Elite Traveler January-February 2019

SPECIAL PROMOTION

BADEN-BADEN — THE GOOD-GOOD LIFE

Clockwise from top Caracalla Spa’s thermal bathhouse; the old-world opulence of Casino Baden-Baden; a festive horseride through the snow; the elegant and unusual Friedrichsbad dome bath

“The Belle Époque meets the Age of Instagram” is the headline that the New York Times recently used to describe Baden-Baden — and it is certainly true. Today, the city’s rich history blends seamlessly with a highly contemporary lifestyle. Baden-Baden, located in the Black Forest in Germany, is an oasis for wellness and relaxation, but also a great destination for culture lovers, art enthusiasts and foodies. For those seeking relaxation, the city’s two thermal baths offer exclusive wellness pleasure. The modern Caracalla Spa creates an exceptional ambience for soothing relaxation in thermal water. The historic Friedrichsbad, looking back on over 140 years of bathing history, combines traditional Roman bathing culture with the habits of Irish hot-air bathing. Baden- Baden is home to a variety of spa and wellness hotels, many offering exquisite spa treatments. The jewel among the spas in Baden-Baden is Villa Stéphanie, part of the five-star superior Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa. The luxury spa is a mansion solely devoted to your spa experience. Alongside the great wellness experiences, the town of Baden-Baden also has plenty of art and culture.

The Festival Hall Baden-Baden is Europe’s second- largest opera and concert hall, and hosts international opera, ballet and concerts at the highest level. Known for its superb acoustics, the concert hall hosts world-renowned artists, including the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, the Mariinsky Ballet and the violinist Anne-Sophie Mutter. Additionally, the city is home to several museums that are worth a visit. The Museum Frieder Burda, built by New York architect Richard Meier, fascinates with a private art collection that includes selected masterpieces of Classical Modernism as well as changing exhibitions. The building itself is a must-see for guests who enjoy art and architecture. Shopping enthusiasts will find exquisite boutiques in the picturesque streets and small roads of the old town of Baden-Baden. If you are looking for luxury- brand products, international labels, individual antiques, jewelry or presents, Baden-Baden is a great place for it all. For gourmands, the town has a vast selection of options to choose from. Its restaurants range from Michelin-starred eateries to cozy little taverns,

offering both international and traditional Baden cuisine. Just four miles outside the city center, gourmets and aficionados of fine wine can find a variety of excellent restaurants and wineries in Baden-Baden’s wine region, the Rebland — Germany’s second-largest Riesling growing district. For an evening filled with excitement, Casino Baden-Baden is the perfect location. Situated in the Kurhaus is Germany’s oldest casino and, according to German actress and singer Marlene Dietrich, “the most beautiful casino in the world.” It offers guests the chance to dive into the world of roulette, blackjack and poker in a unique Belle Époque ambience of arcades and magnificent staterooms. Baden-Baden, the elegant spa and culture town, offers a variety of wellness, cultural and culinary highlights in a spectacular natural setting on the outskirts of the Black Forest. Best of all, almost everything is within walking distance.

Contact Baden-Baden Tourism Board info@baden-baden.com, +49 722 127 5200, baden-baden.com

Photos Baden-Baden Kur & Tourismus GmbH