The Starnbergsee Hideaway

The reception team were welcoming and always ready to help. Our room looked out over the lake, and both saunas were good: the regular one heated up well and had a beautiful lake view, while the infrared sauna was in great condition. Breakfast and service were a real letdown for a five-star hotel. The selection was very limited, some food was expired, and when the buffet ran out nobody refilled it or was available to answer questions. We had to ask reception to contact the kitchen for even basic things. The breakfast staff either didn’t speak English or were rude, including asking, “why do you want extra cheese” when there was no cheese left. There was also a strong sewage smell in the hallway. The food and service standards were disappointing.

The hotel makes a beautiful first impression from outside, and it’s in a lovely spot by the lake with wonderful views. Our first room was spacious and gorgeous, but clearly hadn’t been cleaned: food was left on the table, the bed was unmade, and the condition was unacceptable. When we told reception, the staff apologized and moved us to a clean room, though it wasn’t as impressive as the first. We asked whether the original room could be cleaned, and even offered to pay extra because it wasn’t the type we’d booked. They said the cleaning company couldn’t come back that day. We got several apologies and assurances they’d make it up to us, but nothing beyond words was offered. At check-in there had also been no receptionist at the desk, so we waited several minutes. There was no minibar or room service, the room felt rather cold in the evening, and we noticed insects in the bathroom. The hotel is beautiful and has great potential, but housekeeping and service need to be taken more seriously.

We stayed between Christmas and New Year with my husband and our one-year-old son, and had a perfect visit. The location is amazing, and everyone was attentive and looked after our needs. Some reviews had made me hesitate, but I contacted the hotel manager beforehand and she kindly addressed my concerns. I highly recommend giving it a chance!

The lakefront setting beside the Starnberger See is lovely, and the hotel has a charming boutique feel. Interiors and decor are tasteful, with thoughtful little details. Our suite was spacious, had high ceilings and lots of daylight. You can swim straight from the lakeside when temperatures allow. The pier is open to the public and gets popular on warm summer days. Hotel guests can use sunbeds on the lawn, and there’s plenty of accessible parking. Lunch and dinner at the restaurant come with higher-than-average menu prices. What stood out most was the team: friendly, approachable, and accommodating. Sergio in the breakfast room remembered each guest’s preferences, and Winnie was very sweet about requests for summer bedding and gluten-free options. We had a pleasant stay and would recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable place.