Blauer Salon
Arriving at Schlosshotel Kronberg, often referred to as the Kronberg Palace Hotel, feels like stepping back into an age of refined elegance. The hotel’s tower and impressive stone façade are set behind a sweeping lawn dotted with exotic trees, including two Himalayan cedars planted by the last tsar of Russia as a gift to Empress Victoria, the castle’s former resident. Empress Victoria also left a legacy of artwork, including poignant portraits of her daughter, Princess Margaret of Prussia. Constructed between 1889 and 1893 and designed by architect Ernst von Ihne—architect to Emperor Frederick III and Kaiser Wilhelm II—the mansion sits amid expansive parkland and an 18-hole golf course. The course was designed by Dwight D. Eisenhower during his seven-year stay in the area. The property is located in the Taunus region, a short drive north of Frankfurt.
Service at this five-star hotel is attentive and modern, while respecting the historic atmosphere. Guests enjoy complimentary WiFi, stocked minibars, widescreen LCD televisions, Lavazza coffeemakers, shoeshine service, airport transfers and room service. The hotel has 62 rooms and suites updated with a fresh, elegant language by London designer Nina Campbell, who introduced jewel-toned fabrics and refined furnishings throughout public areas and private rooms. My deluxe suite featured a floral motif and romantic details—plush armchairs, abundant natural light, rich fabrics and tasteful accents in pink and gray. The suite offered sweeping views of the parkland and an oversized bathroom with a deep soaking tub, ideal for recovering after a long flight. Suite guests are welcomed with in-suite check-in, a thoughtful convenience for weary travelers.
Deluxe Suite
Mornings at Schlosshotel Kronberg are charming and calm. I discovered a narrow, winding stone staircase that leads from a quiet hallway to the breakfast room—a route Empress Victoria herself used when she preferred to dine privately. Dining options extend beyond breakfast: the Castle Restaurant showcases the cuisine of chef Jörg Lawerenz; Jimmy’s Bar offers an American-style atmosphere with leather and wood interiors and a selection of fine whiskies; the Victoria Lounge opens in warm months with terrace seating and a light menu; and the Fine Dining Room delivers an intimate experience with antiques, dedicated butler service and menus ranging from a three-course business selection to an elaborate 12-course amuse-bouche tasting.
The castle can be reserved entirely for private events, and the hotel also offers eight dedicated event rooms plus the Grotto of the Empress for intimate dinners, receptions and team-building activities for groups up to 100. For relaxation and beauty treatments, the grounds include a Beauty Cottage providing salon services, facials, massages and body therapies. Treatments span Shiatsu and other therapeutic massages as well as anti-aging and botanical-based options, all designed to complement a restorative stay at this historic property.