Spring has arrived in Europe and with it, one of the continent’s most highly anticipated hotels of the year. Now open on Lake Alster in Hamburg, The Fontenay has been years in the making—an architectural landmark designed by local architect Jan Störmer. A focal point of the hotel is its 89-foot atrium, a “sculptural architecture [that] mirrors the fluid lines of the water and parkland, uniting art and nature,” to quote a written release.
As we reported back in 2015, The Fontenay is the first new luxury hotel for Hamburg in 18 years. Located on the site of the former InterContinental hotel in the Rotherbaum district, The Fontenay is the pet project of billionaire Klaus-Michael Kuehne.
The striking architectural concept continues in the 130 guestrooms (including 17 suites). High ceilings, private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows flood the spaces with light, bringing nature inside as “part of the hotel experience.” Pops of turquoise, blue and beige reflect the hotel’s natural surroundings. Parquet floors are crafted from oak sourced from the forest of Fontenay Abbey in Burgundy, while decorative objects were created by Danish design brand Georg Jensen. Rooms are outfitted with all the latest technology, including a touchpad to adjust lighting, open and close the window blinds, or change the room temperature with the touch of a button.
Head up to the rooftop to rejuvenate at the spa, take a dip in the infinity pool, or bask on the sun terrace. There’s also a Finnish sauna and a fitness center. When it comes to dining, there’s Lakeside, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Speinle, Parkview, a “relaxed garden restaurant,” the Atrium Lounge for Afternoon Tea and The Fontenay Bar for drinks with 320-degree panoramic views. The Fontenay is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
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