Travelling to the Sound of Music

Bonjour from Le Marais,

Fancy a trip to Austria, one of Europe most desirable countries?
Over the past few years, I have travelled everywhere in Europe, discovering new cities and amazing locations, astounded by the incredible culture and patrimonial history I experienced, not unlike in Le Marais District of Paris…

The closest country that I can liken to the soul of le Marais is Austria, with its small towns and historical locations. So I wanted to report back to you and give you tips and ideas that you would not have thought of before extending your stay in Europe.

After you have visited Paris in the summer, be sure to head for the Alps and discover some dream hotels in the home country of Mozart. Here’s my Top Five selection.

Yodelay oooh-hooo !

Pascal Fonquernie
Chief Editor Parismarais.com

SALZBURG : Schloss Fuschl *****

Nestled in Austria’s "Sound of Music" Salzkammergut region, overlooking Lake Fuschl, is the storybook Fuschl Castle, world-renowned for its spellbinding natural beauty and now a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, dates back to 1450 and is just a 20-minute drive from Salzburg city and Wolfgang-Amadeus Mozart Airport. Pick up in a 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom on request.
Former setting of several historical movies such as “Sissi Empress” with Romy Schneider, the Schloss Fuschl was at initially the residence of the archbishop of Salzburg.

This incomparable setting offers endless outdoor activities, from swimming and hiking to golfing and vintage car rallies. Inside, the wellness spa is a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation, while the onsite restaurants afford unforgettable dining experiences with a view over Lake Fuschl. Each of the 110 rooms, suites and lakeside cottages combines old European charm with state-of-the-art opulence. Refined nuances like an Old Masters painting collection and sparkling chandeliers add a regal air of sophistication and grandeur. Every year in summertime the world cognoscienti of classical music stay here for the majestic Salzburg Opera Festival.

RESERVATION

BREGENZ : Schwärzler Hotel****

A traditional house with a long-standing history, the former Gasthof Rieden was taken over by the Bregenzerwald family Schwärzler-Nussbaumer in 1930. At this time, the train stop Rieden Bregenzerwaldbahn was directly outside the hotel, so hungry and thirsty travellers could walk straight in and satisfy their needs. Thus, the success story of a traditional Bregenz hotel began.

In 1973, a big extension was built, and in 2013 a comprehensive renovation under the direction of the Bregenz architectural firm Dorner / Matt, with special attention paid to the Bregenzerwald workroom and the works of other regional craftsmen.
The hotel is eco-friendly, using local materials for furniture, food and employing local staff, and a bonus, for francophone visitors, the management also speak perfect French. You can truly experience the highest standard of Vorarlberg living comfort at the Hotel Schwärzler.

RESERVATION

SCHRUNS : Hotel Spa Fernblick Montafon ****

The Hotel “Fernblick Montafon” in Bartholomäberg near Schruns is literally an invitation for you to dream. The sumptuous family-run holiday hotel in the middle of the Montafon mountain range will delight you with its many relaxation and leisure opportunities all year round. The Sky Pool, which offers a unique view of the surrounding Montafon mountains of Vorarlberg and beyond the state's borders, provides breathtaking views. A haven for well-being for those who are looking for something out of the ordinary.

Fernblick Montafon has a long welcoming tradition and is closely connected with the Zudrell family, who have made the Fernblick holiday hotel what it is today. True to the motto of the Zudrell family, “We live what we love”, given that their goal is to make sure that all guests have an unforgettable time in Bartholomäberg Village. This vision is also in the culinary aspects of the mouth-watering buffets. Every day, you will be spoilt with regional produce and incredible attention to detail which will take you on a fascinating epicurean trip through Vorarlberg, Austria and indeed the rest of the world!
As Claudia, says « clients like you Pascal become good friends and they come back forever… » Absolutely True !

RESERVATION

INNSBRUCK : The Penz Hotel ****

Nestled in the modern building complex of the “Rathaus-Galerie” in the centre of historical city Innsbruck, the PENZ Hotel proudly boasts premium design and international architecture. There is that wonderful feeling of luxury from the moment you walk in, however prices are surprising for such levels of hospitality. The PENZ Hotel is a connoisseur’s dream, where a careful selection of interior design features and lovingly hand crafted furniture adorn the entire building. Close to the Hoffburg, the Trapp Palace, the cathedral and the famous Maria Theresien Strasse, the Penz is the center point of Innsbruck.

Its roof top terrace is also the breakfast room - served until noon at weekends - and is open to guests and the public, which creates a great mix of Tyrolean people and international visitors… dress as you wish - dirndl and lederhosen most welcome! The bar serves amazing local beers priced from €4,50 and cocktails like the Hugo… Discover drinks from around the world as well as new, trendy creations prepared by their highly innovative bar team.
End your day in style looking out across the rooftops of Innsbruck, to the gentle sound of the cocktail shaker, take time to appreciate a glass of fine champagne or try out an unfamiliar wine from Austria’s ambitious young winemakers. Whether it be after a long day at work or as a way to kick start the weekend, make the most of your free time. Best breakfast buffet on the planet, or close enough!

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VIENNA : 25 Hours Wien ****

Come on in. At the 25 hours Wien Hotel, Vienna in the museum district, guests are instantly submerged in a bold circus of artists, clowns and elephants. The hotel becomes their stage. The Augsburg-based design team, Dreimeta, led by Armin Fischer breathes new life into dreams and sensations. You won’t find anything cliché here. Sexy and surprising, surreal and exotic: Vibrant colours, unique vintage finds and exclusive wallpaper by the Berlin-based illustrator, Olaf Hayek shapes the design of the 183 guest rooms and 34 suites.

The crowning glory: the roof terrace, famous across the city with a spectacular view of Vienna and the museum district, serves the best drinks in the city. Foodmakers serve cool, Italian cuisine with a hint of American influence. The best way to explore Vienna is on wheels. That’s why 25 hours Wien offer their guests the city’s coolest speedsters. Guests can also explore the area with a test drive on four wheels thanks to their cooperation with MINI. Either select the option when making your booking or just enquire at reception. Not to miss cocktail time on the rooftop terrace !

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