Schloss Mönchstein

Schloss Mönchstein Review

With gorgeous gardens and hiking trails, it's little wonder the 19th-century naturalist Alexander von Humboldt called this retreat outside the city a "small piece of paradise." Catherine of Russia and the Duchess of Liechtenstein are just two of the notables who have stayed in the gable-roofed, tower-studded mansion. Inside, a series of lovely rooms are hung with tapestries and adorned with painted chests and Old Master daubs. The wedding chapel is particularly popular with American and Japanese couples. Getting to town means a taxi, unless you are willing to negotiate steps or take the nearby Mönchsberg elevator, which is about an eight-minute walk away. Pros: luxurious rooms; lovely views; feels far from the city. Cons: o utside the city center; need a car to get around.