Berghotel Wintersberg

We had a huge room with a small balcony and a nice view. The decor isn’t very modern, but it suits the atmosphere, and the owners are welcoming. It feels more like a friendly family guest house than a standard hotel. The location has its tradeoffs. You need to drive into town to get food, but you’re away from the bustle and get a lovely view. There are drinks in the bar. Breakfast was good, though not the phenomenal spread some reviewers describe. I’d still choose it unless you want to drive down for your first good coffee. The restaurant view is worth the price, and they serve homemade marmalades and a tasty selection of breads.

What a beautiful location, but contrary to the website, this is NOT a hotel. There’s no reception, café, or restaurant. When you arrive, you have to ring someone to explain how to open the key safe, unless they happen to come open the front door. Breakfast is simply put in front of you, with no menu or choice. We booked two double rooms, then were told they were fully booked and we could only have one double and one single. They didn’t seem full at all. I assume the hosts are retiring and doing only the bare minimum to pay the bills.

The owners were amazing, and the food was superb, so there was no need to go out for a meal. Having drinks on the patio at sunset was just right. It’s a wonderful sanctuary a little way from Bad Elms, with 42 beautiful hiking trails offering history and hiking. We’re definitely going back.

In a leafy, forested area, the hotel has a lovely view over Bad Ems and the valley. The staff were friendly, and my room was comfortable and clean.