Simply by setting foot in the lobby it instantly becomes clear that you are in a very special hotel. Indeed, Europäischer Hof Heidelberg defines luxury and is one of the last privately run hotels of its kind in Germany. A family-owned landmark, it is a warm and welcoming place, rich in history and the perfect starting point for those wishing to explore this famous city in the Rhine-Neckar valley.
Opened as Hôtel d’Europe in 1865, Heidelberg’s best-known hotel still stands for the ultimate in inimitable style. The hotel has a story to tell through all those who have stayed over the years – including famous names from the worlds of politics, business and culture. Each and every one of its 100 rooms, 15 suites and three apartments is elegant and unique, bringing together timeless design and individual, exquisite interiors.
Ernst-Friedrich and Sylvia von Kretschmann have held the reins here since 1965 and were joined by their daughter Caroline in 2012. The three meet for lunch at the Kurfürstenstube restaurant every day, where they discuss the hotel plan ahead and welcome the guests. They are most certainly hosts you can rub shoulders with and one of the many wonderful aspects of the hotel.
Such a personal approach, from what is now the third and fourth generations of the family, means guests become friends and the hotel’s team are part of the family – an atmosphere of warmth, coupled with the very highest standards, is felt throughout the entire hotel.
Europäischer Hof Heidelberg also sets incredibly high culinary standards. The Kurfürstenstube gourmet restaurant has a charming atmosphere, with wood-panelled walls and classical music rounding off an exquisite experience. In the warmer months, the attention is turned to the Summer Restaurant in the inner yard, an oasis far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Midday is a period of intense activity at the recently opened FRITZ restaurant, where a young and modern culinary team offers classic German dishes as well as internationally inspired specialities. In the evening, the English-style Europa Bar is a popular meeting point for a nightcap or a tasty aperitif.
In the Panorama Spa, which offers spectacular views of the city, Heidelberg Castle and the Odenwald forest, guests will find the ideal place to relax and unwind. For fitness, a couple of lengths of the pool or an exclusive treatment with Caribbean beauty products from Ligne St. Barth, this truly unique 5-star hotel offers the whole package. After all, as Winston Churchill, who stayed at Europäischer Hof Heidelberg in June 1956, once said: “Healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.”
Further information
www.europaeischerhof.com