Explorer Hotel Berchtesgaden

The staff were polite and helpful, and breakfast was excellent, with a self-serve omelet station and plenty of fresh bread, cheese, meat, yoghurt, and fruit. The hotel itself is very basic and aimed at budget stays. Our mattress wasn’t great: the vinyl cover made it hot and uncomfortable, and there were no spare pillows. After a long day we were looking forward to the dpa, but it wasn’t working.

The room was good, the cleaning staff were friendly, and the location and view were nice. The club sandwich was good and a decent size, but the kebab sandwich and spaghetti portions were small and cost more than meals at local places. The food seemed preheated, and coffee and tea were weak and cost 4.80 each. The menu said coffee and tea were included with the room pass, so being charged extra at checkout felt like mismanagement. We paid almost 1400 for 8 nights with our dog and breakfast, and this shouldn’t have been a surprise. They should adjust the price and make it clear when these drinks aren’t free, perhaps with a sign beside them. The staff themselves really tried and did their best, so I can’t blame them. Still, there were all sorts of management problems that need fixing.

There’s a bus stop right outside, and the lake is only a short walk away. The hotel seems made for people who travel for adventure. Our room was simple, but clean, bright, open, and had lots of storage and charging options. The breakfast was great, with a fun egg station. The sauna facilities were amazing for a room at this price.

We slept well, and I don’t understand the complaints about hard beds. In a place geared toward sports and hiking, they were great for supporting sore muscles. The spa and sauna are a lovely extra, included in the price. The hotel was clean and modern, with parking on the property, and the location was great. Staff were friendly, hardworking, and helpful, and didn’t mind speaking English with expats. Dogs are welcomed and adored. Breakfast included vegan options and local produce, and there was also a thoughtful vegan choice at dinner. We had a perfect stay and will definitely choose this place again.