Following extensive renovation works, the Leonardo Royal Baden-Baden has been transformed into a quiet oasis of wellness whilst still retaining its character as an elegant business hotel. Every detail has been carefully updated to create a sense of understated sophistication.
The centrepiece of the completed works is a generously expanded health and beauty area which sets new benchmarks for wellness and relaxation in Baden-Baden, a spa town steeped in tradition. Two luxurious storeys provide an inviting environment in which to unwind. An idyllic outdoor area will be added by next summer to offer a true refuge for those seeking peace and quiet.
The Leonardo Royal Baden-Baden’s 121 rooms and suites, public areas, restaurant, bar and corridors have all been given a complete makeover in order to meet the expectations of a timelessly modern spa hotel. The reception area has been turned into a spacious open lobby. Wholesome, healthy and fresh cuisine using regional products awaits diners in the chic restaurant. The light and airy conference area has also been upgraded, and business guests will now find state-of-the-art equipment to help them deliver productive meetings and events. The modernised gym features large mirrors and offers ideal exercise facilities for a work-out.
For body and spirit – total relaxation across two storeys
There is no doubt that the high-end spa area is one of the highlights of the revamped Leonardo Royal Baden-Baden. A whole new floor has been added, and facilities extend across a generous space of 1,700 square metres. The spa will grow to a total of more than 3,000 square metres once the outdoor zone is finished. It will provide a luxurious retreat for guests in search of recuperation and repose.
The garden side of the upper floor has been laid out as a pool and lounger section. The large indoor pool boasts ingenious LED lighting which uses variable colours to create a stimulating atmosphere. A homage to the surrounding nature of the Black Forest in the form of a large illuminated mural of a bubbling brook is another real eye catcher. Apart from the heated indoor pool, this part of the spa is home to a steam bath and two saunas with different infusions each day. Lounge areas with an open fire provide another inviting space in which to relax. A specially designated digital detox zone has been set up in order to facilitate complete escape from the stresses of everyday life for a brief period.
The outdoor area is surrounded by high trees. Its inviting loungers, benches and chairs supplement the sense of wellness by introducing the elements of fresh air and nature. Further outside saunas will be installed by the summer of 2025 to take this approach one step further.
Seven treatment rooms offer high-level health and beauty spa experiences provided by the specialist company Vinoble Spa powered by Premedion. Vinoble Cosmetics’ vegan unisex products are manufactured in Austria. They use soothing active ingredients taken from grapes – hence the name Vinoble, which translates as “vineyard”. Rose stem cells are a further source.
Guests can choose from a range of treatment rituals including whole body, partial or anti-stress massages. Revitalising facial and body applications such as vino forming or detox peeling are also available. One particular highlight is salt therapy. This has a refreshing effect and is an ideal complement to the harmonious interplay between wellness and productivity at the hotel. Salt water contains minerals and is well known for bestowing a beneficial effect on both body and mind. It promotes blood circulation, loosens tense muscles and leads to a deep sense of relaxation. This is the perfect pick-up after a long day full of meetings or a tour of the town. The natural minerals leave the skin in a refreshed and invigorated state and confer a feeling of vitality and new energy.
The refined design of the spa area gives a sense of warmth and lightness. Natural materials, wooden floors and bright and soft colours combine to offer an oasis of peace. This feel-good experience is the result of a carefully considered and holistic design process. It is rounded off by a completely new sound and aroma concept which, in conjunction with the indirect lighting, always strikes exactly the right mood.
Tradition interpreted in a modern way – the interior design approach
Interior design throughout the whole of the hotel is by the famous international architect Andreas Neudahm. His approach to the renovation works was to embrace a modern interpretation of Baden-Baden’s great spa traditions.
The hotel’s 121 rooms and suites and all bathrooms were given a complete facelift to fit in with the new focus on wellness. Clear lines and light colours with plenty of white and cream and earthy hues were introduced. A discreet dose of gentle blue references the element of water and uses a fresh touch to bring the topic of wellness into the rooms themselves. All rooms have a balcony or terrace with unique views of nature out towards the Black Forest.
The reception area has become the heart of the hotel. The warm natural shades of colour and wood-based materials in the open lobby serve to underline its welcoming character. “The lobby used to give the impression of being shut off,” explained the interior designer Andreas Neudahm. “The conversion works have engendered a sense of generosity and openness, and this allows guests to take stock of the whole area as soon as they arrive. Despite the open concept, there are still individual pockets which can act as a private haven. It is possible to feel safe whilst still being at the centre of the action.”
The right framework for private or business events of any kind
The conference area has also been given a new look to harmonise it with the rest of the building. Here, the tranquillity and feeling of security prevalent within the whole of the building’s design are coupled with the very latest tools to permit constructive work and highly effective networking. Five fully equipped events rooms, all with natural daylight, extend over an area of almost 175 square metres and are able to accommodate up to 50 persons.
The restaurant terrace and attractive garden provide further opportunities to take events outside. This is both an enchanting venue for weddings or anniversaries and an inspiring environment for work meetings or incentives.
Healthy fresh cooking and fine drinks
The Vitruv Restaurant is comfortably furnished and provides a new and cosy meeting place which is open to external guests too. In the summer months, its attractive outside terrace is also a great venue to enjoy a meal and to come together with others. The team under Head Chef Carlo Soavi will be treating guests to a high-end and fresh style of Mediterranean cuisine which also features freshly made pasta. The restaurant adopts a modern interpretation which places an emphasis on regional produce, much of which is organic. The menu also contains a high proportion of vegetarian dishes. Perfectly cooked fish and high-quality meat also form part of an ambitious repertoire, and a snug bar is also an inviting place to linger. Alongside coffee and other hot beverages, guests can enjoy selected cocktails, long drinks, aperitifs and sundowners with or without alcohol. The wine menu is a real treat for connoisseurs. It includes numerous open wines from all over the world and offerings from regional vintners in Baden-Württemberg. Of course, a glass of well cooled fresh draught beer is also a good way of rounding off the day.