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Artful Escapes

Artful Escapes: Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa

In Germany’s Black Forest, the original jewel in the Oetker Hotels portfolio sparkles more brightly than ever following a two-year renovation

By Jacqueline Terrebonne
Historic building with symmetrical windows, balconies, and a flag on the roof, surrounded by greenery and two red chairs.
Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels

For over 150 years, Brenners Park has welcomed the famous and the fabulous to Germany’s Black Forest, including Queen Victoria, Walt Disney, and Barack Obama. Its fairy-tale setting, Beaux Arts architecture, exemplary service, and refined approach to healthy living are all part of its dignified charm. Now, after a two-year renovation, the original jewel in the Oetker Hotels portfolio sparkles more brightly than ever.

Cozy library room with a spiral staircase artwork above a fireplace, surrounded by bookshelves and seating.
Villa at Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels

The interiors, as conceived by Bergit Douglas of MM Design, daughter of Rudolf August Oetker, are distinguished by a fresh take on old-world sensibility achieved through a thoughtful mix of antiques, de Gournay wallpaper, and fabrics by Colefax and Fowler and Pierre Frey. No two rooms are alike, and it’s just that kind of personal touch that can be found in every character-rich detail—from the pool with trompe l’oeil walls painted to resemble a Roman bath to the cheery awnings adorning the multitude of private terraces dotting the hotel’s façade.

Indoor pool with swimmer and lounge chairs by large windows overlooking green trees.
The indoor pool at Brenners Park features walls painted in a trompe l’oeil style to resemble a Roman bath. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels

But Brenners Park is more than just a luxurious haven for rest and relaxation. Guests wishing to embark on a rigorous health regime can work with renowned medical specialists nestled in a secluded building on the property. Here, things take on a much more modern-day aesthetic, with advanced diagnostics and cutting-edge machinery. Those under the care of Harry König, MD, will benefit from customized longevity protocols, including stem cell therapy, blood washing, and more. And who wouldn’t want to live longer in a place like this?

Courtyard with wooden benches, small trees, and a peach building with green shutters in the background.
Wellness courtyard at Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels
Luxury hotel room with a large bed, elegant decor, a desk near natural light from windows, and artwork on the walls.
Bedroom suite at Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels
Modern sauna interior with wooden slats, glass door, and tiled wall, creating a sleek and relaxing ambiance.
Fitness sauna at Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels
Bright spa room with two massage tables, large bathtub, green window shutters, and a chair beside a tall window with curtains.
Treatment room at Brenners Park—Hotel & Spa. Photo: Courtesy of Oetker Hotels


A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2026 Summer Issue in the section “Artful Escapes.” Subscribe to the magazine.