An homage to Hamburg, The Fontenay, located along the scenic shores of Lake Alster, is a modern city resort that balances urban sophistication with the tranquility of its park surroundings. Featuring captivating architecture, this elegant hotel, opened in 2018, embodies the essence of the city itself—welcoming, cosmopolitan, and subtly luxurious.
Designed by renowned Hamburg-based architect Jan Störmer, The Fontenay embodies the city’s affinity for water. Envisioned as a “Hotel in the Park,” its organic design, derived from three intertwining circles, creates a structure without a backside, making the hotel feel like a natural extension of the park. This fluid design floods every corner with natural light, while at the center, you’ll find elevators and a glass-enclosed courtyard featuring trees, alongside a stunning 27-meter-high atrium. The circular theme continues throughout the building, with concave and convex facades, ensuring that every room enjoys an outward view.
The area surrounding The Fontenay showcases Hamburg’s lush greenery and architectural charm. In the Rotherbaum district, English Tudor-style residences blend with elegant Wilhelminian buildings. The inviting banks of the Alster offer a range of water activities, from stand-up paddling to sailing. With direct access to the cycle path along the Alster and a short distance to the city center, guests can enjoy both Hamburg’s natural beauty and the urban hustle and bustle. The Fontenay’s grounds feature extensive lawns and over fifty large trees, including oriental plane trees that are up to 250 years old. This serene address at 10 Fontenay is within walking distance of Hamburg’s fashionable neighborhoods and the vibrant HafenCity.
A Warm Welcome
Upon our arrival, we were warmly invited to the summer terrace of The Fontenay Bar on the sixth floor. Before settling into our room, we enjoyed refreshing welcome drinks and snacks while soaking in the stunning views of Hamburg’s skyline and the shimmering Alster lake. This delightful introduction made us feel instantly at home, highlighting The Fontenay as a place where guests can connect with their surroundings and experience genuine hospitality.
Home Away from Home
The Fontenay’s rooms and suites exude effortless luxury with expansive, light-filled spaces. Each room features curved walls, panoramic windows, and balconies with views of the park or lake. Warm hues of turquoise and beige echo the natural beauty outside, creating a serene atmosphere. The oak flooring, sourced from the Fontenay Abbey in Burgundy, France, and Danish designer furnishings by Georg Jensen add to the understated elegance.
We enjoyed our Fontenay Deluxe room, which featured curved walls, comfortable beds, and delightful amenities. The soothing scents created a spa-like ambiance, while high ceilings enhanced the sense of openness. Our private balcony offered a lovely spot to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views, with warm tones reflecting the lakeside setting.
For those seeking extra space and luxury, The Fontenay offers 17 suites, each with separate bedrooms and living areas, along with balconies or terraces boasting pleasant park or lake views. With curved walls and large panoramic windows, nature becomes part of the experience. The warm, bright hues blend seamlessly with exquisite materials, reflecting the hotel’s unique lakeside location.
The Alster Suite, located on the fourth floor, stands out with its magnificent lake views. It features a spacious living room, two bedrooms with extra-long beds, a dining room for ten, and a fully equipped kitchen. The luxurious natural stone bathrooms include a master bath with a bathtub and rain shower, and a private balcony invites guests to savor the enchanting scenery.
Lakeside Luxury
Our stay included access to the Fontenay Spa, where we enjoyed rejuvenating treatments that enhanced our relaxation. This exclusive city spa in Hamburg offers a serene vibe, providing an escape from the hectic pace of everyday life.
We particularly enjoyed the sauna, which, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful in the world. Its design is exceptional, offering a floor-to-ceiling panoramic view of Hamburg at sunset as we watched the sun dip below the horizon. It was a memorable experience. Afterward, we cooled off by the infinity pool.
The Fontenay’s lakeside location is nothing short of idyllic. Just outside the hotel, a 7.5-kilometer path loops around Lake Alster, perfect for jogging, cycling, or a leisurely stroll. I personally ran this route during my stay, and it was one of the most scenic runs I’ve ever experienced, offering panoramic views of Hamburg’s skyline and the serene waters of the lake. Whether you’re an early morning runner or prefer an afternoon walk, cycling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply picnicking in the nearby lakeside parks and harbors, there’s something for everyone.
The hotel itself offers stunning views from almost every angle. The balconies in the rooms continue the theme of openness and connection to nature, making it feel as though the hotel is part of the landscape. Claudia, The Fontenay’s Director of Public Relations, aptly described this fusion: “We offer our guests a quiet, sustainable form of luxury. It’s not about being boastful—it’s about creating an atmosphere of unobtrusive elegance, where nature and city life come together.”
We offer our guests a quiet, sustainable form of luxury. It’s not about being boastful—it’s about creating an atmosphere of unobtrusive elegance, where nature and city life come together.
Claudia Bellmann, Director of Public Relations at The Fontenay
A Gourmet Haven
Home to the renowned Lakeside Restaurant, which earned its second Michelin star in April 2023, The Fontenay offers more than just world-class cuisine. The restaurant provides a dining experience immersed in light and air, with breathtaking views of Lake Alster and Hamburg’s skyline. Chef Julian Stowasser and his team craft bold, unconventional dishes that blend innovation with the highest quality ingredients.
“I am touched and full of pride for my team. We are passionate artists who love preparing exceptional culinary delights for our guests, and this award is a great motivation for us,” Chef Stowasser shared. The team first received a Michelin star in March 2021, and the second star marks a new level of recognition in the gastronomy scene, where the Michelin Guide ranks among the most prestigious.
Reservations are highly recommended, as the Lakeside Restaurant is often fully booked. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to dine here during this stay but have already planned a visit for our next trip.
Meanwhile, we were thoroughly impressed by the Parkview Restaurant. Offering what is probably the best breakfast buffet we’ve ever experienced, it’s a must-try for any guest. The lunch and dinner options were equally delightful, showcasing a menu full of fresh, delicious dishes.
Parkview has become a personal favorite of mine. If I lived in Hamburg, I’d visit often. With its bright, airy atmosphere and stunning garden views by the lake, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a meal—whether with family, business associates, friends, or even alone for some peaceful downtime.
A Timeless Experience
The Fontenay is a reflection of Hamburg’s unique character, where the vibrant energy of the city harmonizes with the tranquility of nature. It offers a subtle form of luxury that invites guests to experience the best of Hamburg in an elegant, understated manner.
For those seeking a refined and peaceful escape in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities, The Fontenay provides the perfect blend of luxury, nature, and culture. Whether it’s your first visit or a return to this lakeside sanctuary, the hotel promises an experience that is both timeless and distinctly Hamburg.
Experience the essence of Hamburg at The Fontenay, where cosmopolitan spirit meets serene hospitality, welcoming guests from around the world.
