secure the Monforte Presidential Suite. Those who are travelling with their entire entourage can secure the three connecting suites so that they take over the entire floor. The Charles Hotel is also renowned for its excellent business facilities, while the large indoor swimming pool is the perfect place to unwind in style.
Mandarin Oriental, Munich
As you would expect from a Mandarin Oriental, guests who check into this are treated to nothing but the best. Without a doubt, guests will want to make sure that they secure one of the 25 spacious suites. Each suite combines classic elegance with modern convenience, although the thing that elevates these accommodation options above the rest is their wrap around balconies. The corner suites are by far the most spacious and luxurious and guests will be treated to views out over the historic city centre while they catch up on a little work or simply sit and sip a cocktail or two while the sun sets over the city. The China Moon Rooftop Terrace is the perfect place to swim or dine in style as guests are treated to a range of excellent dishes and drinks as well as an unforgettable 360-degree view of Munich’s cityscape.
Four Seasons Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
Part of the legendary and very luxurious Four Seaons portfokio, this sumptuous hotel does not disappoint. This historic hotel originally opened its doors in 1858 and was once one of the city’s most modern establishments as it boasted gas lighting and hot water. Although times and expectations from guests have moved on significantly, this hotel is still committed to being at the top of its class. The hotel is located at the Maximilianstrasse and there are 67 large and very luxurious suites for guests to choose from. Unwinding on the huge balcony and taking in the views of the cityscape is a great way to unwind, while the indoor swimming pool is an elegant place to splash around.
Bayerischer Hof
While the building dates back to 1841, the décor and facilities of the Bayerischer Hof are both modern and very comfortable. Guests can take their pick from some of the most exclusive and elegant suites in the whole city and it is a good idea to book far in advance in order to secure the simply stunning Presidential, Rooftop Panorama. This huge suite feels more like a miniature palace and comes complete with frescoed ceilings, a butler service and a stunning and very large living area complete with an adjoining balcony.