The Best Hotels and Resorts in Europe and the UK: The Gold List 2024

"Some hotels stir emotions and soothe the soul in equal measure. Schloss Elmau—a sprawling sanctuary high up in the Bavarian Alps—is one such place. It could be the pristine air or the crystal-clear lakes. Maybe it’s the enormous rooms, sensationally comfortable beds or floor-to-ceiling windows with uninterrupted mountain views. Or possibly it’s the reassuringly weighty, boldly colored bathrobes that are given to each guest, including children, on arrival—perfect for darting across the vast lawn to the outdoor Nature Spa. Pursuits including wild swimming, e-mountain bike tours, yoga, concerts, talks, walks and much more keep bodies and minds active, while eight restaurants, ranging from family-friendly buffet style in La Salle to fine dining at Luce D’Oro, ensure that tummies are full. There are six spas (three for adults and three for families), heated outdoor infinity pools, steam baths and saunas, two slick gyms and a vast hammam. Philosopher Johannes Müller built the original property in 1916 as a place for people to discover the spiritual benefits of nature and music. Today, Dietmar Müller-Elmau, his grandson, runs the magical microcosm with a modern spin on its founding principles and stratospheric levels of comfort. Perfected over decades, this place invigorates the mind, body and soul. From $744. —Louisa Parker Bowles" - CNT Editors