Der Schafhof

A 4-star hotel standing amongst rugged rocky wastes of Bavarian mountainside and forest, boasting breath-arresting views and steeped in history, this former Benedictine abbey was described by one of it's former monks as "where heaven and earth are particularly close together". It isn't hard to see why. Surrounded by herds of sheep and goats, against the melodious backdrop of songbirds, this is a tranquil place. The cosy and spacious rooms are in keeping with their traditional aesthetic, with big wooden beams in the ceiling, stone archways and littered with antiques and old oil paintings, though this is where tradition meets modernity. There are 2 restaurants: the Abt und Schäferstube serves an extensive array of wines and a broad range of international cuisine, while the Benediktinerstube serves simple, rustic, well-cooked Mediterranean dishes. The Spa and Wellness Centre has a sauna, gym and a wide variety of beauty and massage treatments. A particular highlight is the tennis court, which guests are free to use at all times, and the gym offers personal trainers, pilates and Nordic walking. This is the perfect cosy, secluded retreat for writers looking for inspiration or couples looking for a romantic getaway.