© Hotel Oswald
Landromantik Hotel Oswald: Outdoor pool with dream view
August 28, 2024
Kimmy Fischer
At the Landromantik Hotel Oswald in the Bavarian Forest, both gourmets and wellness enthusiasts will be delighted.
Find a DoctorSearch the network for suitable specialists and contact them directly
In the middle of the Bavarian Forest, in the idyllic village of Kaikenried, lies the family-run Landromantik Hotel Oswald , which is part of the renowned Relais & Châteaux chain. Here, decades of tradition meet modern luxury, creating a feel-good atmosphere that goes far beyond the classic hotel stay.
I was last in the Bavarian Forest 20 years ago with my grandparents. The memories of it are entirely positive, and yet I have not been drawn back here since. Why? I also ask myself this as I arrive at the entrance of Hotel Oswald just in time for sunset.
The color of the sky changes every minute, shifting from a gentle pink to a deep orange. My nervous system immediately calms down, signaling to my head that it can relax. The tension in my body also instantly dissipates, and I note: Only nature .
Upon my arrival, I am personally greeted by a part of the Oswald family. For over 70 years, this family-run business has been in existence. What started in 1950 as a small inn with its own butcher's shop has evolved over the years into a wellness hotel of the highest class. The personal atmosphere can still be felt in every room.
The interior: a mix of Bavarian charm and classical modernity. The atmosphere: elegant yet cozy. Here, one does not only endure but actually feel comfortable. And at the latest, when family dog Traudl, a very headstrong but nonetheless open and sensitive dachshund lady, introduces herself to me with wagging tail, I am smitten.
© Hotel Oswald
The entire house is very tastefully furnished.
Hungry from the journey, my – literally – "first course" leads me to the restaurant area "Mariastube". And even before I can decide on one of the promising gourmet dishes, I am once again left speechless. On a clear day, the breathtaking sunset can also be admired through the large panoramic window in the dining room.
"This is true luxury," I think to myself, and I underscore this statement by spontaneously deciding on a glass of champagne and the linguine with seafood. The house's kitchen stands for excellent regional cuisine and creative enjoyment.
Every evening, guests can look forward to a varied 7-course menu that presents seasonal delicacies at the highest level. But those who prefer something a bit more classic will also find more traditional specialties on the menu, such as Wiener Schnitzel from local beef or a delicate truffle pasta.
However, the highlight is the gourmet parlor. Under the direction of Michelin-starred chef Thomas Gerber, an 8-course menu is served here, which impresses with both tradition and innovation and is accompanied by matched wines from the in-house wine cellar.
© Hotel Oswald/Annette Sandner
Michelin-star cuisine in Oswald's Gourmet Room
The next morning starts slowly, and after an extensive breakfast from the varied buffet, I'm curious to see what awaits me in terms of Wellness On a total of 2500 m², nestled in the picturesque nature of the Bavarian Forest, is the spacious spa area of the Oswald. The harmonious integration of nature and timeless design supports the visual harmony of body and mind.
The offerings are convincing with high-quality and unique treatments. I first opt for the infusion in the salt stone sauna, which, with its mild temperature of 70 degrees, is perfect for me and my sensitive circulation.
The salty vapors clear the airways and are also said to have an antibacterial effect on skin problems. And what can I say? My cyclically conditioned neurodermatitis actually seems to have diminished a bit after the application.
© Hotel Oswald
The wellness offer is exceptionally diverse.
I then unexpectedly encounter my personal highlight. Because normally I count myself among the lovers of warm temperatures. But the concept of the divine snow shower piques my curiosity. During the application, the body is sprayed with fine, powdered snow, which not only serves to cool down after the sauna session but also contributes to the revitalization of the body.
In addition, and this is probably the aspect that appeals to me the most, the feeling of absolute calm and mental clarity sets in. A unique experience that will hopefully have a lasting effect on me.
© Hotel Oswald
The divine snow shower in the spa: Cooling off through permanent snowfall
A little tired but well rested, I spend the rest of the afternoon on the surrounding rooftop terrace, which with its white daybeds and heated outdoor pool, reminds me of an exclusive rooftop club in the South.
Hard to believe that we often think we have to get on a plane or spend hours in the car to discover such places. I make a note: "They exist here too, these small, beautiful spots on earth. Places where time stands still for a moment."
© Hotel Oswald
Tip: Those coming from Munich and the surrounding area who are just looking for a day away from the hustle and bustle of the city can also book a spa day without an overnight stay to get to know and love the many advantages of the unique wellness treatments at Hotel Oswald.
Even if the focus of my stay can probably be placed somewhere between wellness and gusto, I noticed how strongly the surroundings contribute to the feelings we later associate with our time out.
The Bavarian Forest is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled natural landscapes in Germany. It stretches along the border with the Czech Republic and, together with the adjoining Bohemian Forest, forms the largest contiguous forest area in Central Europe.
The nature is characterized by dense forests, picturesque mountain landscapes, and crystal-clear streams and lakes. And when, in the evening, the panorama that surrounds me impresses me deeply once again, I am sure: This time, I will not let 20 years pass until my next visit – of course, with the Oswalds again.
