This beautiful neighborhood, on the shore of the famous Austrian lake Attersee in the Salzkammergut, was known historically as a holiday destination for international nobility. This particular villa belonged to Brazilian royalty. It was a place to escape, a place for extravagant parties and lazy afternoons. But it was also, during the world wars, a hospice — a place for nursing the wounded back to health. A recent renovation aims to reignite its former spirit.

A grand, three-story mansion on the edge of the lake, the villa has sweeping lawns, with views across the water to the mountains beyond. The setting is the big draw, but the house is also notable for its understated elegance — bright rooms flooded with natural light, picture windows taking full advantage of the great vistas. Furnishings are simple, offering a gentle nod to the building’s royal history.

Described by its owners as a “boutique villa”, Villa Weiss now has 10 suites and one chalet, which can be reserved individually. However, the entire house can also be rented privately for events. There is a spacious garden with sunbeds, and a private beach that invites guests to make the most of the lake.

The Chalet or “honeymoon suite” is a standalone space which is perfect for guests who want their privacy. A romantic balcony offers a stunning view of the lake. Breakfast in bed is available.

Each of the other suites varies in character — with different numbers of beds, different facilities, and varying views. Some are immediately adjacent to the turquoise lake, while others have views of the surrounding meadows and the church steeple and rooftops of nearby Attersee. Some rooms can be combined, and almost all have the capacity for extra kids’ beds.

This luxury boutique hotel in Austria is perfect for any size of group, or for one person getting away from it all.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Hairdryer, TV and fast WiFi in all rooms. There is a 24-hour self-service honesty bar in common areas. A small breakfast is included in the price. For the breakfast buffet, there is an additional charge of €20 per guest per day. There is free parking for one car per suite, and it is possible to dock private boats upon request.

AROUND 

Although the villa has a cafe, and some of the suites has kitchen facilities, there is also a great selection of restaurants nearby. The owners are happy to provide recommendations. If you’re looing for outdoor activities, the area is well-known for its great water sports, sailing, golfing, horse-riding and hiking.

Culture buffs, don’t miss the Salzburg Festival (Salzburger Festspiele), which is held every summer for five weeks (starting late July) in nearby Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Other attractions include the Gustav Klimt Center in Schoerfling am Attersee (a new exhibition space dedicated to the artist, with an outdoor Artist Trail), and the Attersee Klassik music festival.

LOCATION

Attersee am Attersee, Austria. Nearest airports: Salzburg (30-40 mins), Munich (2 hours), Vienna (2.5 hours).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The Villa is open mid-May to mid-September.

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