Maison Messmer - A member of the Hommage Luxury Hotels Collection ★★★★★

Stepping into the spacious reception with high ceilings and a grand carpeted central staircase is almost like boarding a lavish cruise ship. We were welcomed by the smiley and friendly staff and after a smooth and easy check-in headed to our rooms. With soft, carpeted floor, charming furnishings, a roomy bed, and plenty of natural light, it was a perfectly cosy cocoon. We even had an exclusive view over Baden-Baden’s spa park, Kurpark.

In the Theaterkeller restaurant, the magnificent open-show kitchen serves up Badian and Alsatian specialities such as the tarte flambée or flammkeuch in theatrical surroundings, being placed opposite the theatre. The restaurant was rustic and romantic with a whimsical air about it; theatre masks were dotted about the tables, deep red curtains lined the windows, and elegant furnishings finished off the look. Our meal was accompanied by a succulent wine that warmed our hearts and lulled us into a drowsy late evening. From there we headed to the Kaminbar which means “fireside bar”, for a little nightcap before bed. In the morning, The Brasserie, with its bright atmosphere, was a delightful place for breakfast, and the buffet spread featured a large range of choice.

For a day dedicated to being pampered from head to toe with the Black Forest as the backdrop we headed to the spa, which was wonderfully decorated in tiles and mosaics, and dimly lit for a laid-back atmosphere. We started with the Laconium, a traditional Roman steam bath that is heated to 45 degrees then moved on to the Finnish sauna, heated up to 85 degrees! We then braved the cold ice fountain, before soaking in the warm waters of the pool and hot tub. Other facilities included a wellness room, sun beds and infrared cabin. Booked in for facials and massages we headed to our dedicated cabins to zone out, allowing the natural ingredients and skilful hands of the staff to revitalise our bodies and faces.

Baden-Baden translates as Bathe-Bathe and it was that exact double dose of bathing; in waters, steam and indulgent luxury in which we revelled!