The German word “schloss” means castle, and the country’s landscape is dotted with historic castles that have been converted into boutique hotels, boasting renovated interiors that serve as storied spaces for guests.
The former site of the fortress of the Counts von Schack from 1220 to 1895, the Castle of Wendorf’s new history began in 1905 when architect Paul Korff redesigned and built the property from the ground up. Now a hotel, the Wendorf has 10 suites, each with a parlor, bedroom, bath and kitchen, all outfitted with antique furnishings and paintings. Amenities include the Cheval Blanc restaurant, as well as a game room, library, bar, terrace and spa. Area attractions include horseback riding at the property's Equestrian Sports Arena, as well as golf at the Winston Golf Center, located about 10 minutes away. The city of Schwerin, is nearby where visitors can enjoy museums, theatre, an open air opera and gambling at the Schwerin Casino.
The Luetgenhof Castle, located around Dassow Lake, opened in April 1999, after more than seven years of restoration and renovation. The Luetgenhof boasts contemporary, warm interiors with 23 rooms, the modern design of which contrasts the castle’s classical architecture. A restaurant serves dishes influenced by the Mediterranean, and the hotel also has a spa and tucked-away holiday apartments in the garden. The Luetgenhof notes a long history prior to its time as a hotel, beginning with 1539 and the property’s status as a fiefdom. Nearly 300 years later, in 1839, the Lords of Paepcke began building the manor house. The property was converted to a castle in 1890, during which time new construction began on a north wing annex and a conservatory. In the area surrounding the property, guests can spend time exploring the beaches in Rosen or take a trip to the seaside city of Lübeck, about 16 miles away, to enjoy cultural attractions such as museums, cathedrals and other monumental buildings.
The Schloss Rheinfels Hotel is part of the Rheinfels castle, the largest fortress on the central Rhine. Opened in 1973, the hotel has 61 rooms and suites which have been restored and upgraded to include modern amenities while paying homage to the building’s medieval past with antiques, paintings and regal design elements. The property also boasts two restaurants and terraces, two bars and a fitness and spa center. The Conference Villa Rheinfels offers eight meeting areas and an open-air gathering space. Leisure outdoor activities near the hotel include cross-country skiing, indoor tennis courts and fishing opportunities, along with golf and horseback riding. Concerts and art exhibitions are among the cultural attractions in the area.
