Riessersee Hotel

We LOVED this hotel so much! It exceeded our expectations in just about every category. The location is perfection. It does not get better. The hotel boasts its own lake, mountain views on both sides, and quick hike or drive down to the village of Garmisch. Perched outside the village makes parking a breeze and gives you the atmospheric peace of the Bavarian Alps without actually being remote. My husband described the breakfast buffet as "Palatial." He said it ranks as one of the top three German breakfast experiences he's had. And he's lived in and traveled to Germany for 40 years. We were given a free upgrade on our room, which was such a delight! Two stories with the bedroom on the top floor and the bathroom and sitting area on the entry level. The room comes with a mini fridge for any goodies you pick up in the village and/or any breakfast items you bring back. We had our choice of two delicious restaurants on site. We didn't need reservations for either and were easily seated. The room's robes and flip-flops provided made for a true spa experience. Most importantly, the staff. THE STAFF! They were the greatest!! From our checkin (danke, Sarah) to our check out, they were the most friendly, considerate, and gracious hosts. When I said goodbye and that I really hope to be back soon to stay with them, I **sincerely** meant it. Not just for the room and board but for their company in making us feel like royalty-- no better, they made a couple of Americans feel like family. Danke schön!! We will be returning!

Check in was "crisp" (professional) befitting a four* hotel ... quick. Smiles help break the "ice." Check-out was also very efficient. Very pleasant conversation with F.O. (management level) reflects the "natural" interaction I enjoyed with front desk personnel. The oversized fireplace/lobby was very relaxing. Nice overlook of the city below and of the Zugspitze (when clear). Lots of extras around the facility (family history of the hotel, local historical items, etc.). The openness of the breakfast/dining room (lots of glass). Plenty of maps of the hotel to orient yourself when walking among the various buildings.

We had a wonderful stay at this hotel. The rooms were not only nice but also impeccably clean, making for a very comfortable experience. The location is fantastic, just a 20-minute walk to the city centre, offering scenic views along the way. The breakfast was a delightful start to each day, with a variety of delicious options to choose from. However, the absolute highlight of our stay was the spa. It featured three saunas and a steam room, providing a perfect place to relax and unwind. Overall, it was a memorable experience, and I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a great place to stay.

Ideal for couples with dogs. We went in summer, can't wait to go back in winter. This was a last minute weekend getaway when my wife "didn't want to do anything for her birthday" but then changed her mind the day before. So I was pleasantly surprised this place had availability and made it special for her on short notice. This place is magical. About 1 hour in, after a walk around their lake, we went to reception and asked to extend our reservation one more night! Ridiculously cool view of Zugspitze and the paragliders. The most dog-friendly hotel we've ever stayed in (water bowls everywhere, fresh poop bags, plenty of trash cans and green spaces, allowed most places including in the lake, list of dog-related places around). Great a la carte restaurant with a great view of the lake and mountains. TOP breakfast and coffee! Grounds are immaculate. Staff is heartbreakingly kind and attentive, please be nice to them. The rooms are well laid-out, the amenities are luxurious, bath products are actually hydrating, great water pressure in the shower, comfy beds, spa, pool, great hikes, parking included and easy. It's easiest to drive there since there is a 1.5km road uphill to the property... But at the bottom of the hill is a gorgeous waterfall and the regional train to all the lifts... so it's all really accessible. FYIs- Smokers cannot smoke on room balconies but there are plenty of spaces around the grounds. Respect and protect this place. Read up on the 100+ year history of its family-owned operation when you can (it's on the website). If you visit, be kind and please don't ruin this gem.

Location, friendly nice staff - special thanks to staff in restaurant (& reception) apart from house keeping. Clean pool, saunas. Fantastic half boards. Breakfasts, dinners. Really perfect.