The Free State of Bavaria is a place that keeps its clichéd promises, right from the fertile Danube Plain to the cloud-shredding Alps. Think a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, alluring villages, gorgeous landscapes, straight-out-of-fairytales castles, flower-filled meadows, lush alpine meadows, and medieval walled towns. Warped and molded by time, Bavaria offers a captivating glimpse into what could have been, but with contemporary delights. The best luxury hotels in Bavaria sit across centuries-old, converted castles and clean-lined, contemporary structures. However, they all have a few things in common: they boast the zenith in creature comforts and amenities, and seamlessly blend deep-rooted history and modernity in the most interesting ways possible.
The region is perhaps most well-known for being the home of Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the world’s largest castles and one of Europe’s most famous castles. However, it’s also home to some of the best small German towns worth visiting, as well as larger cities like Munich, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Regensburg, among others. So, what are you waiting for? Live in luxury at these indulgent stays all over Bavaria.
Table of contents
- Wellness & Sporthotel Jagdhof, Röhrnbach
- Ortner’s Resort, Bad Füssing
- HOTEL & SPA Goldene Rose, Dinkelsbühl
- Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa, Schwangau
- Sonnenalp Resort, Ofterschwang
- Mandarin Oriental, Munich
- Schloss Elmau, Krün
- Rosewood Munich
- Spa & Resort Bachmair Weißach, Rottach-Egern, Lake Tegernsee
- Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt, Rottach-Egern
- Lanserhof Tegernsee
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Bavaria, Germany?
- Which is the most luxurious castle hotel in Bavaria?
- Which is the most luxurious lake hotel in Bavaria?
- Which is the most luxurious boutique stay in Bavaria?
Wellness & Sporthotel Jagdhof, Röhrnbach
11
We begin with the aptly named Wellness- & Sporthotel Jagdhof in Röhrnbach in Lower Bavaria. This hotel summed up the Bavarian good life in its name alone; the setting, the amenities, and the luxury were another story altogether. This classic holiday resort sits just south of the Bavarian Forest, where the Austrian, Czech, and German borders converge.
We had a dizzying array of options in terms of activities to do, as well as amenities, and ones to recover from them later on. Besides a bevy of outdoor activities, there was no judgment for relaxing here. After all, there was nothing that could compare with enjoying a swim in the seasonal outdoor pool, followed by sipping drinks on the daybeds beside it. What’s more, the hotel also had concierge services, a 24-hour front desk, a steam room and a hot tub, a mini market, in-room massage services, and two restaurants and bars.
Since this is a classic holiday resort, the rooms and suites had the quintessential cozy factor; think plush textiles, natural wood, and warm earth tones and hues. Luxurious bathrooms, floral accents, and spacious balconies with sweeping views of the forests and the Bavarian Alps were the cherries on top.
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Ortner’s Resort, Bad Füssing
10
Best wellness hotel. You can’t do wellness better than Ortner’s Resort in Bad Füssing, which is the region’s only five-star hotel and one of the best 5 star hotels in Bavaria. It’s the perfect place to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Blending southern European charm with Bavarian coziness in a contemporary, all-encompassing concept. This was the ideal place for us for a relaxing getaway. We loved the cozy yet luxurious and spacious rooms and suites here, which featured cloud-like beds, free Wi-Fi, luxurious bathrooms with bespoke bath products, and balconies with amazing views.
After all, the setting is one of renewal, with the highlight being the award-winning spa world, which has as many as six outdoor and indoor pools. However, the kicker is that they’re all filled with healing thermal water from the hotel’s own spring! Additionally, the exclusive detox programs and signature treatments. Even the cuisines at the three restaurants and bars are all about holistic well-being, but paired with delicious drinks and in a stylish atmosphere. Plus, there’s also a sports center with ice skating, squash, and tennis courts
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HOTEL & SPA Goldene Rose, Dinkelsbühl
9
In a charming half-timbered structure on a cobblestoned street in Dinkelsbühl, Central Franconia, Bavaria, sits the historic 1891-built HOTEL & SPA Goldene Rose. This hotel boasts an eminent roster of guests, including Queen Victoria of England, who stayed in the now sleek and understated Queen Vicky Suite. However, the room, along with the rest of the hotel, has been through a wave of gorgeous modernization. The effort blended the town’s medieval and historic vibe with modern style while retaining much of the property’s best original features. Think antique mirrors, a romantic staircase, and the quaint, half-timbered façade.
