Chateau d'Urspelt

I spent a day at the spa for my sweetheart’s birthday. It was beautiful, well kept, and welcoming, and we got such a warm reception. Alysson at the front desk was so kind, I won’t forget it. Thank you so much!

Breakfast was one of the better parts: basic continental fare, but amazing bread even by European standards. The coffee, though, is Starbucks branded and comes from a machine. Dinner was just adequate, nothing memorable, and I was glad it was only three courses. Almost every table got an obnoxious sparkler with post dinner champagne, maybe the spectacle distracts from an average meal. The wait staff were some of the rudest I’ve dealt with. Since I’m obviously American, maybe a European visitor would have had a better time. The caves are impressive and fun to explore, especially if you embrace your inner child. They seem built for kids to play in, though children aren’t allowed, so I’m unsure who they’re for. Warmer water or steam in the caverns would make them better for adults. The whirlpool wasn’t hot enough to be therapeutic, more like a wet conversation pit. There’s also a lovely fireplace in the shared sitting area, but it seems nonfunctional and serves as a perch for Christmas ornaments and holiday kitsch. The Himalayan salt wall sits in an open air area, so it offers no therapeutic benefit and seems there for looks and the impression of health. I liked the layout of my superior room with an open bath, and the bath was still fun and romantic, but the standing tub is cheap plastic and loses heat quickly. The walls are so thin my neighbors could hear everything I did that evening. The mattress was cheap and uncomfortable, with one lumpy foam pillow per person. The duvet was nice but far too thick, and my thermostat had a problem, so the night was both too hot and too cold. The bar had a neat atmosphere and pricey drinks. It’s been refinished to look artificially distressed. I’d have preferred some original stonework left visible and enhanced. Nothing feels authentic, and there aren’t other options. There’s no single issue behind the bad stay, but all the compromises and cut corners added up. The developer clearly made an effort, just enough to lure wealthy guests, rather than create a celebration of luxury. It’s surface level luxury for people with more money than taste. For the prices, better and more authentic luxury stays are available elsewhere. In the kids’ words, this place was “mid”.

The spa was a beautiful spot to unwind after a day of exploring. We had a wonderful stay at Château d’Urspelt, with comfortable rooms, a stunning castle, and exceptionally kind, attentive staff.

Hélène and Shania were a huge help throughout our two day corporate event at Château d’Urspelt. They were professional, attentive, and always a step ahead, making everything seamless and enjoyable for everyone. The venue brings historic elegance together with modern comfort, and worked perfectly for productive meetings and team time. A first class experience, highly recommended for corporate or private events.