Hotel Erbprinz - Gourmet & Spa

This hotel offers a luxurious and memorable experience, distinguished by its exceptional spa and wellness area and outstanding cuisine, making it a true destination for relaxation and culinary delight. Its historic character is beautifully preserved, blending traditional elegance with modern comforts. The hotel is an ideal fit for leisure travelers and couples seeking a tranquil escape with fine dining and pampering, as well as for business travelers who appreciate comfortable accommodations and attentive service. Families are also welcomed, finding the hotel's amenities and central location convenient. To enhance your stay, consider booking restaurant reservations in advance, especially for the acclaimed dining options, and inquire about rooms in the newer sections or with air conditioning if visiting during warmer months.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's spa and wellness area are consistently highlighted as a major draw, described as beautiful, modern, and an oasis of peace. Guests enjoy a spacious pool that is often noted for its comfortable temperature, along with various saunas, a steam room, and relaxation areas designed for rejuvenation. A well-equipped gym is available for those wishing to maintain their fitness routine. Guests appreciate the thoughtful touches within the spa, such as complimentary tea, coffee, and fruit. While free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel, some guests report occasional weakness in certain areas. A distinctive smoking lounge with a wide selection of spirits is also a notable amenity, offering a unique atmosphere for some guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be exceptionally clean and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant stay. The comfortable beds and high-quality mattresses are frequently praised, ensuring a restful night's sleep for most visitors. Room decor varies, with some guests appreciating the stylish and modern design of renovated rooms, while others describe a more traditional or even dated aesthetic in older sections. A common point of feedback relates to noise levels; some rooms, particularly those facing the train line or internal courtyards, can experience disturbances from trains, celebrations, or hotel operations, though many guests report quiet stays. The availability of air conditioning is not universal, which can be a concern during hot weather, though fans are sometimes provided. Bathrooms are typically spacious and well-appointed, though some single rooms feature smaller layouts.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives widespread acclaim, particularly the breakfast buffet, which many guests describe as outstanding and one of the best they have encountered. It offers an extensive variety of high-quality and delicious options, including fresh juices, pastries, and unique local specialties. The hotel is home to a Michelin-starred restaurant that consistently delivers exceptional cuisine and attentive service, providing a memorable fine dining experience. Additional dining venues, such as the Weinstube and a charming café/patisserie, are also highly regarded for their excellent food, including delectable cakes and chocolates. Overall, guests praise the tasteful presentation and fresh ingredients across all culinary offerings, making dining a highlight of their stay.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in Ettlingen, offering convenient access to the town's attractions. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of the pedestrian zone, the castle, various shops, and numerous restaurants, making exploration effortless. Its proximity to a tram stop is a significant advantage, providing easy and quick public transportation links to Karlsruhe and other surrounding areas, which is particularly beneficial for both business and leisure travelers. While the hotel is situated near a train line, many guests report that the noise from passing trains is minimal and does not significantly disturb their stay. Parking is available on-site, offering convenience for those traveling by car, though a daily fee is typically applied.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the warm welcome extended by the reception team, noting their helpfulness and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable stay. The staff are commended for their ability to accommodate special requests, such as dietary needs or room preferences, with efficiency and a positive attitude. While the check-in and check-out processes are generally smooth, some guests have noted instances of staff being overwhelmed during peak times. Service in the hotel's restaurants and bar is also frequently mentioned as being attentive and knowledgeable, contributing to a highly positive overall guest experience where many feel personally valued and well-cared for.

Additional Information
The hotel is celebrated for its distinctive historic character, successfully blending traditional elegance with modern amenities following renovations. It operates as a family-run hotel, which many guests feel contributes to its unique charm and personalized service. A notable feature is its pet-friendly policy, allowing guests to bring their dogs, which is appreciated by animal owners. The hotel also offers a dedicated cigar lounge, providing a specific space for smoking enthusiasts, though some guests are sensitive to the lingering scent in adjacent communal areas. The on-site patisserie is a particular highlight, renowned for its exceptional cakes and chocolates, offering a delightful treat for guests. The hotel's layout, having evolved through various additions, can be somewhat intricate, but this adds to its unique appeal.