Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden
Two Michelin Keys
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Hotel Details
Location
Berchtesgaden
Germany, Europe
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Key Highlights
- ✓Water Pressure:** One guest noted that the walk-in shower's handheld and rainforest shower heads did not have "amazing water pressure."
Expert Review: Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden
The Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden, a distinguished Michelin Two-Keys property, offers an exceptional luxury retreat nestled amidst the breathtaking Bavarian Alps. Guests consistently praise its stunning location, impeccable service, and comprehensive amenities, contributing to an overwhelmingly positive sentiment.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as "perfect," "fabulous," and "one of the nicest hotels" they have ever stayed at. Reviewers often express a strong desire to return, highlighting an exceptional overall experience that exceeds expectations. The hotel boasts high ratings for its location (9.7), cleanliness (9.6), facilities (9.5), and comfort (9.6).
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently love the hotel's:
- Location & Views: Situated 1000m up on Eckerbichl, the hotel offers "absolutely stunning location with exceptional views" of the Bavarian Alps, including the Untersberg massif and Kneifelspitze, and even glimpses of Salzburg on a clear day. The architectural design subtly blends into the natural grandeur, almost appearing hidden within a mountain lair.
- Service & Staff: The staff is frequently described as "extremely friendly," "courteous and attentive but relaxed," "helpful," and "amazing." The hotel prides itself on legendary Bavarian hospitality with a personal touch.
- Amenities: Highlights include an award-winning spa with indoor and outdoor pools (the outdoor pool is heated and offers mountain views, even in falling snow), a well-equipped gym, a kids' club, and even a helipad. There's also a golf course, one of Germany's highest, available in the summer.
- Design: The interior features harmonious chic and modern design using top-notch materials, with a focus on natural light. The "wood and stone" design concept is prevalent throughout.
3. Room Quality
The elegant rooms and suites are stylishly furnished, spacious, and designed for comfort and luxury. They offer complimentary Wi-Fi and a mini-bar. Many rooms feature private balconies or terraces with stunning alpine and garden views. Bathrooms are generously sized, often equipped with large Villeroy & Boch fittings, double sinks, a walk-in shower, and a deep bathtub, along with luxurious toiletries like Elemental Herbology and Diptyque. Thoughtful touches include comfortable bathrobes and Bavarian rubber ducks. Some rooms also boast adjustable remotely operated log fires.
4. Dining Experience
The hotel offers diverse culinary experiences. The Restaurant Johann Grill provides a delightful setting with wooden finishes and ample natural light, serving an "amazing" and "incredible" Alpine buffet breakfast. This lavish spread includes complimentary champagne, fresh local produce like wurst, speck, hams, organic eggs, smoked trout, a variety of yogurts, granola, artisan breads, smoothies, and an extensive selection of herbal teas. Guests can also order made-to-order egg dishes and enjoy fresh juices and a coffee cart. Special requests, like gluten-free bread, are readily accommodated. For an upscale experience, there is also the 2-Michelin-starred Gourmet Restaurant PUR. Additionally, guests can enjoy the Lobby Lounge and Kamin Bar, with the latter recommended for its Eckerbichl-Torte.
5. Service & Staff
The service and staff are consistently lauded as a major strength of the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden. Guests experience a warm welcome, often met by a Bavarian doorman and offered non-alcoholic fruit schnapps upon arrival. Staff are described as friendly, helpful, polite, and attentive, creating a relaxed and personal atmosphere. The hotel aims to "surprise and delight" guests and "create unique guest experiences with local Bavarian flair." A unique feature mentioned is the "Lady in Red" concierge service, a woman in a striking ruby-red dress who is easily identifiable.
6. Location & Accessibility
The hotel's secluded mountain location on Obersalzberg, 1000 meters above sea level, is a significant draw, offering unparalleled panoramic views. While nestled in a pristine wilderness of lakes and mountains, it remains accessible. It is approximately 25 kilometers from Salzburg and just over an hour and a half drive from Munich. The hotel is about 4 km from the town of Berchtesgaden itself, with a local bus (line 838) providing direct service from Dokumentation Obersalzberg (a short walk from the hotel) to Berchtesgaden in about 8-15 minutes. Taxis offer a faster 5-minute journey. The location is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with 230 km of hiking trails in the Berchtesgaden National Park, proximity to Königsee (6 km), and attractions like the Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus).
7. Value & Pricing
As a 5-star ultra-luxurious property, the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden comes at a premium price. Average room rates start from $500+, significantly higher than the typical $201-$250 for other hotels in Berchtesgaden. However, guests generally consider it worth the cost for the "unparalleled experience characterized by opulence, exceptional service, and breathtaking views." Many perceive the investment as elevating their experience, providing exclusive amenities and unmatched alpine vistas. During low season, rates have been observed as low as HK$1,600, suggesting potential opportunities for more value.
8. Common Complaints
While reviews are largely positive, a few minor points have been raised:
- Water Pressure: One guest noted that the walk-in shower's handheld and rainforest shower heads did not have "amazing water pressure."
- Gym Equipment: The gym machines were described as having "weights completely different to what I was used to," requiring an adjustment period.
- Lounge Furnishing: A general lounge area was found to be "sparsely furnished" and lacking value as a place to spend time, despite the hotel not having a designated club lounge.
- WiFi Cost: While "standard" WiFi is free, "premium" WiFi costs 9 EUR per night.
- Event Disruptions: Occasionally, special events like car displays on-site might temporarily affect accessibility to the entryway.
- Booking Issues (general Kempinski feedback): While not specific to Berchtesgaden, a few reviews for Kempinski Hotels in general mentioned issues with being double-debited for rooms or missed reservations not being honored when booked through third parties. This highlights the importance of direct booking or careful verification when using external platforms.
Sources
Points to Consider
- •Lounge Furnishing:** A general lounge area was found to be "sparsely furnished" and lacking value as a place to spend time, despite the hotel not having a designated club lounge.
About Two Michelin Keys
Two Michelin Keys recognize hotels that provide an excellent stay experience. These properties stand out for their remarkable quality, distinctive character, and superior service that goes above and beyond expectations.
