Quote: Wow, what can I say, this is simply one of the better hotels in Europe. I have stayed at Claridge's and the Dorchester in London, The Beau Rivage and The Florhoff in Switzerland, and I can safely say that this hotel is on par with those powerhouses for half the price. This hotel was an old Schloss (mansion) and its large airy rooms and massively wide hallways make you feel as if you are staying on someone's estate not a hotel. Let's face it, Aachen is not on everyone's to-do list in Europe, but if you are traveling through, you must stay here as it is a superb and slightly different hotel experience..

The rooms are large, airy, and modern with comfy beds and all the wi-fi internet access you need. My only small complaint was that the TV was in a strange position (not in front of bed but off to one side.) They are elegantly decorated in a modern style and are not overdecorated like so many rooms today. My room looked out onto Monheimstrasse which is a big tree-lined blvd. The room had masses of light and immense closet space.

The bathrooms were beautiful, full marble bathrooms, with deep tubs, the usual awkward shower setup with that small glass door that basically keeps no water off the floor. Generous and high quality soaps, shampoos, robes, good towels and immaculately clean!

The service was understated but impeccable, classic reserved European service, never in your face, but always there when you need them.

FOOD: In truth, I did not eat at the main restaurant, except for a very good breakfast, but I did go into the Elephant Bar, which is wonderful! A grand old room with a big bar and perfectly international mix of 'elegant pubgrub'. Great beer as well.

I think the hidden gem of this hotel however is the very underpublicized spa. A huge spa downstairs featuring a beautiful infinity pool, they also have two steam rooms, and countless spa treatments, a workout space, and an outdoor cloister for cooling off after a steam. This spa was first class and like evertyhing else, very clean.

Points of interest include: 10-15 minute walk to Charlemagne's Dom (Cathedral) which is a must-see if in Aachen, this small cathedral had countless Emperors through it and carries Charlemagne's remains. It dates to about 800 A.D. The city's Town Hall is minutes from the Cathedral and is in one of those town squares that you only see in Europe. Also, if you are a gambler, there is a neat little casino next door to the hotel with relatively inexpensive blackjack tables.


From journals Business Trip in Aachen