Stephen B.
Yelp
Heaven or the Pigalle??!!
OK, granted I make some assumptions here. Such as Heaven is an option for me in the afterlife. But barring that being in error, I have to say in all my years of business and personal travel (35 yrs.), this is most definitively the #1 best hotel I've ever stayed in. A close second was a villa in Bangkok circa 1991, but allow me to stay focused.
The decor of the lobby lounge, rooms and hotel is straight out of Vienna fin de siecle, 1800's. The lobby/lounge area and restaurant are awash in the glow of candle light and fireplace. You'd think that every employee was an owner due to their sincere desire to make you welcome and comfortable. When my wife thought our luggage would be overweight, Niklas, the mgr. (owner?) kindly offered to pack and ship any excess clothing home to the States for us. And he would not consider taking any payment for this kind and gracious offering.
The bedroom was a sanctuary. The think walls of the building block out almost all sound from within and without the building. Except for the magical train whistle from the nearby train station we heard next to nothing for the week we stayed there. The down feather bed, and mattress make you never want to get out of bed and deco photos, flowery wall coverings, and bathroom fixtures create a feeling of being back in the day.
The restaurant deserves a review in and of itself. It is a gourmet experience from start to finish. From the multiple offerings at the customary inclusive breakfast fare of home baked goods, locally sourced cheeses, eggs, fantastic coffee and latte's and charcuterie to the incredibly creative and sumptuous dinner offering. All enjoyed tucked under the eaves of the inn's top floor and awash in the glow from the fireplace.
So bottom line. If you find yourself in the charming town of Gotenberg, or even if you don't. You need to find your way to the Pigalle, walk in and let the door close behind you, and allow yourself be transported back to another place and time. And please give a big Philly hello to Kiklas and his team at the Pigalle!!