We had the choice of many open-layout rooms and suites, all of which had subdued color palettes, parquet floors, dark wood beams, and luxurious bathrooms. In fact, some suites were even bi-level ones, with living areas and lofted sleeping areas. Plus, while all rooms featured large, intricate tapestries, the bathrooms were almost futuristic.
Downstairs, we loved the interesting old-world details, like the antique ballroom-turned-modern cinema and the fireplace-warmed bar. However, the best feature was the attic-level infinity pool, with stunning views. Three cozy restaurants and bars rounded up the amenities here.
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Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa, Schwangau
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Closest to Neuschwanstein Castle. The Bavarian masterpiece, Neuschwanstein Castle, is one of the world’s dreamiest fairytale castles. At the foot of this castle sits the stunning Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa. While most hotels in the area see single-night reservations, guests at the Ameron — including us — stay for a couple of days more, soaking in the beauty of the resort.
The four-star hotel sits across a collection of historic and new structures, some of which are more than a century old. What’s more, there’s a massive spa and an extensive wellness program, as well as tons of opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, what’s unique is that all historic structures have their own dining concepts, along with room service. We especially loved the all-day restaurant with huge conservatory windows and three terraces with castle views.
All rooms and suites, as a result, are a gorgeous blend of modernist design elements and period architectural elements. So, while some in the historic structures are more traditional, those in the newer ones are more contemporary. However, they’re all decked out with creature comforts of the highest order.
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Sonnenalp Resort, Ofterschwang
7
No country does mountain resorts quite like Germany, and the expansive Sonnenalp Resort in Ofterschwang in Bavaria’s Allgäu region is no exception. Exemplary of the form and yet a wonderfully intimate, family-run resort, it’s transformed over the course of 100 years into the 4-season escape that it is today.
The resort combines contemporary luxury and Alpine tranquility, with a focus on wellness. Firstly, the restaurants include everything from casual to fine-dining options, and everything in between, all with stunning views. When it comes to leisure, nothing beats the 20,000-sq-meter Sonnenalp Wellness World. It has not only a massive treatment menu, ten thermal pools, and six spa tubs, but it also has tennis, golf, and just about every sport, including winter sports, we could think of. During winters, there’s also the Sonnenalp Ski School, with the well-groomed slopes of Ofterschwang Ski Resort next door. Did we mention the amazing après-ski with a cracking fire and hot cocoa? Yes!
We had the choice of everything from singles to chalets in terms of accommodations. However, all these Alpine-inspired rooms came with all creature comforts: flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, modern bathrooms, mountain views, and even fireplaces and balconies.
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Mandarin Oriental, Munich
6
We expect nothing but the best from a Mandarin Oriental outpost, and the Mandarin Oriental Munich is no exception. The Bavarian outpost of the luxurious, award-winning Oriental hotel brand sits in a 19th-century neo-Renaissance stucco structure in one of the most central neighborhoods of the city. What could be better?
We had the choice of a number of rooms, but we’d highly recommend the 25 spacious suites, which boast wraparound balconies. The best of all are the corner suites, where guests are treated to spectacular views of the historic city center. Brown, gold, and cream hues, luxurious bathrooms, and a slew of mod-cons make them perfectly indulgent nests.
We were impressed right off the bat with the inlaid Italian and French marble floors in the lobby, complete with original Biedermeier furnishings. Two restaurants serve delicious cuisines, especially the rooftop one, which also allowed us to enjoy unforgettable 360-degree views of the cityscape.
