Romantik Hotel Zum Stern

The hotel is lovely, but the service I experienced was rude and dismissive. I sat on the terrace on the main square for about ten minutes before an unfriendly waiter came to take my order. I tried speaking German, but he showed no politeness or eye contact, and seemed not to appreciate the effort. Later, a female waitress was just as unfriendly when I ordered from her. She also seemed unimpressed by my German and, in what felt like an offhand way, told me, “please speak English if you are struggling to speak German.” No wonder it was the only empty spot in a very busy square.

The rooms have plenty of character, and I stayed in several during my many work trips to Bad Hersfeld, never the same one twice. They were all large and clean. The Romantik is old and full of history, and its location in the town center is a real plus. Still, the furniture and carpets could use an update. It may not be a priority, since the Romantik is one of several hotels that seem to be owned by the same family, but a spruce-up would help. The restaurant was good, as was the service. I only tried the regular restaurant, not the Michelin-starred le table. The full menu is available only until 9 pm, then a smaller menu is served, which is a pity. The restaurant also closes several nights each week, which can be inconvenient. Don't be put off by that. I also tried the nearby B & F, about 20 yards from the Romantik and apparently owned by the same family. It costs much less and is more modern. It's perfectly good for a short stay, though very minimalist and without a restaurant.

I chose the hotel because of its good reviews and pool, but after reception explained how to get to it and use it, I found a sign saying it was out of order. I wish they'd mentioned that before I went down. In my room, the wardrobe shelf kept falling out whenever I put anything on it. Room cleaning also had to be requested instead of happening automatically. I'm not sure how this place earned a four-star rating.

For a long time, I haven't found a better deal for the price. My room was small, but it had everything I needed. The staff were very friendly, breakfast was included in a fair room rate, and even the minibar beer came at no extra charge. That's what I call customer focus.