The Enchanting Allure of Schloss Lieser, the Pearl of the Moselle
This lavish Moselle hotel functions as a large-scale cinema establishment.
Written by Carsten K. Rath | More Info | Facebook | Twitter | WhatsApp | Email | Print | Copy Link
This piece takes you on an enchanting journey to Schloss Lieser, nestled in the heart of Germany's Moselle region. As I walk through its majestic doors, I feel a rush—a primal connection to the striking landscape that surrounds me.
Upon my arrival, I am greeted by hotel director, Pascal Renk, who takes me on a historical tour of this striking castle. With every step I take, I'm reminded of its rich past and the dedicated restoration that enables me to enjoy its exquisite canvas of luxury and comfort.
A Wine Lover's Paradise
The Moselle region is renowned for Riesling, and the wines from Markus Molitor, the "Riesling Pope of the Middle Mosel," are a significant reason for my visit. With over 25 steep slopes of slate soil, many of them Grand Cru, Markus cultivates a variety of Burgundian and Riesling grapes. His masterfully crafted wines are hushed whispers that reverberate through the global wine scene.
Every year, 11 hoteliers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland gather to taste Markus Molitor's captivating creations. I am fortunate enough to be in his presence, as he opens exclusive barrels and shares the essence of his beloved wines with us.
A Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau Marvel
Schloss Lieser possesses an extraordinary blend of architectural styles, making it a captivating sight for guests like me. The castle was built by Eduard Puricelli, an Italian-rooted Hunsrück entrepreneur, in the neo-Renaissance style between 1884 and 1887. It stands as a testament to the architectural fusion of classical Italian villas and the Palladian style. Along with the original castle, a striking Art Nouveau annex was added under the direction of architect Carl Weber in 1899.
A Symphony of Harmonious Blends
The interior of Schloss Lieser is a harmonious blend of intricate craftsmanship and comfortable luxury. The castle's owner, Piet Killaars, and his wife, Anja Killaars-Morbach, have seamlessly juxtaposed pieces of Schloss Lieser's storied past with stylish modern touches during its 2007 renovation. Remnants of the castle's original design, such as doors, ovens, open fireplaces, and staircases, gracefully coexist in the updated atmosphere.
The Enthralling Allure of My Room
My room stands as a tribute to the era when Schloss Lieser thrived in its previous existence. Wooden panels, silk-covered walls, and elegant furnishings weave a captivating story of the castle's history. Luminaries such as Elon Musk and Reinhold Messner have graced its presence and marveled at the stunning views over the Moselle River and the Hunsrück hills.
An Authentic Culinary Experience
The restaurant "Puricelli" offers an enticing culinary experience to guests, featuring classical dishes crafted by talented chef Miljo Weimar. Freshest ingredients and rich flavors make each meal a delightful culinary adventure.
Unforgettable Experiences Await
As I bid Schloss Lieser farewell, I feel a profound connection to this remarkable castle that transcends time. A sense of adventure and memories to last a lifetime permeate my mind, and I am already eager to return to this enchanted haven.
My Room Still Breathes the Spirit of Past DaysMy room still breathes the spirit of past days. It is paneled in wood, with silk on the walls, elegantly and luxuriously furnished. Elon Musk and Reinhold Messner have already spent the night here and enjoyed the view from the window over the Moselle and the Hunsrück hills. When I look out of my window, childhood memories are awakened. My father taught me water skiing here, where the Moselle is particularly wide.
Diversity in the Province
In the evening, the owners of the hotel, Piet Killaars and Anja Killaars-Morbach, invited the 101 hoteliers to dinner in one of the beautiful salons. Chef Miljo Weimar creates classical cuisine with regional products in the restaurant "Puricelli". Today, he serves an outstanding four-course menu with lobster, asparagus, garlic cream soup, and Tournedos Rossini. While the "Puricelli" usually serves wines from its own estate, today's menu is accompanied by wines from Markus Molitor.
In the afternoon, the 101 hoteliers tasted five high-class Molitor wines directly from the barrel in an exclusive wine tasting. After an intensive discussion, the "2023 Wehlener Klosterberg Pinot Blanc" was crowned the first official "101 Hoteliers' Wine Choice". It is limited to 1111 magnum bottles and will be available through the partner hotels of the 101 Best from November.
During dinner, I am once again reminded of how attentive the team at the hotel is. A waitress in the breakfast service comes from South Africa, speaks excellent German, and delights me with her warmth. Hotel director Pascal Renk has recruited many employees from exotic countries, from Indonesia, Africa, the Maldives. All speak very good German, are focused and competent. And they embody the drive and enthusiasm of the director.
I appreciate this diversity, which, as a Moselle native, I would not have expected in the province. This colorful picture in "Schloss Lieser" also reflects our society, its openness to the world and the modern management of the house.
Only one thing puzzles me: "Schloss Lieser" belongs to the "Autograph Collection" of the Marriott group, while for me, associations like Relais & Châteaux or Preferred Hotels would have fit better. But that's just a side note. Schloss Lieser is like a second home to me, which I will certainly visit again.
Rath's Travel Rating:
1. Absolute top2. If only it could always be like this3. High level, with a few minor weaknesses4. So-so, not oh, la, la5. Better than in a hostel6. Explicit travel warning
"Schloss Lieser" Resort Name:Schloss LieserCountry: GermanyRegion: Middle MoselleBest travel time: year-roundTarget airport: Frankfurt am Main (FRA)Transportation: Car or trainTravel time: Car 1.5 to 2 hours; train 2 to 2.5 hours, including transfer in Koblenz or TrierRoom price per night: Rooms from around 230 euros per person, suites from around 350 euros per personSpecial recommendation: Hikes along the Mosel promenade or on the Moselsteig bring you closer to the diverse landscape, vineyards, and historical sites like Bernkastel-Kues. Stroll through the historic old town there or visit the wine bar of the historic vaulted cellar of St. Nikolaus Hospital.
About the author: As a former grand hotelier and operator of the most relevant hotel ranking in the German-speaking world die-101-besten.com, Carsten K. Rath is a globetrotter by profession. He travels to all the hotels he writes about for ntv at his own expense.
Source: ntv.de
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- The hotel at Schloss Lieser, immersed in the heart of Germany's Moselle region, epitomizes a unique blend of lifestyle and travel, offering an authentic home-and-garden experience combined with the allure of a wine lover's paradise.
- Beyond the captivating historical tour and exquisite cuisine, the property stands as a testament to vocational training, as evidenced by the diverse team of employees hailing from various corners of the globe, showcasing a symphony of harmonious blends in the community policy of Schloss Lieser.
