Stay & Play
A Journey Through Germany: From the Alps to Berlin
by by Olivia Liveng
There are few ways to truly understand a country than by immersing yourself in its contrasts. On my latest journey through Germany, I experienced two completely different yet equally mesmerizing sides of the country: the serene luxury of Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps and the grandeur of Hotel Adlon Kempinski in the heart of Berlin. Taking the train between these two iconic destinations allowed me to witness firsthand the cultural, culinary, and environmental diversity that makes Germany such a fascinating place to explore.
The Journey Begins: A Train Through Changing Landscapes
My journey began in Munich, where I was picked up in a lavish vehicle, bound for Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the gateway to Schloss Elmau. As the car moved further from the city, the scenery transformed—flat landscapes gave way to rolling hills and, eventually, the dramatic peaks of the Bavarian Alps. The crisp mountain air greeted me as I arrived at my first destination, a retreat that felt a world apart from urban Germany.
Schloss Elmau: A Sanctuary in the Alps
Schloss Elmau is more than just a hotel—it’s a secluded haven where nature, culture, and wellness intertwine effortlessly. The retreat offers an unparalleled sense of peace in a valley surrounded by the Wetterstein Mountains. My first morning there, I awoke to the sound of birds and the scent of fresh mountain air, a stark contrast to the bustling city life I had left behind.
One of the defining features of Schloss Elmau is its dual concept: the Schloss Elmau Retreat and the Schloss Elmau Hideaway. With its grand spa and classical architecture, the Hideaway evokes timeless elegance, while the Retreat provides a more intimate, contemporary experience. No matter where you stay, the breathtaking views and the hospitality are seamless.
Dining in the Bavarian Alps
Each meal at Schloss Elmau felt like a celebration of the senses. At Luce d’Oro, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant, I indulged in an exquisite tasting menu crafted by Executive Chef Christoph Rainer. Alpine trout, paired with delicate herbs, was a standout, as was the perfectly prepared wagyu beef. Every bite reflected the natural bounty of Bavaria.
For a more relaxed experience, Fidelio served up comforting yet sophisticated Italian dishes. Sitting on the sunlit terrace, with a plate of handmade pasta and a glass of white wine, I felt completely at ease. Meanwhile, Ananda catered to my health-conscious cravings with its plant-based, Ayurvedic-inspired dishes.
Between meals, I explored the wellness offerings, from panoramic saunas to rejuvenating spa treatments. Hiking through the surrounding meadows, I marveled at the quiet majesty of the Alps, a stark contrast to the urban energy I knew awaited me in Berlin.
A Change of Pace: The Train to Berlin
Leaving Schloss Elmau was bittersweet, but I knew another unforgettable experience lay ahead. Boarding the train to Berlin was an adventure in itself—watching the landscapes shift from rugged mountains to the flat plains of central Germany before finally arriving in the vibrant capital. The transition felt symbolic: from tranquility to dynamism, from old-world charm to modern sophistication.
Hotel Adlon Kempinski
A Grand Welcome to Berlin
Stepping out of Berlin Hauptbahnhof and arriving at the doors of the Adlon Kempinski felt like stepping into another era. Overlooking the Brandenburg Gate, this legendary hotel exudes old-world elegance. From its grand chandelier-lit lobby to its impeccable service, Adlon Kempinski remains one of the most storied hotels in Europe, having hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries for over a century.
Where Schloss Elmau offered solitude, Adlon Kempinski provided access to the very heart of Berlin’s culture and history. In the mornings, I strolled down Unter den Linden, soaking in the city’s historic landmarks. Afternoons were spent visiting museums, indulging in Berlin’s dynamic café culture, and discovering the creative energy that defines the city.
Culinary Excellence in the Capital
The dining experiences at Adlon Kempinski rivaled those of Schloss Elmau but in a completely different way. At Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, I experienced modern German gastronomy at its finest. Each dish, from tender venison to an intricate dessert inspired by Berlin’s urban landscape, was a masterclass in flavor and presentation.
Sra Bua by Tim Raue offered a refreshing change of pace, blending Asian flavors with European techniques. Each bite transported me further east, with bold spices and delicate seafood dishes providing an exciting contrast to the Alpine fare I had enjoyed days earlier.
Afternoons at the Adlon Lounge became a cherished ritual. Enjoying traditional afternoon tea with a view of the Brandenburg Gate, I reflected on how different yet complementary Schloss Elmau and Adlon Kempinski were—two halves of the same incredible journey.
A Tale of Two Destinations
My trip between Schloss Elmau and Adlon Kempinski revealed Germany’s incredible diversity. The train journey between the two offered a window into the country’s landscapes and culture, transitioning from snow-capped peaks to bustling boulevards, from rustic Alpine traditions to sophisticated urban elegance.
At Schloss Elmau, I found serenity in nature, deep relaxation, and an appreciation for mindful living. In Berlin, I embraced the energy of the city, indulging in its cultural offerings and world-class dining. The juxtaposition of these two experiences made each one more profound.
For travelers seeking the ultimate German experience, combining Schloss Elmau and Adlon Kempinski is an unforgettable way to discover the country’s contrasts. Whether you start in the Alps and end in the capital or vice versa, this journey offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, tradition and innovation, retreat and revelry.
One thing is certain: I will return. Whether to once again breathe in the fresh mountain air of Schloss Elmau or to sip a perfectly crafted cocktail at the Adlon, Germany’s luxury hospitality has left an indelible mark on my heart.
https://www.schloss-elmau.de/en/
