Hardenberg BurgHotel

We first came across this lovely place 15 years ago while driving to Föhr Insel for vacation. The hotel sits below the ruins of a medieval castle, which you can reach on a short hike, and there’s a lovely view of the stables and riding arenas from the restaurant. It’s a great place to stay, with professional, friendly, efficient staff.

We really enjoyed our stay and would happily return, though the price felt about 10% too high. The setting feels rural, but town and the A7 are close by, with lovely walks and scenery around the interesting, beautiful hotel. Rooms are comfortable and well designed, if a little basic. The restaurant was excellent, breakfast fantastic, and I’d book a table during your stay. Since there’s no air conditioning, a suite with a terrace is a good idea so you can open a window.

We came back two years later and found nothing had changed: great location, lovely rooms, excellent food and service. It’s a place with real heart. We’ve stayed at many R&C hotels and often feel like family, but especially so here. Everyone was friendly, and our room looked over the equestrian ring. They even looked after our dog with a lovely bowl and a big, beautiful bed. I loved having Nespresso in the room early, then taking the dog through the forest to the lovely castle ruins. Guests can get access; just ask reception for the keys. Back hungry, we found breakfast didn’t disappoint, with lots of fish, cheeses, meats, spreads and jams. The hotel can arrange a round of golf at the well-kept local course. In the afternoon there’s complimentary coffee, tea, wine or Prosecco by the fire before dinner. Dinner and the wines were great, and my husband especially enjoyed the aged distillery spirits. The menu seems to stay the same for a while, so if you’re there several days, you might ask for recommendations for nice local restaurants.

The surroundings are beautiful, and the hotel is excellent, with a great restaurant and outstanding service. Highly recommended, and worth taking a long detour for.