The Guest House

Hotel review

A cosy, classy ‘concept’ hotel with 39 rooms in the very heart of Vienna’s central district, immediately opposite The Opera House, and a stone’s throw from the must-see Albertina museum. There is a definite philosophy at play here which is perhaps understandable when you learn that the interior design is by Conran & Partners and was closely over-seen by Sir Terence himself. The rooms are all about tranquillity and calm. Pared down, fuss-free, simple, modern, comfortable and elegant. The cleverly incorporated bathrooms continue this theme, whilst zesty and delicious own-brand toiletries (all natural of course) provide the ultimate pampering finishing touch. The best thing of all are the window seats where you could be forgiven for lolling all day looking out onto Vienna’s Baroque splendour – easily done as every room comes with 4 complimentary bottles of wine (or equivalent soft drinks), from the hotel’s own vineyard. You are allowed to take this to the Brasserie. What a great idea! The (delicious) house brand Arabica coffee is also complimentary in every room. Large-scale original photographs by Wolfgang Zac add a certain urban edginess to the rooms and public spaces. (The photographs were commissioned specially for this project). The light and spacious Brasserie on the ground floor is atmospheric, vibrant and buzzing. It is packed at lunchtimes and is a local hotspot for weekend brunches. Fresh seasonal cooking and home baked bread is the order of the day and you can sit out on the pavement in the summer. To quote Sir Terence himself “Good design makes people happy” and this is certainly borne out at The Guest House. Very highly recommended.

Caroline Townsend Review published: 08/02/2019