Hotel am Berg

When we asked the receptionist at the Hotel am Berg what was special about the place, he replied, “Every room is special.” Indeed, this eccentric pension, situated in an old world villa, is a very special establishment where each room represents an era in the evolution of post-war German aesthetics. Filled with authentic vintage pieces, the serene Hotel am Berg is an absolute knockout—and inexpensive, to boot.

The stately stone-and-brick villa that houses the am Berg was destroyed during WWII and completely restored in 1950. Today, it’s run by the original proprietor’s daughter, and its 20 guestrooms are individually decorated to represent ‘50s, ‘60s or ‘70s aesthetics, complete with vintage wallpaper, elaborate lighting pieces and grand armoires and wardrobes.

There is no one unifying aesthetic here, so some rooms may seem cluttered. Don’t expect corporate slickness or the latest gadgets at the Hotel am Berg. Most rooms, however, are a good size, and benefit from high ceilings. All are equipped with a telephone and TV.

All bathrooms at the Hotel am Berg have been renovated and feature sparkling new tiles and high-pressure showers. Some rooms come with bathtubs and balconies (ask for these, as they do not cost extra). And attention, solo Cheapos: Two tiny but charming singles with shared bathrooms can be had for a low price. (All other rooms have private facilities.)

Charming as it is, the Hotel am Berg does have a few minor drawbacks. It’s a steep, one-block hike to the nearest transit station (Frankfurt Südbahnhof), and the hotel does not have an elevator, only creaky wooden steps that may wake sensitive sleepers. Still, who’s complaining when there’s a lush tea garden?

We love the location, too, a quiet enclave within 10 minutes from the non-touristy eateries and shops of Textorstrasse.

In true Hotel am Berg style, the breakfast room, where the morning meal is served for an additional fee, is still swingin’ in the Sixties.