Franziskischlößl - Elsbethen

My family (two adult children and husband) and I stayed at the Franziskischloessl for several days this past December 2018. This old castle tower, which has been deliciously refurbished with elegant yet comfortable furnishings, exceeded our expectations by a mile. Franziskischloessl is nestled in the...midst of a nature's preserve a mere 30 minute walk to the historic section of Salzburg. The owners/managers of this lovely castle, Anton Gruber and Wolfgang Steinmetz, are talented, lovely and helpful and took every measure to ensure that we had an unforgettable stay. This started with very clear directions of where to park in Salzburg and by sending us a large and comfortable shuttle to take us to the castle (the shuttle is there to provide for rides to and from the castle all day). The ride through narrow streets and up the steep hill to the castle was a fun experience in itself. Upon arrival, we realized that the castle and its fine restaurant as well as outdoor market featuring wine, food, great views and products produced on the grounds of the castle and in the community, is a major destination for locals and tourists who enjoy a short hike through a beautiful nature preserve. Our next delight involved seeing and staying in the two tower rooms. Both my husband and my room as well as the room occupied by our children, were incredibly large, with seating areas, a large number of windows providing spectacular views and every amenity desired. Both rooms had an abundance of drinks (wine, sodas, coffees and teas) and snacks (the good kind). The bathrooms were absolutely stunning. Our bathroom overlooked the former drawbridge and moat and included a romantic tub, chandelier, shower, bathrobes and all necessary appliances. Our children's bathroom was equally stunning and well equipped and came with a Sauna. Breakfast was included in the price of the rooms and was another spectacular experience. The owners are fabulous chefs and breakfast an exquisite experience of truffle flavored ham, avocado toast with perfectly prepared eggs and countless other items. We can't wait to return to Franziskischloessl what an absolutely dreamy experience.

At the end of a steep walk up this 630ft high hill, sits this beautiful place. The restaurant inside is heavily organic and natural. The food is hearty, delicious and made with care and interest. The drinks are excellent, the service so friendly and efficient...and the atmosphere is unbeatable.

At the end of a steep walk up this 630ft high hill, sits this beautiful place. The restaurant inside is heavily organic and natural. The food is hearty, delicious and made with care and interest. The drinks are excellent, the service so friendly and efficient...and the atmosphere is unbeatable.

This is a fair trek up a big hill, I would say about 1.4 Miles. It is lovely scenery though with great views of the castle and City. It is a really picturesque building with an outside eating area and several eating areas inside. The...highlight for me was the Apple Strudel, which was the best I had during my stay in Austria.

We went to the Christmas Market held here on weekends in December. It was one of my favorites this year. It was very quaint with a fire in the fire pit and red lap blankets on each chair. There was a food kiosk that we...had a plum filled fried sandwich with powdered sugar that was beyond description. And one gift kiosk that had locally made gifts including honey made at the nearby monastery. There was a shuttle that ran from just outside the Star Hotel on Linzergasse for those that did not want to hike up. I will definitely return to this Christmas Market next year.