The Grand Hotel Europa, Innsbruck
Innsbruck, Austria, renowned for its alpine scenery and recreation, gained international recognition as the site of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games and 2012 inaugural Winter Youth Olympic Games.
With a name meaning “bridge over the Inn River”, it is the capital of Tirol, one of Austria’s nine states. It is the gateway to the Brenner Pass, which connects Germany and Italy, and is one of the most important roads through the Alps.
It has one 5-star hotel, The Grand Hotel Europa. Its restaurant is one of the best in the Tirol.
The Grand Europa Hotel
The Grand Hotel Europa is Innsbruck’s only 5-star hotel. It is especially convenient for those traveling by train since it is directly across from the station. Its historic Baroque Hall, built in 1883, is a popular venue for weddings, special events, and conferences.
Not long after the hotel was built in 1869 Bavarian King Ludvig II said “This is the most beautiful location in Innsbruck to celebrate festive events.” Among the subsequent guests are Queen Elizabeth II, the Rolling Stones, and Prince Albert of Monaco.
Elegant, however, does not mean pretentious. Innsbruck is Austria’s fifth largest city but the warm and welcoming nature of its people makes it feel more like a small town. The desk personnel are exceptionally helpful and the energetic General Manager, Roman Straub, is frequently in the lobby or dining room with a friendly greeting, ensuring that everyone feels like a cherished guest.
Our reservation included the bountiful breakfast buffet and dinner in the award-winning Europa Stüberl. One of its cozy rooms has 200 year-old wooden paneling from a Tirolean farmer’s parlor.
Chef Roland Geisberger’s incorporates local products in his creative regional cuisine. Here are a few photographs from our dinner.
