By Noura khan
Travel Writer
The Times Kuwait
My recent stay at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in a world of luxury and impeccable service that made my visit truly unforgettable.
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich, often referred to as the ‘Four Seasons’, is steeped in history. Established in 1858 by King Maximilian II of Bavaria, the hotel has long been a symbol of luxury and elegance. Over the decades, it has hosted royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries, cementing its reputation as one of the most prestigious hotels in Europe.
The hotel was built at the behest of King Maximilian II, to provide adequate accommodation for the King’s guests, including empress Elisabeth of Austria. The hotel’s name Vier Jahreszeiten (Four Seasons) has its origin in the fact that it used to be the only hotel to be open during all seasons of the year
The lobby, also known as ‘Munich’s most beautiful living room’, with its heritage-protected glass dome and the afternoon-tea which is served in two courses
As I approached the hotel, located on the prestigious Maximilianstraße, the grand façade immediately caught my eye. The doorman greeted me with a warm smile and promptly assisted with my luggage. Stepping into the lobby, I was struck by the elegance of the decor. Crystal chandeliers, opulent furnishings, and a sophisticated color palette set the tone for my stay.
Check-in was seamless, and I was quickly escorted to my room. I stayed in a junior suite deluxe which was tastefully decorated with a blend of traditional Bavarian charm and modern luxury.
The hotel is ideally situated on Maximilianstraße, one of Munich’s most exclusive shopping streets. This prime location provides guests with easy access to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Bavarian State Opera, the Residenz, and the Marienplatz. The area is also known for its high-end boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
My mornings began with a sumptuous breakfast in the hotel’s elegant breakfast room. The buffet featured a wide array of options, from freshly baked pastries to local cheeses and charcuterie, ensuring a delightful start to each day.
The Kempinski Spa was a sanctuary of relaxation. Located on the top floor, it offered stunning panoramic views of Munich. I spent a leisurely afternoon enjoying the indoor pool and indulging in a rejuvenating massage. The therapists were skilled, and the treatment left me feeling completely relaxed and refreshed.
The hotel’s prime location made it easy to explore Munich. With the Marienplatz and the Bavarian State Opera just a short walk away, I immersed myself in the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The concierge provided excellent recommendations for local attractions and dining, ensuring I made the most of my visit.
Also, when you enter the hotel, you will definitely see the luxurious and elegant perfume shop that is a destination for the world’s rich and famous actors and businessmen. Have you ever heard about Krigler perfume?
Sir Albert Crigler, a Berlin-born chemist, created his first perfume, Pleasure Gardenia 79, in 1879 for the Crigler company. Fascinated by the art of perfumery, he opened a perfume factory in 1904 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and began creating perfumes.
He moved his perfume factory to Berlin for a short period, then settled in the south of France in 1909. Along the way, he gained fame and high-profile clients, including royals and European film stars. In the 1930s, Krigler perfumes were sold at the Plaza Hotel in New York City, Kriglers perfume clients included such Hollywood stars as Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly and F. Scott Fitzgerald.
My stay at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich was an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bavarian luxury. From the elegant accommodations and exquisite dining to the relaxing spa and outstanding service, every aspect of my visit exceeded my expectations. It is a place where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, offering guests an unparalleled experience in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 54k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
