Journey Through Time: Discovering the Iconic Schloss Lieser on the Mosel
Opulent Hotel Along Moselle River Serves as a Grand Cinema Venue
By Carsten K. Rath More Info Facebook Twitter WhatsApp Email Print Copy Link **Immerse yourself in an enchanting getaway at Schloss Lieser, a captivating retreat nestled in the heart of Mosel Valley, overlooking the ethereal Moselle River and verdant vineyards. **
From the moment I step through its grand gates, I feel the palpable charm that has attracted visitors for centuries. This nineteenth-century castle, expertly restored to its former glory, offers a seamless blend of historic allure and contemporary luxury. **
Vintner's Haven: Home to the Renowned Markus Molitor's Wines
As I check in, my senses are immediately captivated by the region's unique terroir – the steep slopes and slate soil responsible for Mosel wines' distinctive mineral character[1][4]. The castle's very own vineyards embrace this mineral-rich soil, nurturing the exquisite Riesling and Burgundian varietals cultivated by none other than Markus Molitor, the Riesling pope of the Middle Mosel[1][4].
Markus Molitor's wines have garnered international acclaim, with eleven of the 101 esteemed hoteliers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland vying for the chance to savor a taste of his masterpieces during their annual visit to Schloss Lieser[1][5]. **
A Castle Fit for a King: Mystic Neorenaissance and Art Nouveau Boasting a Wine Cellar
Pascal Renk, the castle's warm and welcoming director, greets me upon my arrival[3]. He regales me with the castle's colorful history, peppered with tales of its patriarch, Eduard Puricelli – a once-prosperous Hunsrück entrepreneur with Italian roots[3][4]. Puricelli commissioned the construction of Schloss Lieser in the Neorenaissance style, inspired by classical Italian Palladian villas, before adding an Art Nouveau extension at the turn of the century[3][4].
In addition to its remarkable architectural beauty, Schloss Lieser boasts a private chapel, designed by the devoutly Catholic Puricelli to accommodate frequent masses from the local bishop[4]. Presently, the serene chapel serves as a romantic setting for wedding ceremonies[4]. **
The Spa Experience: Indulgence for All Ages and Tastes
The Puricelli family’s wealth enabled them to construct a lush spa facility, which still stands today as an opulent testament to their luxurious lifestyle[4]. The 800-square-meter spa areas encompass an indoor pool adorned with exquisite marble, a fitness studio, sauna, waterfall, and infrared cabin[4]. The spa continues to embody the sultry, indulgent ambiance that defined the era of its construction[4]. **
Renovation that Honors History: A Symphony Between Past and Present
In 2007, Schloss Lieser was transformed into a luxury hotel housing 34 rooms and 15 suites[3]. The meticulous restoration, spearheaded by Dutch businessman Piet Killaars and his wife, Anja Killaars-Morbach, sought to preserve the historic charm of the castle while integrating modern conveniences[4]. Remnants of the castle's breathtaking interior, such as decorative doors, antique ovens, open hearths, and intricate staircases, remain intact and seamlessly incorporated into the hotel's contemporary design[3][4]. **
Walking through the halls of Schloss Lieser, I am struck by the seamless marriage of antiquity and modernity[4]. The castle's staff – comprising employees from diverse countries like Indonesia, Africa, and the Maldives – exhibit a remarkable command of German and share an unparalleled commitment to excellence[4].
An Invitation to Dine: A Symphony of Flavors
Every evening, the ownership duo, Piet Killaars and Anja Killaars-Morbach, invite the 101 hoteliers to a decadent dinner in one of the hotel’s exquisite dining rooms[5]. Michelin-starred Chef Miljo Weimar crafts a memorable culinary journey with regional delicacies, captivating the senses with his masterful combinations of flavor[4]. This five-star meal is served with Markus Molitor's legendary Rieslings, enhancing the dining experience with an unforgettable harmony of taste[5]. **
During my time at Schloss Lieser, I have been captured by the unyielding warmth and dedication of the staff, the lasting memories forged with fellow guests, and the enchanting embrace of its historic walls[3]. As we dine and share stories beneath the castle's opulent chandeliers, I can't help but feel at home.
Schloss Lieser sits comfortably within the Autograph Collection of the Marriott Hotels, though some may argue for its placement among prestigious hotel groups like Relais & Châteaux or Preferred Hotels[5]. Regardless, Schloss Lieser remains, in my eyes, a timeless sanctuary where memories are made to last a lifetime.
Rath's Travel Rating:
1. Absolute top class2. If only it could always be like this3. High level, with a few minor flaws4. So-so, not oh, la, la5. Better than a hostel6. Express travel warning
"Schloss Lieser"Resort Name: Schloss LieserCountry: GermanyRegion: Middle MoselBest travel time: year-roundTarget airport: Frankfurt am Main (FRA)Transportation: Car or trainTransfer time: Car 1.5 to 2 hours; Train 2 to 2.5 hours, including transfer in Koblenz or TrierRoom price per night: Rooms from around 230 euros per person, suites from around 350 euros per personSpecial recommendation: Awe-inspiring hikes along the Mosel promenade or the Moselsteig, showcasing the diverse landscape, vineyards, and historic sites like Bernkastel-Kues. Wander the narrow alleyways of the town's charming old quarter or explore the historic Gothic cellar of St. Nikolaus Hospital.
About the author: As a former grand hotelier and operator of the most significant hotel ranking in the German-speaking world die-101-besten.com, Carsten K. Rath is a globetrotter by profession. He travels to all the hotels he writes about for ntv at his own expense.
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- The blend of historic allure and contemporary luxury at Schloss Lieser's vocational training programs could provide an enriching lifestyle experience, catering to both seasoned professionals and novices interested in home-and-gardenand travel industries.
- As part of Schloss Lieser's community policy, they offer vocational training in various aspects of hospitality and service, ensuring a continuous commitment to excellence and a sustainable future that echoes the castle's timeless allure.
