Once again this year, Falstaff TRAVEL readers and a jury of experts selected the best hotels in Austria, Germany, Switzerland and South Tyrol. Over 1,200 hotels, spread across four countries, made it into the best lists this year. Almost 340 hotels were able to top their score from last year and 120 hotels were newly included in the ranking. In addition to the top 10 hotels in each country, the winners were chosen in the categories "Family", "Spa", "Design", "Gourmet", "City", "Sustainability & Innovation", "Ski", "Chalet" and "Best New Opening". In addition, the "Hoteliers of the Year" and formative figures in the hotel industry were honored for their "life's work". As individual and unique as the individual hotels are, they all have one thing in common: travelers can look forward to relaxing vacation moments at the best addresses.

For the first time this year, the most exclusive hotels of the year appeared in separate guides and are available in print and digital editions from the Falstaff TRAVEL online store.

Austria

The Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol is an alpine institution. Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol

Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol

Telfs, interalpen.com
Excellent : 100 | 100 points 

The spacious luxury hotel awaits discerning guests at 1,300 meters above sea level. While they swim towards the impressive mountain world in the panoramic pool, everyday life doesn't stand a chance. Stress seems to fall away with every breath, and these moments of well-being are intensified by expert spa treatments, saunas, fitness and yoga. A whole 5,300 square meters are dedicated to wellness here. Gourmet fans can look forward to incomparable moments of indulgence. The culinary journey takes you around the world, but of course Austrian classics are also on the menu. Top: High quality, sustainability and genuine hospitality are emphasized in all aspects.

Germany

The Fontenay in Hamburg took top marks this year. © provided

The Fontenay Hotel Hamburg

Hamburg, thefontenay.com
Excellent: 100 | 100 points

If you're looking for a hotel in Germany where everything is just right, you can't go past "The Fontenay", which opened in 2018. After all, not only is its location in a spacious park on the banks of the Outer Alster and within walking distance of the city's sights, stores and restaurants a dream, but also the cosmopolitan ambience of the modern city resort. Designed by local architect Jan Störmer, the hotel is home to elegant rooms and suites - some with views of the Alster - as well as a wonderful spa. During a treatment or in the infinity pool with its unique panorama, you feel more like you are in an oasis than on the outskirts of a city of millions. The "Lakeview" offers two-star dining on the banks of the Alster.

Switzerland

The Alpina Gstaad personifies luxury like no other. © provided

The Alpina Gstaad

Gstaad, thealpinagstaad.ch
Excellent: 100 | 100 points

This discreet and individual hideaway in the Alps is impressive across the board. Firstly, there is the location, which can confidently be described as "breathtaking". The noble house is situated on a mountainside overlooking the village. The spectacular Alpine panorama is impressive all around. On the other hand, guests can also look forward to flights of fancy in culinary terms. The four first-class restaurants, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Martin Göschel, offer delicacies from classic international cuisine, served with great attention to detail. The Six Senses Spa, on the other hand, is dedicated to providing first-class wellness and well-being moments - and lives up to this claim day after day.

Northern Italy

Forestis offers sophisticated design and top-tier cuisine. © Forestis

FORESTIS Dolomites

Brixen, forestis.it
Excellent: 100 | 100 points

High up on the Plose, the FORESTIS is enthroned amidst green forests and imposing mountains in a real power spot in the Dolomites. Opened just a few years ago, it has since become a popular hideaway for discerning couples. They appreciate the hotel for its unusual design, its focus on peace and privacy and its commitment to the highest quality. The hotel meets these standards at all levels; the cuisine is particularly noteworthy in this respect. With respect for tradition and with
A lot of creativity goes into creating delicious menus that bring nature indoors as the main protagonist. The spa promises special moments of pampering with its professional treatments and wonderful pools.