The estate is worth a visit in its own right. Along with the palace, there is the 620ha Branitz Park, landscaped by Prince Hermann von Pückler in the 19C. Lou (a nickname given to Prince Pückler) is an elegant restaurant housed in the smart Kavaliersbau (squire's lodge). Here, chef-patron Tim Sillack serves up modern seasonal cuisine. His artful juxtaposition of regional and international influences shines through in dishes such as yellowtail mackerel tataki with a dashi broth, smoked kohlrabi and sweet radishes, or baked pork knuckle with potato and horseradish purée, Preschen asparagus and cucumber salad. Individual courses from the set menu can also be ordered à la carte. The Pücklereis (Neapolitan ice cream) – something of a signature dessert – is a permanent feature of the menu. There are also three tastefully furnished guestrooms for overnight stays.