Residence Kastanienbaum

The lake views were lovely, and I really liked having a private beach for swimming. But I wouldn’t recommend a summer stay. We happened to be there during unusually hot weather, and were told to keep the windows open, even though there were no screens. They gave us a plug-in bug repellent, but our room was right above the restaurant, so with the windows open we heard noise late into the night. By the next day I had welts all over from bug bites. We paid close to 400 a night, and I felt there should have been more consideration for that.

The view is the main draw, and the lakeside setting is lovely and quiet. Still, expect a few compromises: the facilities are basic, more boutique-hotel style, breakfast is average with little variety, and there’s no air conditioning. In summer, opening the windows can help with the heat, but then mosquitoes become a problem. We also found the service disappointing. Staff weren’t flexible about room requests, and we were asked to pay for an upgrade that was actually cheaper online. Decent value if the view is what you’re after.

For the price, the views and stay were great. The 21 bus runs in and out regularly, and if you’re watching your budget it also stops at Coop.

Everything felt perfect, and Vanessa Wild was especially kind. She greeted us with a smile, gave professional service, helped with our bags, and printed our tickets and even the dinner menu. The one thing I’d ask them to review is the prices.