Grand Hotel Elisabeth re-opens in Bad Ischl, echoing the legacy of Empress Elisabeth, also known as "Sissi"
Nestled in the heart of the historic Austrian spa town of Bad Ischl, the Grand Elisabeth hotel opens its doors, honoring the legacy of Empress Elisabeth – fondly known as Sisi. Located on Tänzlgasse 6, adjacent to the Congress and Theatre House and the picturesque Kurpark, the hotel occupies a prime location, appealing to both culture enthusiasts and business travelers.
Drawing inspiration from Sisi's life and image, the Grand Elisabeth boasts a classical style with avant-garde touches, evoking the spirit of the rebellious, tattooed empress while celebrating her modernity, independence, and strength. Despite the absence of kitsch found in Sissi films elsewhere in the hotel, it pays homage to the empress through an impressive original film carriage in the lobby and a hall library filled with books about her life.
Paying heed to Sisi's emphasis on beauty and wellness, the "Organic Alps Spa by Dorissima" offers facial and bath treatments using products from the Bad Ischl spa pharmacy, including special bath salt mixtures and creams created for Empress Elisabeth, still produced according to the original recipes. The hotel also features body treatments from the Organic Alps line by multiply-awarded spa brand DORISSIMA, emphasizing naturalness, veganism, and modernity. Two saunas and an indoor pool complement the spa offerings, and a fitness studio encourages guests to adopt Sisi's disciplined approach to fitness and healthy eating.
Chef Daniel Gschwandtner reinterprets some of Sisi's favorite dishes, offering modern takes on classic Salzkammergut dishes like Tafelspitz, Backhendl, alongside new dishes such as vegan Malanzani beef tartare and whole roasted cauliflower. The "Grand Liberté" restaurant serves these dishes in a setting free of artificial pretension and offers a relaxed atmosphere that encourages guests to indulge and enjoy life to the fullest, as Sisi did. The hotel is also home to the renowned Zauner confectionery, famous since the imperial era, with a "To Go" shop offering delicacies like the world-famous Zaunerstollen, Ischler tortes, and Grand Elisabeth signature pralines.
The evening begins in the Violet Hour bar, which serves the signature violet spritz, inviting guests to let time flow freely while enjoying a relaxed aperitivo. Carriage rides on Empress Sisi's favorite routes, along with hiking trails, allow guests to immerse themselves in the cultural and natural splendor of Bad Ischl. The hotel aims to serve as a modern homage to the empress, providing guests with a luxurious experience rooted in Austria’s imperial past while offering a gateway to the town's enduring appeal.
Experience the luxurious home-and-garden ambiance at the Grand Elisabeth, where the Organic Alps Spa mirrors Empress Elisabeth's emphasis on beauty and wellness.
Embark on a travel adventure to the Violet Hour bar, savoring the signature violet spritz as you recreate Sisi's leisurely evenings in the heart of Bad Ischl.
