Situated in the heart of old Salzburg, Goldener Hirsch (meaning "the golden stag," the hotel's logo) is the clear choice for visitors who want a sense of place. Part of Starwood's Luxury Collection, Goldener Hirsch is an historic 600 year old building authentically furnished with antiques and accents reminiscent of Salzburg a century ago. Ceilings are low, tall guests having to duck at times, but this charm is part of the trade-off which some will appreciate. Exposed centuries-old year old wooden beams add to the ambiance of some rooms. The attention to historical detail is superb; guestroom interiors utilize hand-painted lamp shades and handmade linens and fabrics (designed by the Count who once owned the hotel). Many rooms have antique wardrobes that were gifts from past guests who stayed in the same rooms during every visit and who considered the hotel to be a second home. After one past guest made such a gift, it apparently started a trend! According to the sales manager, the hotel has the best guest satisfaction index of any hotel in Europe ... and obviously many repeat visitors. "We don't have guests," he told us, "only friends."

Room Types

Every one of the 70 rooms and suites in the hotel is different; there are four room categories — classic, exclusive, festival, and suite. Given the small size of the hotel, you probably cannot expect an upgrade during August (during the Mozart Festival). I stayed in a nice Exclusive room with King bed, working desk (with free WiFi or ethernet access provided), and seating area at the opposite end of the room with sofa and two sitting chairs. The large entry area provided the room's closet, and the bathroom had dual vanities, shower within the soaking tub, and a WC.

Overall

A charming 600 year old hotel in the heart of Old Salzbug that provides an incredible sense of place