The Schlosshotel Kronberg was once the private residence of a German empress (and the daughter of Queen Victoria). There is something very special about this place, a magnificent-looking English-style country mansion complete with a gothic exterior, sumptuous interiors and extraordinary historic resonance.
Situated on the edge of the Taunus mountains, it’s close to Frankfurt yet so far away its like a private oasis.
Grand, regal, and magnificent, members of most of Europe’s royal families – Tsar Nicholas II and Edward VII among them – have walked these corridors. The Empress Victoria Friedrich was an avid collector of artworks and antiques and filled her home with Flemish tapestries and gallery-worthy paintings and etchings. Most are still standing in the walls and corridors. This is a place of great distinction, sensitively brought into the 21st century by British designer Nina Campbell.
Staff are well informed and attentive. With so many treasures, from Titian to Reubens and Gainsborough on the walls, Limoges porcelain, gilded Venetian mirrors, antique bronzes, stain glassed windows and general splendour throughout it’s well worth taking the time to take in all the many treasures surrounding you. No need to visit a historic castle, you’re staying in one.
Expect to discover original paintings by Rubens, Titian and Gainsborough on the walls and treasures that include Limoges porcelain, gilded Venetian mirrors, antique bronzes and stain-glass windows.
The first floor, where the empress used to live, is known as the Belle Etage, rooms of varying sizes and styles. All have period-style furniture, warm colours, floral flourishes and ample beds.
Downstairs, there’s an impressive lobby with a fireplace and comfortable sofas, a library and ornate public rooms in Renaissance and Classicist styles, well suited to celebratory occasions.
There is a ‘beauty cottage’ for massage and facial treatments.
The fare is gourmet – think oysters, crabs, goose liver and octopus and cauliflower mousse and a fillet of beef that still makes my mouth water. The extensive wine list includes many from the vineyards owned by the Prince von Hessen.
Tea or coffee can be taken on the Victoria Lounge terrace, pre-dinner cocktails in the lively Jimmy’s Bar. There’s an extensive breakfast buffet, best savoured with a glass of sekt (sparkling wine)
