The Historic Hotels of Europe showcase a range of stunning properties, each with a unique story to tell. Our collection has not only witnessed historical events but has also hosted kings, queens, and noble families over the years.
From medieval castle villages to charming chalet-style hotels in Switzerland, Historic Hotels of Europe guests today can enjoy the same elegance and comfort that once welcomed royalty. Staying in these historic hotels means you truly experience hospitality fit for a king (or queen!). Guests can expect top-notch service, exquisite dining, and beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re walking through a hall that once saw grand balls or relaxing in a room with a rich history, every moment promises a touch of the regal.
Read on to explore some of Europe’s hotels, each with its unique link to the aristocracy. Join us as we step into a world of opulence and history, where you can truly live like a royal.
Hotel Schwarzer Bock, Ansbach, Germany
Nestled in the charming town of Ansbach, the Hotel Schwarzer Bock has been a beloved retreat for numerous aristocrats over the years. Among its most distinguished guests were Prince Regent Luitpold of Bavaria and the granddaughter of Kaiser Wilhelm II from the Hohenzollern lineage. The hotel has also welcomed regional nobility from Bavaria, Franconia, Westphalia, and beyond, who come for hunting trips, music festivals, and the hotel’s welcoming atmosphere. Notable guests have included Count von Lambsdorff, Prince of Oettingen-Wallerstein, Hereditary Prince of Schönborn, and many others.
The phrase ‘if walls could talk’ is apt here and the Schwarzer Bock is rich with stories, like the count who feared he would starve until he arrived at the hotel, or the nobleman who had special wine brought in for his guests. There was even one guest who insisted on having a bicycle delivered. These charming anecdotes are best enjoyed on-site, perhaps over a glass of wine in the cosy hotel lounge.
Guests can stay and explore the area, visiting nearby attractions like Lichtenau Fortress and Herrieder Tor. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are excellent golf courses such as Golfclub Lichtenau-Weickershof and Golfclub Ansbach. The Schwarzer Bock is also a fantastic venue for hosting special occasions, providing a picturesque and historic backdrop for memorable events.
Additionally, the hotel’s restaurant offers an excellent dining experience, with a menu that blends traditional flavours with modern culinary techniques. At the Schwarzer Bock, you’ll experience historical charm and a genuine warmth that makes every guest feel like part of the family.
Chesa Grischuna, Klosters, Switzerland
Nestled in the charming Swiss mountain village of Klosters, Chesa Grischuna offers an enchanting blend of understated luxury and alpine beauty. This quaint farmer’s village, located at the foot of the Parsenn ski area, provides a serene retreat favoured by royalty. The hotel’s guestbook boasts names from members of the British Royal family to Hollywood movie starlets like Greta Garbo.
Over the past number of years, Klosters gained prominence as a royal favourite, particularly among British royals like Prince Charles and Princess Diana, who found solace in its tranquil and picturesque setting. The hotel’s intimate atmosphere, with just 12 beautifully appointed rooms, ensures an exclusive experience that has drawn nobility seeking privacy and comfort.
Dining at Chesa Grischuna is a regal experience in itself. The hotel’s restaurant, recognised by Gault-Millau, offers traditional Swiss cuisine crafted with the finest local ingredients, all served in an ambience that reflects the hotel’s rich heritage.
Beyond the luxurious interiors, guests can explore the picturesque surroundings of Klosters. The village is perfect for those who love outdoor activities, offering skiing in the renowned Parsenn area and hiking through breathtaking alpine landscapes. Klosters’ peaceful charm and friendly locals provide a perfect backdrop for a relaxing escape.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a skiing adventure, or simply a place to unwind, Chesa Grischuna is the ultimate spot. The combination of its royal history, beautiful setting, and impeccable service ensures that every stay is memorable.
Schloss Wartegg, Lake Constance, Switzerland
Perched gracefully on the banks of Lake Constance, Schloss Wartegg is steeped in history and royal connections that add a unique charm to this beautiful Swiss retreat. Built in 1557, the castle has served as a sanctuary for many distinguished guests over the centuries. During the French Revolution in 1789, Marquis de Bombelles, a diplomat for the French king, and his wife found refuge within its walls.
In 1860, the castle was purchased by Louise von Bourbon-Parma, Duchess and Regent of Parma, who expanded the grounds with the addition of an English landscape garden. Her granddaughter, Zita, who became the last Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary, also spent time at Schloss Wartegg following the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1919.
Today, the hotel features 25 exquisitely restored rooms that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can enjoy the serene beauty of the castle’s English gardens, which house a variety of rare plants providing a peaceful retreat. For those seeking rejuvenation, the hotel’s spa features a historic ‘Turquoise Bath’ (dating back to 1928) and soothing saunas.
Whether you are exploring the cultural sites nearby, such as the UNESCO-listed Saint Gallen Abbey, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Constance, Schloss Wartegg promises a stay that is both luxurious and steeped in history and an atmosphere that make every guest feel like a part of the castle’s storied past.
Discover the charm, history, and regal hospitality that make these destinations so special. Embrace the chance to create your own royal affair in these magnificent settings.