Grand Hotel Zell Am See

Just back from an absolutely wonderful week at the Grand Hotel. There are so many positives it’s hard to know where to start. The location is picture perfect, right on the lake, so that almost all the rooms have the most breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. . Yet it is also just yards from the town so very convenient. The train station is also nearby and there is noise from the trains but one quickly gets so used to it that it’s barely there. The decor of the hotel is very elegant and classy, almost from a bygone age although certainly somewhat dated. A refresh of curtains and soft furnishings would be an improvement. Some of the ‘comfort rooms’ are also quite dated but are still spacious and very clean, but if you can, try to get one of the superior ones, although the website is really not very clear on exactly what each room is like, so probably best to speak directly to the hotel. The hotel is spotlessly clean and well maintained which is a feat in itself considering its size. The staff must get a special mention. Every single one was pleasant and helpful, solving any problem immediately. We had a slight issue with the room we had been given which was cheerfully resolved with an absolutely wonderful upgrade - thank you so much! Special mention to the dining room staff who were just lovely, most especially Filip and above all Leyla who is an absolute credit to the hotel with her wonderful welcoming smile at the entrance to the dining room. She made every single person feel special, especially the children. She truly deserves promotion! The food was outstanding. A breakfast buffet consisting of just about every possible thing you could want, a 5 course evening meal with a choice of 3 items for every course, and all beautifully presented. There are numerous areas to just sit and relax and enjoy the view, especially the lovely lakeside terrace in the gardens and the upstairs terrace where those on half board can enjoy some tasty snacks and cakes in the afternoon- free of charge! The hotel is spotlessly clean and well maintained which is a feat in itself considering its size. We really hope to return next year and would highly recommend this lovely hotel. Cheap it is not but a wonderful relaxing ambiance and good value for money.