Six overnight stays in palaces, monasteries and castles: sleep like a king

Holzen Monastery: a place of power with spirit and history

Holzen Monastery ©Kloster Holzen Hotel GmbH

This centuries-old estate is not only situated on a picturesque hill between Augsburg and Donauwörth, but also between heaven and earth. So goes the motto of the hotel, which opened in 2011 and offers worldly comforts while preserving the spirit of the former Benedictine convent. All around are places to stop for refreshments, from a must-see church to a forest nature trail. The monastery inn provides a special spot for a bite.

Leitheim Castle: time travel through the centuries

Leitheim Castle ©Regio Augsburg Tourismus GmbH (Colette Zinsmeister)

Wine has always played a role around this castle , which sits not far from the Danube. It all began with Cistercian monks in the 12th century. Their abbots may have long since disappeared from the Leitheim summer residence, but the castle wines have not. Not to mention the buildings, above all the magnificent rococo palace. A new hotel building was added in 2015, harmonising perfectly with the existing architecture – including a spa, outdoor pool with vineyard views and a top-class restaurant with an exquisite drinks menu.

Eberbach Abbey: walls that breathe history

Inner courtyard of Eberbach Monastery ©DZT (Florian Trykowski)

Just 15 minutes by bus from Eltville am Rhein, the former abbey offers a marvellous journey through time. Not only is it one of the oldest Cistercian abbeys in Germany, but thanks to its Romanesque and early Gothic buildings it is also one of the most important artistic monuments in Europe. Guests can even stay overnight in the historic guest house, where the restored rooms have retained their monastic charm. Strolls through the extensive gardens and wine tastings in the monastery cellar are also rather charming.

Schloss Lieser: a noble mix of history and modernity

Lieser Castle ©Schloss Lieser - Autograph Collection (Julian Huke)

Schloss Lieser stands out among the magnificent Moselle vineyards and castles, also in terms of its core values. Built in 1884, the stately building has undergone a facelift in recent years and become a luxury residence. It's not only the 125 square metre Kaiser Suite that sets the standard (smaller accommodations available as well), but also the fine dining restaurant and the spa and wellness area. The library, chapel and wine cellar are perfect places to reflect on so much splendour.

Schloss Neetzow: a stately oasis of calm

Hotel and Neetzow Castle ©Tourismusverband MV e.V.

Located in the heart of Western Pomerania not far from the Baltic Sea coast, this stately home built in the neo-Gothic Tudor style offers an opulent overnight experience. The 30 or so carefully restored rooms and suites combine the charm of the past with modern comfort. What unites them all is the view of the enchanted parkland and lake. Peter Joseph Lenné, for a long time the top Prussian garden artist, designed this magical green world.

Hornbach Abbey: history meets zeitgeist

Hotel Hornbach Monastery ©Kloster Hornbach (Graf Ferdinand Luckner)

The former Benedictine monastery is just as easy to reach by public transport from Zweibrücken as it is to forget noise, hustle and bustle. Your four-star romantic mini break begins in the hall, where high walls reflect over 1,250 years of history. Under original cross arches, guests then enjoy massages in the 'Himmelreich' and gourmet menus in the 'Refugium'.