Dorint Sporthotel Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Breakfast was the standout for me, probably the best I've had at a hotel. There was plenty to choose from, and the scrambled eggs were restaurant quality, unlike the dry, lumpy eggs I usually avoid. Santa also stopped by with free chocolate Santas, which was a nice touch. The staff were friendly and polite, and made us feel welcome. Our room was spacious and warm, with a great mountain view. The handmade furniture gave it an authentic feel, and the shower was hot and powerful. The bed made my skin itchy, though; putting on a T-shirt stopped it, so maybe the detergent didn't agree with me. The resort's buildings connect through underground tunnels, and the walking paths were ice-free thanks to the maintenance team. It's about a 10-minute walk to the Olympic Park. It was my most relaxing trip of the year, and I'd consider staying here again when we're in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

The kids made good use of both the indoor playroom and the outdoor playground. Our room was large and comfortable, with plenty of space for the family. The facilities aren't new, but they're maintained well, and the staff were friendly and helpful during our stay. Breakfast and dinner buffets were tasty and had a changing selection. Drinks, though, were on the expensive side.

We enjoyed the Alpine view most from the balcony in the afternoons. Our suite was very roomy, and the room itself was clean and comfortable. The older furniture suited the hotel's vintage feel. Breakfast offered a good range, though I would've liked more vegan options. The location works especially well if you have a car; without one, there's a nearby bus stop with hourly service to the city center. One service issue came up when we asked for paper towels. We were told nobody could bring them to the room, so we had to get them ourselves from reception in another building.

The price was okay for what you get, and breakfast was decent, but I wouldn't eat elsewhere in the property. Some salads and cold dishes seemed stale, and the food overall was very average. The head waiter got our booking mixed up and tried to send me away before checking the system, then started arguing with me. He seemed lost, or maybe had had too many beers. Getting to our apartment was a hassle because the entrance to our building was under construction. We had to take the right-hand underground tunnel, a 15-minute detour up and down several flights of stairs. The rooms were very cold, and the heaters only got warm enough just as we were leaving. The TV and facilities were old, and they don't rent rackets for the tennis courts.