Fodor's Expert Review Schloss Fuschl

Modern luxury intermingles with historical elegance in this expansive lakeside castle resort and spa. Stroll through spacious grounds in the footsteps of first owner (in 1450), the Archbishop of Salzburg, and countless royals, dignitaries, movie stars, and opera divas since it became a hotel in 1947. The Schloss stood in for Empress Elizabeth's Bavarian estate in the famous Sissi trilogy, starring Romy Schneider; an on-site museum honors the Empress and the movies. Choose between airy, modern rooms in the main building, a decadent, antiques-filled Tower Suite in the original residence, or a private lakeside chalet with fireplace and sauna. Dutch, Flemish, and French masterpieces adorn the common areas and suites. The region's famous smoked trout, and char caught daily by the castle fishery, are menu mainstays. Dine on the year-round terrace, with stunning lake and mountain views; when the temperature drops, ring your chairside bell for a mulled cocktail while keeping warm under your cozy blanket.