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Schloss Elmau, Krün
5
Best castle luxury. Schloss Elmau holds a ton of titles; not only is it one of Bavaria, Germany’s best hotels, but it’s also one of the best hotels in the Bavarian Alps. And if that wasn’t enough, it also happens to be one of Bavaria, Germany’s best castle hotels!

This four-storied castle-cum-cultural retreat is also a national monument and has a restorative and truly low-key vibe, despite having an eminent roster of former guests. On the other side of a magnificent exterior, this contemporary luxury schloss beautifully blended old-world and modern Bavarian touches. We had the choice of two sets of themed digs, the Hideaway (100 rooms) and the Retreat (47 rooms). While the Hideaway had intimate yet grander rooms, we fell in love with the sun-kissed hilltop vibe at The Retreat, with panoramic views of the Alps. Nevertheless, rooms in both wings had stunning old-world touches and a slew of creature comforts.
Even the amenities here went above and beyond, especially the wellness space with an adults-only luxury spa, a hammam, a family spa, and a tranquil, never-before-seen nature one. Moreover, we could also choose from two pools, a hot saltwater one and a heated rooftop pool. Finally, there were as many as 5 terraces, bars, lounges, and living rooms, and 11 restaurants at the hotel, including a Michelin-starred one.
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Rosewood Munich
4
Rosewood Munich is the very first venture in Germany for the venerable luxury hospitality brand. This modern, luxurious hotel is spread across two historic structures: the aristocratic Palais Neuhaus-Preysing and the former Bavarian State Bank headquarters. On the inside, it’s a unique and eye-pleasing fusion of historic and contemporary elements.
We had the choice of 132 rooms and suites, all decked out in a timeless, classic-contemporary style and outfitted with state-of-the-art mod-cons and luxuries. Think Italian linens, minibars, expansive powder rooms, soaring ceilings, underfloor heating, and sophisticated bathrooms with hard-to-resist soaking tubs and elegant brass and smoky-white marble fixtures.
Downstairs, it was all about bespoke service and exceptional amenities, including the first Asaya Spa in Germany. Due to its position as a cultural hub, the hotel also had two restaurants and bars serving delicious Bavarian cuisine and vibrant cocktails.
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Spa & Resort Bachmair Weißach, Rottach-Egern, Lake Tegernsee
3
The outstanding Spa & Resort Bachmair Weißach dates back to 1862 and is one of the Bavarian Alps’ premier spa hotels. Sitting pretty in the Weissach village, a 10-minute walk from Lake Tegernsee, the resort has its very own stream flowing through its nature spa.
Just like any other luxurious and sprawling resort in the Alps, the Bachmair has a laundry list of amenities. Aside from comprehensive kids’ programmes, it also organizes tours, hikes, Vespa rides, and bike rides, among others. Not only was the service attentive and relaxed, but the hotel also had an amazing fitness center and swimming pool. However, what we loved the most was the spa, which had its very own stream! Rounding up the amenities were the six restaurants on the property, which served every cuisine from local Bavarian to even Italian and Asian. Oh, and did we mention that there was even a high tea and cocktail bar?
We had the choice of nearly 150 rooms and suites, all of which featured Samsung SuitePads from which we could order room service at the click of a button. If that wasn’t enough, the SuitePads could even organize spa/wellness activities, bike rentals, and other tours. If that wasn’t enough, all of them radiated a Bavarian vibe with mod-cons like modern bathrooms, concealed TVs, and minibars.
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Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt, Rottach-Egern
2
Best lakeside luxury. The Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt does luxury as we’ve never seen before, and few other places in the world can do the same. With a fantastic Lake Tegernsee location, high-class rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred chef at the helm of the signature restaurant, this is one of the most premier stays in the Bavarian Alps. Not only that, but we were just an hour away from Munich and right at the base of one of Germany’s best Alpine regions.
“Opulence in the heart of the Bavarian Alps was something we’d only imagined, but it became a reality at the Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt resort.”
