Gästehaus Zentral Bad Schandau

The staff were professional and kind wherever I went, and dinner at the restaurant was good. Later, I had a great cocktail at the bar, so stopping there was a good call. I stayed in a Junior Suite at Hotel Elbresidenz in Bad Schandau. It was spacious for its category and had all the necessary amenities. The minibar was empty because I hadn't chosen a minibar package in advance. I assume there would otherwise be some standard drinks and snacks to pick from, but it wasn't a big issue. For an early hike, room service breakfast is available half an hour before the buffet, for a small extra charge. Bad Schandau also participates in the "Gästekarte Sächsische Schweiz MOBIL" (Guest Card Sächsische Schweiz MOBILE), which covers bus travel, most regional trains, and most ferries. It's funded through the solidarity Tourist Levy scheme, and some exceptions apply, such as the ferry in Rathen. I'd recommend staying at the hotel and visiting Bad Schandau.

The spa was a real highlight. Guests can use all the pool areas at Toskana Therme, and we especially liked the ’liquid sound’. There's a restaurant inside, and you tap the ship you receive when you arrive to pay when you leave, so you don't need to bring money in. The same building as the rooms also has a pool and a nude sauna. The hotel is by the river and ferry. Staff were friendly and gave us all the information we needed. Our room was clean and came with shampoo and soap. Breakfast had plenty of variety, and we enjoyed our morning coffee outside in the garden. On arrival, they give you a ticket for travel around the Saxon region. We used it for the bus, train, and ferry to Bastei Bridge, though it doesn't cover the ferry between Rathen and Bastei. Very convenient. If you don't like noise, ask for a riverside room. Otherwise, you can hear the church clock chime every hour.

We had a great stay. The hotel was clean, modern, and spacious, and the spa had plenty of room and a lovely view of the Elbe. Breakfast offered a lot of choice and was good quality. Service was excellent, and the staff were very helpful, including in English. We ate at the hotel restaurant and enjoyed the food and wines. It's also well placed for hikes and other nice spots nearby. Nothing but positives!

There's plenty of nature nearby, and entry to the thermal spa is free. Staff were helpful, the food was excellent, and breakfast was delicious. The à la carte menu was great too. A lovely hotel for a quiet weekend, and we'll definitely come back.