Finding a great place to stay is quite difficult, there are just too many options out there! But once you start to dig into your options you soon realize that 99% are those standard boring hotels. My suggestion: look for unique accommodation that will make your stay memorable and full of surprises. In Hamburg, I found just that – RAPHAEL HOTEL WÄLDERHAUS.

It is the first eco-hotel in Hamburg! Wälderhaus literally means a forest house, and the moment you enter you feel like you’re in a forest of some kind. The interior is very cozy, inviting and also beautiful in a modern way. All the materials are natural and locally sourced, plus it gives the whole place this relaxing wood aroma.

It is located in Wilhelmsburg (an island on the Elbe River) next to the Inselpark and a train station (it takes only 10 min to get to the city center). I found it really cool to be surrounded by nature yet close to the main city attractions. Also, don’t forget that 2 minutes away you will find one of the newest swimming pools in Hamburg. Doesn’t it look great?

This peaceful surrounding is definitely an advantage if you want to fully relax. However in my opinion what really makes a difference is the comfort. Every room is themed with a local tree. I stayed in the “Sommerlinde” room, that is Largeleaf linden. It reminded me of an actual log cabin that my uncle has, where as a child I used to spend family holidays. The wood paneling, fresh cotton beddings and lots of sunlight coming through the big windows just make you feel at home.

Until now I always thought that “sustainability” was just a marketing tool, but I as I said before, this really is a unique hotel. It relies on solar and geothermal energy and makes an extra effort to cut water consumption. The soap and shampoo that you find in the room have a big sign: “Stop the water while using me”. At first, I thought it was just a sign, but it turns out to be the name of a local brand that makes organic cosmetics. In addition, you can also visit the science center and exhibition focused on forest ecosystem or even attend an environmental conference (I told you this hotel is big on ecology).

Now let me tell you about the best part of my stay – the breakfast buffet. It not only has a huge variety of fresh local produce but even some homemade raspberry marmalade and different types of natural whole grain German bread.

It really gives you the energy to explore the city (unlike some factory made donuts…). Also, keep in mind that if you enjoy a modern take on local cuisine, you could try the hotel restaurant for dinner. If you want to know the top attractions in Hamburg, check out my blog post.