Schloss Hugenpoet
Historic 1600s castle hotel in Essen, offering fine dining, beautiful gardens, and a fairytale ambiance for stays and events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the gardens in bloom
Schloss Hugenpoet
Best Time
Enjoy the gardens in bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1600s castle hotel in Essen, offering fine dining, beautiful gardens, and a fairytale ambiance for stays and events.
"Nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, this castle boasts a surrounding moat stepped in history, where you can escape and relax."
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the beautiful castle park. :picnic_sun:
🍰 Cake & Coffee Delight
Savor delicious cakes and pastries, which are as beautiful as they are tasty. :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Schlosspark Gardens
Castle Grounds
Stroll through the picturesque rose garden and expansive park, perfect for picnics or quiet relaxation.

Historic Castle Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Experience the charm of a 1600s castle, with its historic stone and brickwork, and cozy fireplaces.

Fine Dining Experience
Restaurant
Indulge in a refined dining experience, with options for special diets and beautifully presented dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Experiences
Embrace the Castle Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the beautiful castle park.
:picnic_sun:🍰 Cake & Coffee Delight
Savor delicious cakes and pastries, which are as beautiful as they are tasty.
:coffee:✨ Fairytale Weddings
Consider this stunning castle for your dream wedding venue.
:wedding:🎶 Live Music Ambiance
Enjoy live music performances that add to the magical atmosphere.
:musical_note:Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the beautiful castle park.
:picnic_sun:🍰 Cake & Coffee Delight
Savor delicious cakes and pastries, which are as beautiful as they are tasty.
:coffee:✨ Fairytale Weddings
Consider this stunning castle for your dream wedding venue.
:wedding:🎶 Live Music Ambiance
Enjoy live music performances that add to the magical atmosphere.
:musical_note:🛌 Room Variety
Rooms vary in design; choose one that suits your style for a comfortable stay.
:bed:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Schloss Hugenpoet offers a unique stay in a historic castle with beautiful gardens and fine dining, but some guests report inconsistencies in service and room upkeep that don't always align with a five-star expectation. While the ambiance and setting are often praised, occasional issues with staff attentiveness and outdated amenities have been noted.
"Disappointing Stay – Definitely Not Worth Five Stars
We stayed at this hotel for three nights and deliberately booked a villa, expecting a high-end experience. Unfortunately, our expectations were not met in several key areas.
The problems started at check-in: we were about to be given the wrong room – not the villa we had booked. This only came to light when they tried to take us to the incorrect room. There was no real apology, and the front desk staff seemed disorganized and unprofessional.
Throughout our entire stay, we barely saw any staff. There was no help with luggage – completely unacceptable for a supposed five-star hotel.
Breakfast was another disappointment. At first, only toast was available; no white bread. After several back-and-forths, they finally managed to bring some. Overall, the service was inattentive and far below five-star standards.
The villa itself was spacious, but clearly outdated and not properly cleaned. Dust had accumulated on many of the surfaces – not what you would expect in this price range.
Dinner at the restaurant was equally underwhelming. We ordered caviar, which was initially served warm. Only after we asked was it properly presented on ice. The so-called “potato-radish salad” consisted of plain potatoes with exactly two slices of radish – more garnish than salad.
One particularly strange detail: the slippers in our room had the logo of a completely different hotel. I’ve never seen anything like that before – it felt careless and unprofessional.
To sum up, we were thoroughly disappointed with our stay. It is completely unclear to us how this hotel could possibly be listed among the 101 best hotels in Germany. It certainly does not live up to the standards of a five-star establishment, and we cannot recommend it."
Surefire
"Nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, this castle boasts a surrounding moat stepped in history, where you can escape and relax. We were astounded when we spotted an otter swimming gracefully in the moat - an extraordinary, magical, and rare experience."
Gisele Atherton
"Extraordinary buildings renovated in a lovely way to fulfill the five star feeling of the hotel (this really old stone and brick castle). Fireplaces with live fires going in the evenings are cosy. But be prepared for the smell if you are sensitive. The fine dining experience is a thing I truly appreciate and recommend!"
Lina Juslin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schloss Hugenpoet is located in Essen. You can reach it by car, taxi, or public transport. The nearest public transport stops might require a short walk. Many visitors arrive by car, and parking is usually available.
