Hotels Trüffel & Klemm

The busiest airport on the Continent is Frankfurt, an increasingly attractive place to land for business and pleasure travel in Europe. Frankfurt has it's supporters, but consider nearby Wiesbaden for your stay in the area. In a valley between the Rhine and the green foothills of the Taunus mountains, the city boasts a well preserved historic town center. Additionally there are many fine examples of Classicism and Art Nouveau, several large parks, 26 thermal baths patronized since Roman times, and all within easy reach of Frankfurt and the Rhine Valley.

For your stay choose between traditional and modern Europe - or perhaps stay a day or two in each. The Trüffel is a hip, small [24 rooms] city-center hotel that exudes class. Comfortable, modern rooms have generously sized bathrooms - all done in a clean modern style. Well suited for business or pleasure,  the telephones provide voice mail, there are fax and internet connection, as well as WiFi service throughout the hotel. A "comfort" room easily accommodates two persons, or splurge on a suite with small terrace. Rates include a very good breakfast served at the sleek restaurant/cafe that is also part of the hotel.

Located just a few blocks north of the city center on a quiet residential street, the Hotel Klemm is a completely restored and renovated 19th Century Jugendstil villa. A variety of single, double, triple rooms are available, along with a small apartment. All rooms have a bath with shower or tub, mini bar, TV, phone, and Internet connection. Breakfast is served in an attractively finished dining room, and there's a large inner patio where you can sit and relax.

Dining Tip:  A short walk to the Kurpark and its Kurhaus, built in 1907 at the behest of Kaiser Wilhelm II. In the north wing of the Kurhaus you'll find Käfer´s Bistro, a sophisticated Parisian-style brasserie. The seats are covered in burgundy leather, the high ceiling is stucco details with paintings, and the walls covered with pictures. The creative menu changes monthly featuring local specialties, but their classic half a roasted duck is always available and a fine choice.

Excursion Tip:  Kaiser Friedrich's Therme (spa) is large and well maintained. This traditional European spa competes with Baden Baden for top honors within Germany. The waters are renowned for an ability to sooth the aches and pains of arthritis, to promote good digestion, and to address many of the ailments that come from age and stress. The spa sits within a beautifully landscaped park that boasts hundreds of seasonal flowers.

Reading Tip: The Gambler by Fyodor Dostoyevsky  is based in part on his 1862 trip to Wiesbaden and time spent playing roulette in the local casino.

Alte Nikolaikirche (Church) and Historical Buildings on Rommeplatz (Square), Hesse, Germany
Alte Nikolaikirche (Church) and Historical Buildings on Rommeplatz (Square), Hesse, Germany Photographic Print
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