Blauer Salon

Arriving at Schlosshotel Kronberg (also known as the Kronberg Palace Hotel) is equivalent to time traveling back to an era of sophisticated elegance. The first thing I noticed after the tower and massive stone exterior is the sweeping lawn, dotted with exotic trees including two soaring Himalayan Cedars gifted by the last tsar of Russia to the castle’s former resident Empress Victoria, and planted by the tsar himself. Victoria also left behind a collection of paintings revealing her impressive artistic gift, with several haunting paintings of her daughter, Princess Margaret of Prussia. Built during the years 1889–1893 and designed by architect Ernst von Ihne, the royal architect to Victoria’s husband Emperor Frederick III and to Kaiser Wilhelm II, the soaring structure is bordered by stunning parkland containing an 18-hole golf course designed by Dwight D. Eisenhower during his seven-year residency here. The entire property is located in the Taunus region, a short drive north of Frankfurt.

Today, outstanding service is standard, with amenities including complimentary WiFi and stocked minibars, widescreen LCD televisions, Lavazza coffeemakers, shoeshine service, airport transfers and room service. The 5-star property has 62 rooms and suites boasting a fresh, elegant design by London designer Nina Campbell, who used jewel-toned fabrics and furnishings in public and private spaces. My deluxe suite had a flower motif, with romantic touches including overstuffed chairs, natural light, rich fabrics and touches of pink and gray. Best of all (beyond the wonderfully comfortable bed) were the views of the rolling parkland and the deep soaking tub in the enormous bathroom, where I was able to abandon every vestige of weariness from my international flight. All suite guests are treated to check-in in their suites rather than in the lobby — a nice touch for jet-lagged travelers.

Deluxe Suite

In the morning, I followed a narrow, twisting stone staircase from the hallway that led to the breakfast room — a staircase Victoria herself used for privacy, preferring to dine alone in the wide room. Other choices include the Castle Restaurant, the domain of chef Jörg Lawerenz; Jimmy’s Bar, an American-style bar done up in leathers and woods with a menu of fine whiskies; the Victoria Lounge, open in the warm summer months with terrace seating and a light menu; and the Fine Dining Room, where antiques and private butler service accompany the three-course business menu and 12-course amuse bouche menu. While the entire castle can be booked for private events, there are also eight event rooms and the unique Grotto of the Empress available for private dinners, team-building activities and receptions accommodating up to 100 guests. The grounds also contain a Beauty Cottage, where salon services, facials, massages and body treatments can be enjoyed — including Shiatsu therapies and anti-aging treatments with pure botanicals.