BEHIND THE SCENES – Falkensteiner Schloss Hotel Velden

In 1590 the Carinthian aristocrat Barthlmä Khevenhüller, whose genealogical tree stretched back to 1396, decided to build himself a residence for which he could look forward to his latter years. It took more than a decade to build and in 1603 the manor shone in all its beauty. In the second half of the 18th century the building was destroyed by fire, but was later bought by a Viennese industrialist who with the help of architect Wilhelm Heß had turned it into a hotel in beautiful Neorenaissance style by the end of the 19th century.

Ever since the hotel opened it has been the centre of social life for the rich and famous. It has also been the backdrop for numerous movies and TV series, most notably the “Ein Schloß am Wörthersee” cult series in which the unforgettable Roy Black, in the role of a hotel manager, impressed the young and old audience. The hotel also made an impression on David Hasselhof, who even posted a video about the historic place on his Facebook profile. Sir Paul McCartney’s wife even bought an apartment in the picturesque site overlooking the Caribbean-blue coloured lake. There is no shortage of good stories like these ones and they are important because they further strenghten the image of the resort.

In 1990 the hotel found itself in the German and Austrian tabloids, as it was bought by Günter Sachs, the notorious heir to the throne of Willy Sachs. He was also the great-grandson of Wilhelm von Opel, one of the pioneers of the German automotive industry, and also husband to the then hollywood star Brigitte Bardot. Besides his many occupations as a photographer, art collector, author of documentary films and astrology analyst he was also recognised as the main playboy of the 60s and 70s.

As in any castle or manor, Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden also has some very special hidden treasures. In this case, however, it is not quite so hidden, as a 200m2 suite that was turned into an art facility by no less than Günter Sachs himself is situated in one of the towers. It has 10 different spots where you can admire graffiti artworks by Dareo and Toast, which gives the space an impressive tension and depth. Part of this mysterious hideaway is also the hotel marina, with 15 quays for private yachts and a yacht owned by the hotel.

In 2013 this castle-like hotel was taken over by a real estate company owned by Karl Wlaschek from Vienna, who also owns the Billa chain store. The management part is now run by Falkensteiner, who have refreshed the building and now made it a combination of old and new. Characterized by clean lines and minimalistic shapes of beige with dark brown and gold tones, the hotel has a very luxurious feel to it. Try to imagine fusing together elegant architecture from the 16th century with elements from marble and gold together with the latest in technology – an amazing combination where you can turn on the lights in your room by pressing a screen hidden beside your bed, or watch TV that is tucked behind a mirror, while at the same time taking a bath in a huge marble tub.

Wellness centre Aquapura SPA puts medicinal aesthetics at the forefront and offers guests experienced doctors in the fields of prevention, spiritual health and world renowned methods for rejuvenation. The centre stretches out over 3,600 m2 and houses a garden pool, an outdoor Finnish sauna with panoramic views of the lake, a relaxation room with swings, and a cinema inside the spa space. The centre for medicinal spa treatments works wonders and has brought new life to Falkensteiner’s venerable lakeside beauty. The innovative design can be ascribed to Bea Mitterhofer from the South of Tirol.

Shchlosshotel Velden is no ordinary hotel and even the congress centre contributes to the fact that it awakens the imagination in people’s minds. It is a place where time starts running more slowly and first class tech support is taken for granted. The hotel is ideal for car launches, as the biggest congress hall has space for 120 guests, along with numerous smaller spaces and very photogenic architecture. For the more active congress participants there are also many options in the marina or the swimming area, as well as some hidden nooks for a truly special experience under the stars.

A first class culinary offer with a mix of the Mediterranean and local flavours has been established by chef Paul Schrott and before him Carinthian chef Stefan Lastin and world renowned Silvio Nickol. Can it get better than that? Perhaps, as their wine cellar also boasts an incredible offer and if something is missing they will bring it to you in no time at all. The Beach Club Restaurant “Seespitz” on the shore of Lake Wörthersee is also excellent, a perfect spot for special events.

When first stepping through the front door, you can feel positivity and a relaxed attitude. The natural colours and wood fit in nicely with the surroundings, which can be fully appreciated from the garden pool. Privacy is assured in many hidden corners tailored for events. It is also because of this that the hotel has received so many Best Hotel awards and has become a trademark for Carinthian tourism.