Germany’s Bavarian Alps have been an insider secret to wellness cognoscenti since before the 18th Century. The region’s spectacular beauty, remoteness, pristine air, and abundance of sites for peace and rest have attracted countless searchers of detox, well before detox was even a word. The hotel’s Alpine Lifestyle mantra that features uncrowded outdoor spaces, abundant activities, and opportunities for indulgence and restful wellbeing are still near the top of everyone’s list, perhaps even more so now. Seekers of wellbeing or adventure will certainly find all these features in and around Berchtesgaden. Perhaps no place more than at the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden, which is organically nestled nearly 3300 feet up against the rise of imposing Mount Eckerbickl. The hotel opened in 2005 and has been part of the esteemed Kempinski Hotels chain since 2015.
Although the hotel’s remote feel is one to treasure, Salzburg is a mere 36 minutes away by car, Munich is an hour-and-a-half. The hotel’s helicopter pad makes your entrance onto the resort grounds a picturesque one, from your own perspective as well as that of viewers; the dramatic panorama of the alps makes for a very cinematic backdrop. Engaging, personable staff are garbed in regional attire, but don’t let the skirts and lederhosen throw you, these are highly groomed, internationally experienced staff. Far from being cute, the uniform is quite at home here and the staff operates as a synchronized team. Special requests and additional recommendations are capably and stylishly executed by one of the Kempinski brand’s iconic “Ladies in Red.” Given today’s focus on safety protocols, Kempinski has taken that concern retro with its re-interpretation of “white glove” service.
The hotel was constructed with intimate alpine appeal in harmony with the region. With only 138 rooms and suites, it’s a haven of tranquil seclusion so compelling now. Ensconced neatly amid the majestic natural splendor of the nearby Berchtesgaden National Park, you witness in the towering, pine-forested surrounds blanketed in snow in winter and charmingly change their dress as the seasons march along. Rooms and suites feature the stunning mountain views so part of this regional appeal. This is a retreat where something as simple as the rise of the morning mists off the ground will entrance you. The interior furnishings are modern, yet warm and inviting, a perfect combination of sleek and elemental with the use of brick, stone and silver birch to integrate with the mountain-scape outside. We loved the Maisonette Suite while we were there, which offers a stylish, yet cozy chalet-type ambience in its 1400 square feet over two floors. The burnished rustic fireplace is an added treat for romance and warmth on those brisk autumn or winter nights.
With such a rich Bavarian heritage so fully infused, it might be hard to wrap your head around the hotel’s claim to “culinary diversity,” but you will find it here. The Vinotheque is one venue, also offering a multitude of wines, fondues specialties in the colder months, and the coziness of throw-covered chairs. There are a few stube-style offerings in the Restaurant Johann Grill, which also hosts the hotel’s daily Alpine Breakfast. It’s a venue that calls to mind the pristine setting, but in a bright, contemporary setting, mountain-view, of course. You wouldn’t typically find a chilled melon soup
