Berghotel Tulbingerkogel - Mauerbach, Austria     

We stayed here for a few days of forest walks after sightseeing in Vienna, and can recommend the combination. The hotel isn't easy to find, especially in darkness, because Austrian road signage isn't Europe's best, though the hotel is reasonably large and prominent in open countryside. It is an old-fashioned establishment run by three generations of the family, including the wonderful patriarch who will come and chat in impeccable English. The rooms are large and very well-appointed and all have spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. There are excellent spa and pool facilities, including an open-air pool which generates some sounds of merriment at the weekend, all however at an end by a respectable hour in the evening, Austrian-style. The restaurant has an extensive menu and the half-pension menu, which changes daily, is extremely good value; our only reservation was the amount of exercise needed to walk it off the next day! The wine list, endorsed by Robert Parker, is one of the most extensive we've ever seen; most items are extremely (though justifiably) pricey, but some real modestly-priced gems are hidden away if you look carefully.

Just returned from a 3 night stay at the Tulbingerkogel. Took us quite a while to find the hotel but it was well worth it. Tucked away on the hill top, overlooking the Vienna Woods, the hotel presents an oasis of peace and calm, with breathtaking views across the countryside. Although not luxurious inside, the decor was warm, tasteful and spotlessly clean - as were our bedrooms. Travelling with two small children, we booked a 2 room suite and were delighted to find that the children had their own bathroom, TV and minibar. The restaurant was excellent, with a feast of gourmet dishes and fine wines; and we were served by an extremely nice waitor who explained everything to us in English. We dined outside and the view made the meal even more special - especially when the children disappeared to the play area. However, the best part of the hotel, for us, had to be the health spa, with a beautiful heated outdoor pool (again overlooking the woods) sauna and solarium. This hotel is steeped in history - and the photographs that line the walls of the hotel prove it, with many famous guests giving it their endorsement over the years. Due to its rural location, a car is essential, as is a good map of the Vienna area!!! However it is a good base for exploring the Vienna countryside and is only a short drive away from the city centre (when you know where you are going!). Our only regret is that we didn't stay for longer.