My picks in Travel

Many hotels have rooms with a view but the majestic Buhlerhohe Schlosshotel, a decadent spa retreat in the heart of the Black Forest, surely takes some beating. Perched on a bluff and surrounded by 44 acres of densly forested and pristine parkland, this grand 20th century castle offers breathtaking panoramas of the Rhine Valley from almost every window. All 77 rooms and 13 themed suites were refurbished in 2006 with king-size beds, wireless internet and personal butlers (on request). Dining is a major part of the Buhlerhohe experience with the Michelin-starred Gourmet-Restaurant Imperial serving classic French cuisine (jackets are required) and the more casual Schlossrestaurant offering regional dishes (the Bellevue Terrace is open in the summer). Activities range from hiking to mountain biking, hot-air ballooning or golf on six nearby courses—followed by a treatment in the very good spa—or explore nearby Baden-Baden with its ancient Roman baths. About an hour from Strasbourg by car.

Room rates from 160 Euros.