Akademie Berlin-Schmöckwitz

The terrace has a stunning view over the surrounding lakes and rivers, and the location really is in the middle of nowhere. That’s part of the appeal if you book here. I came for a seminar and had a great time, so I don’t understand the bad reviews. The service was nice, and the food was exceptional, especially the vegetarian choices. The morning and evening buffets weren’t huge, but there was a good range of flavors, including lentil salads, chickpeas and all sorts of vegetables. Rooms are small and simple. There’s no A/C, which is pretty normal in Germany. A really nice place for a seminar.

It’s a lovely place for a relaxing break away from the city’s busyness. The staff were fantastic and friendly, and the hospitality was wonderful. I’d highly recommend it as a holiday destination.

Julian deserves a shout-out, he takes care of people with all his might. The place itself is excellent, the staff are marvelous, and staying there feels like a dream. The service and surroundings are top-notch.

The female manager and other women on staff were diamonds. Their helpfulness and good energy saved the trip, and they apologized that we were put in very basic rooms in the prefab beside the grand hotel. We only ate in the main building or saw it through our window. The young man at the desk on Sunday 14th April seemed annoyed to be interrupted by customers, even though the hotel was basically empty. He was surly, distant and mildly unpleasant the next morning. I’d paid for a double bed, but we got two twins pushed together, which wasn’t very romantic. For one night I could forgive that, because the lakeside setting is beautiful, with herons, geese and the like.