Suite one
Hotel Goldener Hirsch Salzburg, Austria
First Impressions
Hordes of tourists line the busy Getreidegasse in Salzburg’s old town most days, but tucked away steps past Mozart’s childhood home is Austria’s oldest hotel, Goldener Hirsch, built in 1407. Its Renaissance origins are evident from the moment I enter the small forest green double doors and archway entrance. It’s a different world (and era). Not only are staff dressed in traditional costume and as golden keys hang from a wooden bureau, the antique architecture and furnishings and stag head motif are echoed throughout the hotel. Adding to its llustrious history is the list of celebrities, musicians, aristocracy and statesman who have visited over the years.
Wow Factor
From its rich history and countless stories, to people watching on the Getreidegasse to quiet moments with some of the Altstadt (Old Town) most famous sites (Mönchsberg, St. Blaise’s
Church), this is a great place to be in the centre of the action.
The Room
The 69 guest rooms and suites retain the charm of a romantic 15th century inn, but are all updated with modern amenities (using Wi-Fi at a middle age hotel makes me smile). Small details like the Nespresso machine in the business centre, and hazelnut praline turndown chocolates were the kind of unexpected treats that made my stay here all the more enjoyable.
Breakfast
Each morning in the breakfast room a lavish spread awaited me, including Laurent Perrier champagne which I enjoyed with smoked fish, herbed cheese spread and hearty rye bread.
Read more about Austria, including where to stay, what to do and what to eat in the Fall 2014 issue of City Style and Living Magazine
