Savoring Elegance at the Palace-like Hotel Schloss Lieser
An Exquisite Stay in Germany's Wine-Rich Middle Mosel Region
By Carsten K. Rath Whatsapp Email Print Copy Link
Exclusive Moselle Hotel Doubles as a Grand Movie Theater
As a native from the region, the allure of the spectacular Hotel Schloss Lieser always calls me back home. Situated beside the vineyards with the Mosel River in sight, this opulent establishment imbues a dreamy ambiance, brimming with nostalgia.
From the moment I arrive, I feel a sense of belonging. The steep slopes and mineral-rich schist soil, distinctive to this region, enchant me—giving the Mosel wines their exquisite character. This unique terrain is also the perfect canvas for the celebrated winemaker Markus Molitor, also known as the "Riesling pope." He cultivates an array of Riesling and Burgundy varieties, spanning more than 25 steep slopes, many of which are Grand Cru. His masterpieces are internationally acclaimed and kept in high regard.
The wines of Markus Molitor are the reason behind my visit to Schloss Lieser. Gaspped by 101 hoteliers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, the prestigious group samples from one of his elegantly crafted barrels during a tasting at his winery.
A Fairytale Castle with Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau Charm
"Schloss Lieser" also boasts its own winery, Director Pascal Renk shares warmly as he greets me upon check-in. Every week, exclusive wine tastings unfold in the vineyard cellar, orchestrated by a local winemaker, and accentuated by delectable delicacies prepared by the castle's culinary team.
During my journey to my accommodations, owner Anja Killaars-Morbach regales me with the colorful history of the palace. Eduard Puricelli, an entrepreneur with Italian roots, had it built in the Neo-Renaissance style from 1884 to 1887. The designs mirrored classical Italian Palladian villas from the 16th and 17th centuries. Soon after moving in, Puricelli commenced planting vines on the surrounding hills, setting the foundation for the winery of Schloss Lieser as it stands today.
Even a chapel with a dedicated connection to the Roman Catholic Church was constructed by Puricelli. Stories persistent of the Bishop of Trier visiting to hold masses for the family. Today, the chapel serves as a tranquil location for couples to exchange their vows. Passing by this resplendent setting, it's no wonder it feels like something out of a fairy tale.
Pampering in the Five-Star Spa
The Puricelli family was among the wealthiest in Germany during their time. Money was never a constraint when creating the pampering spa shallows in marble. This luxurious amenity still adorns the 800-square-meter facility, also featuring a fitness studio, a mesmerizing pool, saunas, waterfall, and infrared cabin—all embodiments of a five-star spa experience, in my humble opinion.
Around the turn of the century, Puricelli's daughter Maria and her husband, the Prussian official Dr. Clemens Freiherr von Schorlemer-Lieser, expanded the castle with an Art Nouveau extension. The harmonious fusion of these two architectural styles is present throughout the castle's rooms and suites.
The Castle's Historic Charm Preserved
In 2007, Dutch businessman Piet Killaars and his wife Anja Killaars-Morbach acquired Schloss Lieser, meticulously breathing new life into it as a luxury hotel with 34 rooms and 15 suites. Director Pascal Renk reveals how carefully the renovation was designed to preserve the historical charm—incorporating original interior features like doors, fireplaces, open fireplaces, and staircases from Puricelli's time, to retain the essence of the castle.
A Haven in a Bygone Era
My suite remains imbued with the spirit of yesteryears. The warm wood paneling and silk-draped walls conveys an elegant and luxurious atmosphere. Notable visitors like Elon Musk and Reinhold Messner, among others, have rest in the same chambers, sharing in the view overlooking the Mosel and the Hunsrück. As I gaze out the window, memories of my childhood resurface—a time when my father taught me to waterski in these very waters.
An Evening Among International Company
In the evening, the hotel's owners invite the select band of 101 hoteliers to dinner in one of the grand salons. Host Miljo Weimar reigns in the restaurant "Puricelli," offering a culinary experience reminiscent of regional flavors. Tonight, Weimar presents an extraordinary four-course menu, featuring lobster, asparagus, leek cream soup, and Tournedos Rossini. In lieu of wines from their own vineyard, the meal is accompanied by selections from the esteemed Markus Molitor.
Earlier in the day, the 101 hoteliers sampled five exquisite Molitor wines straight from the barrel during an exclusive tasting. After much debate, the "2023 Wehlener Klosterberg Pinot Blanc" was chosen as the first official "101 Hoteliers' Wine Choice." Available through the partner hotels of the 101 Best from November, the wine will be limited to 1111 magnum bottles.
During dinner, I find myself once again captivated by the attentiveness of the staff. A waitress hailing from South Africa brings an irresistible warmth to the evening. Hotel director Pascal Renk has enlisted employees from various exotic locations, including Indonesia, Africa, and the Maldives—all speaking impeccable German, focused, and sharp. Their commitment mirrors the dedication of the director.
This multicultural composition, an anomaly in my hometown expectations, is equally reflective of our society's openness and the modern management of the estate. One question persists in my mind, however: "Schloss Lieser" belongs to the "Autograph Collection" of the Marriott group—a membership that seems slightly unexpected to me. But that's a minor detail. Schloss Lieser feels like a second home to me—one I look forward to visiting again and again.
Carsten K. Rath's Travel Rating:
- An Unforgettable Masterpiece
- A Regal Retreat
- A Stupendous Blend of Old & New
- A Rich Tapestry of Charm
- A Relaxing Oasis for the Soul
Hotel Information:
Hotel Name: Schloss Lieser
Country: Germany
Region: Middle Mosel
Best Travel Time: Year-round
Target Airport: Frankfurt am Main (FRA)
Transfer Means: Car or Train
Transfer Time: Car 1.5 to 2 hours; Train 2 to 2.5 hours, including transfer in Koblenz or Trier
Room Price per Night: Rooms from around 230 euros per person, suites from around 350 euros per person
Special Recommendation: Embrace the natural beauty of the Mosel wine region by hiking along the Mosel promenade or the Moselsteig—exploring vineyards and historic sites like Bernkastel-Kues. Wander through its historic old town, marvel at the St. Nikolaus Hospital's wine cellar, or simply stroll and soak in the diverse surroundings.
About the Author: As the former grand hotelier and the operator of the most respected hotel ranking in the German-speaking world—die-101-besten.com—Carsten K. Rath has traveled extensively to write about his experiences with hotels for ntv. He assumes the costs of all his travels himself.
Source: ntv.de
- The community policy of the Hotel Schloss Lieser, nestled in Germany's Middle Mosel region, could incorporate vocational training programs for home-and-garden and travel industries, offering the staff the opportunity to hone their skills in these areas.
- After a day of exploring the vineyards and learning about the vineyard's history, one could unwind in the five-star spa, savoring a lifestyle that reflects a bygone era—an elegant blend of Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau charm—while appreciating the internationally acclaimed wines produced by Markus Molitor.
