The Sacher has a fantastic location on the river and looks much better than the Starwood "luxury" collection Goldener Hirsch.

Should you however go to Salzburg for the festival (as I do), you might wish to be less than 1 minute from the opera venues at the now fully refurbished Blaue Gans which calls itself "art hotel". It is refreshingly pleasant with extremely motivated staff and provides understated but efficient luxury.

The rooms are theme designed with very comfortable beds and soundproofing is so efficient that even the rooms towards the Herbert Von Karajan Platz are totally silent - with a view.

Mrs Schaffner, the restaurant manager provides a kind of dining experience even after the opera which is unrivalled - even my harsh complaint regarding a mistake with a preordered menu which was served at a too slow pace was professionally handled and rectified - and the food quality is top notch.

Arriving with the car, which can be stressful, is eased by a specific loading zone and valet parking for only EUR 10 a day.

Breakfast is a highlight and even my evening suit was ironed within 30 minutes at no charge ^^ (I tipped generously - thing i normally never do).

So if you think Salzburg, consider also the Blaue Gans.