Imagine yourself on a cabana-like lounger, a cool breeze whispering across the water, while the sun bathes the landscape in a golden glow. This idyllic scene isn’t a distant European beach, but rather the heart of the Austrian Alps, at the “lake club” of Rosewood Schloss Fuschl. This newly reopened hotel, perched on the edge of a mesmerizing turquoise lake, offers a captivating escape unlike any other.
The majestic vistas are unlike anything you’ve seen. The dramatic forested slopes rise up from the tranquil lake, with the charming village of Fuschl at the far end and snow-capped peaks reaching for the sky. While Rosewood Schloss Fuschl may feel new, its history dates back centuries. Originally built as a hunting lodge for the powerful Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg in the 15th century, the property has witnessed countless chapters, ultimately transforming into a hotel in 1947. The Schörghuber family, the current stewards, partnered with Rosewood to embark on a two-year refurbishment, breathing new life into this historic gem.
The interiors are a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and design. The airy lobby, adorned with pine parquet floors, deer horns, and wildflowers, exudes a captivating charm. A portrait of Empress Sisi adds a touch of royal history, reminding visitors of the classic film shot here in the 1950s.
The public areas, housed within the oldest building overlooking the lake, are particularly captivating. The Seeterrasee restaurant, with its panoramic conservatory-style windows and expansive terrace, is a hub of activity, especially during the evenings as the chatter of diners fills the air. Tucked away down winding corridors, the Schloss Bar, a haven of artistic charm, boasts murals of neighboring forests by local artist Marie Hartig. Her hand-painted minibar chests in every room, featuring delicately rendered Alpine landscapes, enhance the unique ambiance.
The hotel’s 98 guest rooms and suites are equally stylish, showcasing soft, pastel-hued palettes inspired by the changing seasons. The rooms, with their calming décor and breathtaking lake views, invite you to unwind and embrace the tranquility of your surroundings.
The luxurious touches extend beyond the rooms. A sunrise cruise across the lake in one of the hotel’s antique boats, complete with a flask of coffee, offers an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s dedicated fishery, holding the sole license to fish on the Fuschl lake, provides rustic picnics of smoked trout, a taste of local tradition.
Yet, Schloss Fuschl caters to every palate. The Seeterrasee restaurant features an “Alpine to the sea” menu, where you can savor a classic Wiener schnitzel while gazing at the lake. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Schloss, offers an inventive tasting menu highlighting the flavors of the Salzkammergut region, served in a grand dining room with panoramic lake views.
But it’s more than just the luxurious amenities that make Schloss Fuschl special. It’s the pervasive sense of peace that envelops you. As you arrive, the stress of your journey melts away, replaced by a sense of calm. Whether it’s the fresh Alpine air, the stylish décor, or the sheer beauty of the setting, you’ll find yourself sinking into a state of utter relaxation.
The Asaya spa, spread across multiple floors, is a haven of wellness. With its indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, steam room, and fully equipped gym, it offers a sanctuary for both body and mind. The skilled therapists deliver treatments that rejuvenate and restore, leaving you feeling revitalized.
Schloss Fuschl truly offers everything you could ever want, from a charming museum dedicated to Empress Sisi to a shop selling local wines, chocolate, and unique souvenirs. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Austrian Alps, leaving the hustle and bustle of the world behind. This is more than just a hotel; it’s a sanctuary, a place where you can truly escape and find yourself.
