Bavarian cultural estate
Guests in jewel-toned bathrobes wander between crackling library fireplaces and the 300-seat concert hall for evening chamber music.
“Originally built in 1916, the 130-room retreat was given a much-needed multi-million Euro makeover…”
What it’s good at
Exceptional
Dedicated sports concierges, personal wellness guides, and multi-course dining at two-Michelin-starred IKIGAI.
What they say
Three Michelin Keys
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler, Wallpaper* and AFAR.
it’s a contemporary luxury hotel of a rather more modern vintage, a mix of old-world Bavaria and updated high-end luxury.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Trails wind directly from the secluded valley into the Wetterstein Alps, leading past mountain streams toward crystal-clear alpine lakes.
The rooms
Suites in The Retreat frame the Wetterstein peaks through floor-to-ceiling glass, finished with hardwood floors and Indonesian furnishings.
The pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Heated outdoor lap pools and an infinity pool steam quietly beneath the snow-dusted Wetterstein peaks.
The spa
Soak slowly.
Red loungers line the vaulted hamam colonnade, and relaxation lounges open around suspended fireplaces beside tall glass doors.
The sauna and gym
Panoramic timber saunas look out over snowy alpine peaks, alongside treadmills and exercise bikes facing the forest.
At the table
Dining spaces range from sunlit glass pavilions and gold-leaf booths to fireside cocktails at the jazz bar.
A stay here is equal parts refined and lively, restful and re-energizing, with a cornucopia of pursuits—wild swimming, e-mountain bike tours…
How it began

Theologian Johannes Müller founded the sanctuary in 1916 as a cultural haven, later rebuilt by his grandson Dietmar Müller-Elmau.
“Impeccably furnished in shades of soft red, cream, and gold, the 162 rooms are elegant yet understated...”
Good to know
Stay here
Schloss Elmau
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.