A Historic Spa Town: Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein, nestled in the Salzburg Alps, is synonymous with breathtaking nature and healing springs. This location, popular as a spa destination since the 19th century, fascinates with a unique combination of alpine landscape and historic Belle Époque architecture. The thermal springs have been known for their healing properties for centuries, attracting visitors from around the world.
Arrival at Badeschloss Hotel Est. 1791: A Journey into the Past
The Badeschloss in Bad Gastein, opened in winter 2023, is an impressive example of the restoration of historic buildings. Originally built as a luxurious residence for the nobility and upper class, the castle now shines anew. Originally built in 1791, it has welcomed many notable personalities over time. The hotel now offers 102 rooms and suites, housed in a historic Badeschloss and a modern new building tower. These spaces reflect the diverse facets of bathing culture.
Guests of the hotel can enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, whether it’s the view into the wild nature or the historic Straubingerplatz with the Straubinger Grand Hotel. A special highlight is the three-story rooftop spa and the rooftop infinity outdoor pool with a view over the Gastein Valley. More on that later.
The Rooms: A Combination of Tradition and Modernity
Upon our arrival, our room is already prepared. Each of the rooms in the Badeschloss is uniquely designed, merging historical elements with modern comfort. High-quality beds, modern bathrooms with rain showers, and exclusive care products provide the highest comfort. We are accommodated in the historic part and have a view of the Straubinger Hotel and the Gastein Valley.
Before exploring the hotel, however, we want to get an overview of Bad Gastein.
Kaiser-Wilhelm-Promenade: A Historic Walk
For this, we recommend a walk along the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Promenade. This promenade, named after Emperor Wilhelm I, is a historic path lined with magnificent villas and hotels from the Belle Époque. The path leads past the place, through the forest, and eventually ends in the Kötschachtal.
For those seeking a better view of the town, we recommend the path “above” the promenade, starting just about 100 meters to the right of the Badeschloss.
An Evening in the Outdoor Pool
Returning to the Badeschloss after a chilly walk, we warmed up in the exceptional outdoor pool. Integrated into the natural rock landscape, the heated refuge offers clear mountain air and a view of the stars above the Alps, creating an almost magical experience.
The pool is open from 7:30 am to 9:30 pm.
Dinner at Badeschloss
The Restaurant Auntie Heidi in the Badeschloss serves a mix of regional and international cuisine for dinner, including options like Auntie’s Shepherds Pie and Auntie’s Favorite Catch, a unique dish of trout with almonds, grapes, and orange.
Dinner hours are from 6:00 pm to 9:30 pm.
A Day on the Slopes: Skiing at Stubnerkogel
The next morning, after a delicious breakfast featuring local specialties, we set off for Stubnerkogel. The ski rental shop near the parking area made it easy to find the right equipment. The ski rental is conveniently located, and the ski area in Bad Gastein offers slopes for all levels.
A must-visit in Bad Gastein is the suspension bridge at Stubnerkogel, the highest of its kind in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Alpine panorama.
Relaxation at Badeschloss: Wellness and Sauna
After an exciting day on the slopes, the Badeschloss provides the perfect setting for relaxation. The wellness facilities include various saunas, a steam bath, and a panoramic sauna offering unparalleled views of the snow-covered peaks. The spa offers a range of treatments tailored to individual needs, from relaxing massages to revitalizing scrubs.
Conclusion and New Beginnings
After another night in the luxurious chambers of the Badeschloss, we start the day with a rich breakfast. The breakfast at the Badeschloss in Bad Gastein is diverse and healthy, featuring traditional favorites and superfoods. Our journey in Bad Gastein continues with a wealth of experiences, as we move our stay to the opposite side of Straubingerplatz. Join us on our discovery tour and learn more in our detailed report on the Straubinger Grand Hotel by Travel Charme.