WOW Travel
We loved the air of opulence at the resort, which wasn’t overdone but was just right. In fact, the room service was one of the best we’ve ever seen, and even the concierge was impressive, being able to provide, arrange, and whip up practically every ticket, activity, and reservation under the Bavarian sun. Since this is the Bavarian Alps, don’t miss out on the horse carriage tours of Rottach-Egern! In terms of the amenities, the hotel has a gorgeous bunch of indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, four restaurants (including a Michelin-starred one), and an excellent spa with six different saunas, relaxation areas, and even a library!
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Lanserhof Tegernsee
1
Imagine staying at a medical spa on the shores of Lake Tegernsee in the heart of Bavaria. Behold Lanserhof Tegernsee, an unexpectedly stylish and yet monastic medical facility where you can stay luxuriatingly in the Bavarian Alps. It’s just an hour from Munich, but the setting is spectacular: it overlooks a golf course, forests, and undulating pastures, and gorgeous villages. We couldn’t ask for a more tranquil setting.
One of Europe’s most comprehensive and modern medical facilities, Lanserhof has a coterie of experts on hand – from personal trainers and dieticians to doctors – allowing them to take a truly holistic approach to guests’ wellness. We felt we were in caring hands all the time. What’s more, we had a bevy of medical programmes to choose from, from the classic and global beauty ones to energy balance and weight, and sports ones. Despite there being rules and restrictions on what and how to eat (sugar, alcohol, and caffeine are banned here), the food is locally sourced, organic, and extremely tasty.
Even the smallest of the 70 rooms and suites was generously sized at 50 sq. meters, allowing us to have ample space. What’s more, they all boasted floor-to-ceiling windows and even private terraces, which afforded fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. Comfy beds, free Wi-Fi, TV sets, and sleek bathrooms finished the place.
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Our Verdict!
While we loved all the luxurious stays in Bavaria, here’s a specialized list that will help you choose where to stay.
- Best wellness hotel: Ortner’s Resort, Bad Füssing
- Closest to Neuschwanstein Castle: Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa, Schwangau
- Best castle luxury: Schloss Elmau, Krün
- Best lakeside luxury: Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt, Rottach-Egern
Where to Stay in Bavaria, Germany?
Bavaria is home to major cities, lovely towns, and tiny villages that look like they’re straight out of fairytales. So, you need to decide where to stay in Bavaria to decide what you want out of your German holiday.
Firstly, there’s Rottach-Egern on the shores of Lake Tegernsee in the alluring Upper Bavaria. This stunning lakefront village has boutiques, churches, bars and restaurants, popular winter activities, and the Alps in the background. Secondly, there’s Regensburg, northeast of Munich, on the Danube River, which has a well-preserved medieval core and is ideal for history lovers.
Thirdly, there’s the town that felt straight out of a Brothers Grimm fairytale, Dinkelbühel. It had paved streets, vibrant homes, and a medieval wall circling it. Then there’s one of Southern Bavaria’s finest cities, Augsburg, which is home to one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets. Also, who can forget Munich, the Bavarian capital and famously home to Oktoberfest, one of the world’s best festivals?
If you’re looking for romance, the pastel-hued Füssen and Bamberg in Upper Franconia are perfect. In fact, the former is the town closest to the iconic and magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle. Finally, there’s the well-preserved, vibrant, and Instagrammable medieval Old Town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which looks like a Christmas postcard during the winter.
Which is the most luxurious castle hotel in Bavaria?
Sitting at the foot of the Neuschwanstein Castle, the Ameron Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa is popular as a modern luxurious castle hotel.
Which is the most luxurious lake hotel in Bavaria?
Althoff Seehotel Überfahrt, which sits directly on the shores of the Bavarian Alpine Lake Tegernsee, is one of the region’s most luxurious stays.
Which is the most luxurious boutique stay in Bavaria?
That would be the Hotel Das Rübezahl at the foot of the Allgäu Alps in Schwangau, with spectacular views of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle.
