Figures, garlands, fairy lights and sometimes a pinch of kitsch: these hotels are the perfect place for Christmas.
Let's be honest, who is already (or rather still not) in the Christmas spirit? With several Christmas markets opening in a few days, the festive season is definitely just around the corner. And what could be better than spending the time ahead in an enchanting place? Falstaff presents the top hotels for a magical and festive stay.
The "Mandarin Oriental" in Lucerne is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating hotels for a Christmas break. Situated on beautiful Lake Lucerne and surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Swiss Alps, this luxury hotel offers a pleasant getaway for the holidays. Visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere within the historic walls of the hotel, which feature elegant Christmas decorations and decorated Christmas trees. With a view of the lake and the mountains, you can experience the tranquillity of the season here, while the "Rudolf's Christmas Spectacular" Christmas market (from November 17) is just a few minutes' walk away.
The prestigious London hotel, a landmark in the heart of Mayfair, has once again teamed up with fashion house "Louis Vuitton" to present an elaborately designed Christmas tree. Known as one of the finest hotels in the world, Claridge's has hosted numerous celebrities over the years, including Cary Grant, Katharine Hepburn, Audrey Hepburn, Yul Brynner and Bing Crosby. The hotel's annual Christmas exhibition, where a renowned designer creates a spectacular Christmas tree, is a major event. The suitcases are adorned with historic Claridge's travel stickers and an oversized Louis Vuitton luggage tag adorns each suitcase. The top of the tree is occupied by Asnières, the historic family home and atelier of Louis Vuitton.
At the "Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere", guests experience a magical Christmas season in 303 modern rooms, including 44 suites with unique interior decorations and a view of Belvedere Palace. Every year the lobby is transformed into a fairytale winter wonderland with twinkling lights and a stately Christmas tree. Alexander Bitz presents an impressive gingerbread house as a tribute to Vienna, from iconic landmarks to the festive town hall. The festive atmosphere can be experienced in the "Aurora Rooftop Bar" above the rooftops of Vienna. For an authentic Christmas atmosphere away from the crowds, the Türkenschanzpark Christmas market offers high-quality arts and crafts.
At the renowned "Peninsula Hotels" worldwide, the festive season becomes an enchanting experience for guests of all ages. The hotel series, which has served as treasured "homes away from home" for generations of luxury travellers, transforms into a magical winter wonderland at Christmas. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by a variety of activities for the whole family. From decorating gingerbread houses and baking cookies to a visit from Santa Claus and a teddy bear; there is something special to discover in every Peninsula Hotel.
Guests can also take part in unique experiences this year. This category also includes writing Christmas postcards at "The Peninsula Tokyo", a Christmas afternoon tea for children at the hotel in Paris, in collaboration with the French children's fashion brand "Tartine et Chocolat" and ice skating on the roof of the Sky Rink in Chicago.
This year, the "Peninsula Hong Kong" hotel is also offering a magical journey on the "Peninsula Express". Inspired by the golden age of rail travel, the hotel takes its guests on a virtual journey to London and Istanbul.
In London's enchanting Mayfair district, the renowned "The Brown's Hotel", a "Rocco Forte Hotel", will be transformed into a chocolate paradise from mid-November in collaboration with the UK's first "Chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker". The festive atmosphere permeates the historic hotel, which is characterised by delicious chocolates, twinkling fairy lights and red ribbons. Guests can expect a true feast for the senses, from tempting chocolate wagons in "Charlie's Restaurant" to chocolate-spiced cocktails in the "Donovan Bar" and chocolatey spa treatments in "The Brown's Spa". The highlight of the festive chocolate paradise is the opulent Christmas tree. The festive suite package offers a luxurious stay in a suite with its own Christmas tree and an exclusive box of chocolate truffles.
A castle by the lake. And Christmas in the castle. Each one is something special in itself. Both together at "Schloss Seefels" are like a fairy tale; only for real. On the shores of Lake Wörthersee in Carinthia, "Schloss Seefels" also offers a magical backdrop for the season. With its historic walls, magnificent Christmas decorations and a touch of nostalgia, it transports its guests directly into the world of Christmas fairy tales - Christmas trees are opulently decorated and full of fragrance. The programme around Christmas promises a lot.
Is there a more magical place for Christmas than the city that never sleeps? The luxury oasis of the "Mandarin Oriental", located in one of the city's most striking skyscrapers, not only offers a spectacular view of Central Park and the Hudson River, but also an unparalleled experience for those who want to spend the Christmas season in the extraordinary city (from November 28). Just a 5-minute walk away is the "Columbus Circle Holiday Market in the southwest corner of Central Park. More than 100 artisans and designers present their unique goods, specialities, handmade jewellery, art and much more.
The "Park Hyatt Milan" shines in 80s retro splendour for the Christmas season under the motto "Vintage Christmas". The 5-star hotel with 106 rooms offers an inviting atmosphere with artistic designs by illustrator Jordi Labanda and festive decorations by Anna Flower Designer. An imposing six-metre Christmas tree in the domed lounge and festively decorated trees in the suites and restaurant create a thoroughly festive atmosphere. In collaboration with "La Compagnia di Babbo Natale", the Park Hyatt Milan invites you to an enchanting breakfast with 15 Santas and festive songs.
Winter can also come to the south side of the Alps in sunny East Tyrol; the popular golf hotel "Dolomitengolf Suites" is also an exclusive tip for a winter vacation. The complex is known for its modern architecture and first-class facilities that meet the highest standards. At Christmas the 5-star design hotel invites you to take a winter break - here, guests can not only enjoy the peace and beauty of the wintry Alpine world, but also take advantage of first-class culinary experiences and wellness offers.
From the winter wonderland in Hyde Park to the twinkling lights in iconic locations such as Bond Street and Belgravia, the British capital and its charming Christmas markets are always a highlight at Christmas. During the Christmas season, the "Mandarin Oriental" shines in festive splendour and offers its visitors a magical atmosphere. Not only the lobby and public areas are artfully decorated but the exterior of the hotel can also be admired for its festive lighting (from November 20).
