Hotel Schloss Seefels

Luxury hotels line the waterfront of Lake Wörthersee, but none have a swimming pool as remarkable as the one at Hotel Schloss Seefels. Accessible via a wooden dock that juts out into the turquoise lake, the pool is sometimes referred to as a bottomless bathtub — it’s enclosed only on the sides, and is heated in cooler weather, making it possible to dip in the Wörthersee’s waters during all four seasons.

There’s no doubt the pool is lovely, as are the heated bathrobes awaiting bathers on the dock’s sunny terrace. But it’s just one detail that makes Hotel Schloss Seefels stand out from its neighbors. It’s one of four boutique properties — one on a lake, one on a mountain, one by the sea, and one in Vienna — run by the Austrian hotelier Helena Ramsbacher. All are elegant and unique, filled with bespoke furnishings and decorated with original artwork. Hotel Schloss Seefels is particularly picturesque, partly due to its regal, Gatsby-like setting and architecture, rising up from the lakefront with tiers of landscaped lawn and open-air terraces overlooking the water.

Guest rooms and suites are every bit as graceful, light-filled and uniquely furnished with designer furniture and colorful artwork. Many have balconies overlooking the lake; all have high-end amenities like Dyson supersonic hairdryers, Nespresso machines, plush bathrobes, and stocked minibars. The lavish tropical jungle-themed spa, with glittering gold mosaics and ample lounge space facing the water, is visually striking, and a collection of restaurants and bars offer gourmet dining with water views. After dark, it’s hard to imagine a swankier spot for cocktails than the opulent Schlossbar, where a Baroque chandelier casts twinkling lights over a marble and walnut bar and guests indulge in whiskey and chocolate pairings.