While public transport can get you to Essen, reaching Schloss Hugenpoet directly might involve a bus or tram ride followed by a walk. Checking local transport schedules is advised.
For a day trip, driving is often the most convenient option, allowing flexibility. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service can take you directly to the castle.
Using a GPS navigation system with the address 'Hugenpoet 1, 45133 Essen' is recommended. Follow signs for Schloss Hugenpoet upon nearing the location.
While not explicitly stated, it's always worth contacting Schloss Hugenpoet directly to inquire about any transportation assistance or recommendations they might offer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the castle grounds and gardens is generally free for visitors, especially for strolls or picnics. However, access to the hotel, restaurant, or specific events may require reservations or tickets.
The castle hotel and its amenities like the restaurant have specific operating hours. The gardens are often accessible for longer periods. It's best to check the official website for the most current hours.
There is typically no admission fee to walk around the exterior and gardens of Schloss Hugenpoet. However, if you plan to dine or stay overnight, those services will incur charges.
While not always advertised, guided tours might be available, especially for groups or during special events. Inquire directly with the hotel for tour options.
Schloss Hugenpoet hosts special events, particularly during the Christmas season. These often require advance booking and may have specific entry fees or packages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Schloss Hugenpoet offers fine dining in its restaurant, known for its quality food and accommodating special dietary needs like vegan and gluten-free options.
Breakfast at Schloss Hugenpoet is priced around €42 for external guests and €30 for hotel guests.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to enjoy picnics in the beautiful castle park, often with specially prepared picnic baskets available for purchase.
Absolutely. The elegant setting and fine dining experience make it ideal for celebrations, romantic dinners, and special events.
The restaurant serves high-quality, often regional-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and elegant presentation.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle's exterior, the rose garden, the moat, and the grand interiors offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities.
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public areas and gardens. For professional shoots or specific events, it's advisable to check with the hotel.
During private events like weddings, photography might be restricted to guests or official photographers. Always be mindful of the ongoing event.
Drone usage is typically restricted at private properties and historic sites due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly permitted.
Social media content often highlights the romantic ambiance, the gardens, fine dining, and special events like weddings and Christmas celebrations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For an overnight stay, inquire about room configurations that might be more suitable for families. The unique castle setting can spark children's imaginations, making it a memorable experience. However, be mindful that some areas might have historical features that require supervision.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The option to enjoy a picnic in the park or simply stroll hand-in-hand through the grounds adds to the romantic appeal. The castle's fairytale atmosphere makes it a popular choice for proposals and anniversaries.
🥂 Event Planners & Wedding Parties
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stay in a Historic Castle
It's important to manage expectations. While the setting is undeniably grand, the service and upkeep might not always align with the highest luxury hotel standards. The presence of fireplaces with live fires can add a charming ambiance, but be aware of potential scents if you are sensitive. The variety in room design means that not every room will appeal to every guest, so choosing wisely is key.
For those seeking a truly immersive castle experience, Schloss Hugenpoet provides that with its historic architecture and grounds. Just be prepared for a stay that blends old-world charm with modern hotel operations, which can sometimes lead to a less-than-perfect experience for some guests.
Gardens and Outdoor Activities
Beyond simple relaxation, the moat surrounding the castle adds a unique historical and natural element. One extraordinary sighting reported was an otter swimming in the moat, highlighting the natural beauty and unexpected wildlife encounters possible in this serene environment. The gardens are well-maintained and provide a lovely backdrop for photography, especially during spring and summer when everything is in bloom.
These outdoor spaces are not just for hotel guests; they are a key part of the appeal for day visitors looking to enjoy the ambiance of the castle and its surroundings. Whether you're enjoying a coffee and cake or simply taking a walk, the gardens offer a delightful experience.
Events and Celebrations
Beyond weddings, the castle hosts various other events, including musical performances and festive occasions like Christmas celebrations. These events often feature live music, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. The fine dining restaurant also makes it a popular choice for special dinners and celebrations, accommodating various dietary needs.
When attending an event, be prepared for a sophisticated and memorable experience. The castle's ambiance, combined with professional service and often live entertainment, ensures a unique occasion.
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