The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg is a very special hotel. Located in Wolfsburg, an industrial hub in Northern Germany not far away from Hannover and only a one-hour train ride from Berlin, is surely is quite an outsider in the hotel world. Autostadt is a theme and experiential park adjacent to the Volkswagen factory with a primary focus on cars. It is property of the Volkswagen group and features a museum, numerous pavilions from the Volkswagen car brands, and several other attractions. In the middle of the park one will find the Ritz-Carlton hotel. This is one of the flagship properties of the Ritz-Carlton hotel group and an example to many in terms of design, staff, and gastronomy assets.

Embracing the industrial buildings from the theme park, The Ritz-Carlton Wolfsburg is designed as a circular building with lots of glass and natural stone. The backside of the hotel is situated right next to the original Volkswagen port basin. From many of the rooms, the restaurants, the spa, and last but not least, the incredible outdoor floating pool, guests have a stunning view of the four majestic chimneys of the original 1930’s Volkswagen Kraftwerk Power Station. Swimming in the extra-large floating pool on a cold day, with the view on the working chimneys, is simply magical. Oh and do not worry, this pool is always heated to 30 degrees.

The Ritz-Carlton Wolfsburg was originally designed by architect Dr. Gunter Henn, the master planner of the Autostadt and the “Crystal Fabric” of the Volkswagen Company in Dresden. The property was totally redesigned in 2015, gaining a contemporary update of the original design concept. The hotel’s interior design is all about the well-being of guests. A luxurious, comfortable atmosphere is created through an extensive art collection, personalised service, all modern amenities, and craftsmanship. The hotel boasts 147 luxurious rooms and 23 suites where cosiness and comfort are key elements. High, leather-covered headboards and sideboards frame the beds and sofas on the opposite side of the room. The leather coverings are manufactured by a company that specialises in high-precision interiors for luxury cars. For more discerning travellers, it is recommended to book a Club Lounge room. At the Club Lounge, a changing selection of food and drinks are served in a living room atmosphere with comfortable lounge chairs, sofas and a library with fireplace. An ideal place to work, relax, or both.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa is the perfect place to unwind and offers two steam baths, two saunas, and, of course, the unique floating pool. Situated directly in the harbour basin, it boasts a constant water temperature of around 30° Celsius, and features several floating tree islands.

Dining is another main asset of the hotel. Of course, Aqua steals the show here. For more information about this restaurant, which can easily be considered as one of the best in the world, please visit our restaurant section. In Restaurant Terra, the second restaurant of the hotel, the chef puts the focus on the pure and original taste. All products and ingredients are sourced and hand selected from small local farmers and manufacturers.

The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg – a destination on itself.

Images: The Ritz-Carlton

Written by Sven & Frank