AHORN Berghotel Friedrichroda

What People are saying

Experience socialist holidays at capitalist prices

Rainer Won 31/05/2017 07:13

This place will allow you to get a taste of mass tourism east German style. Not much changed since the days of communism.
A monstrous concrete building of 500+ rooms, endless hallways inside, rooms showing much wear and tear (bordering on neglect and disrepair). Looking from the outside we had the impression that some floors or sections are no longer rented to guests (torn curtains, blind windows ...)
Guests are managed like cattle.
Decor is early eighties style. Not actually that old, it just seems those who are responsible like it that way.
On site pools and sauna are okay, but not great; indoor pool very crowded and in need of cleaning - our kids routinely explained the various items the spotted on the bottom, including hair and other not so hygienic items -- outdoor pool is nice until it closes too early, see below)
Specific challenges we had:
Our booking was lost. First response that there is no availability. After producing written booking confirmation, three clerks were needed to find some solution.
First room then offered was on ground floor facing the courtyard where live music is playing noon to late every day. We then took a room out back also on ground floor (smaller, no balcony ... so much for the "panorama view" we booked, and no compensation for choosing a lower category room).
On one of the hottest days (33 degree C), it was not possible to keep the outdoor pool open after 6 pm, reason being "it is the posted time".
Free parking as advertised did not exist.
Dining hall seats 500+ people. And is packed most mornings and evenings. Noise level is significant. Food buffets have some selection, but again it is clear that this is mass produced: Serve yourself from large steel bins, after waiting in line. Drinks served at table, be patient for your order to arrive. Staff is friendly enough, but clearly on minimum wage and not too experienced.
HOWEVER, it is a great location. If you actually manage to have a room up high, the views are surely nice. Lots of things to do around this place (of the hiking / biking / outdoor variety, skiing in winter).
They offer guided tours to some nearby attractions (groups of 20+).

Enjoyable week stay

keith con 15/05/2017 17:01

Stayed at the Berghotel from 6th May to 13th May 2017 we were part of a twinning group our hosts the Germans had chosen this hotel for all the groups. The hotel is in a beautiful setting the hotel is surround with forest. The Azaldo restaurant & cafe is situated on the 12th floor giving spectacular views. The food was good the Staff very friendly and helpful. There is a large swimming pool, sauna, Gym ect. We flew into Frankfurt where our hosts met us with a coach for our transfer it was about a 3 hour journey but for us it was well worth it.

Very good hotel for a family vacation

Anki_Mumon 22/08/2016 15:59

We recently stayed in the hotel for 3 nights. The Hotel is situated on a hill top near the small town of Friedrichroda (around 10 mins walk uphill). The Hotel provides perfect views of the The Thuringian Forest. The famous hiking path Rennsteig runs through it.

The Hotel is recommended for either families with young kids or old people. Some of the positives are:
1. Beautiful views with Options for hiking, nordic walking through the forests
2. Friendly staff who is always willing to help
3. Really nice breakfast
4. Plenty of options to keep the kids engaged - Swimming pools, Play Areas, Theaters, evening Entertainment etc.

Areas where the Hotel can improve:
1. Wi-Fi: The speed is painfully slow
2. The rooms need a bit of upliftment.

Overall, we had a pleasant stay.

Enjoyable Night's Stay

sburke14on 26/07/2016 10:10

Every summer we travel to the Czech Republic and break up our journey with a night at a hotel in Germany. This year we stayed at the Ahorn Berghotel in Friedrichroda. We chose this particular hotel based on price and the fact that it had a restaurant - we want hot food after a drive of 600 miles. First impressions are one of surpise at the sheer size of this hotel - you can see if about 10 miles away on the A4 Autobahn. It is massive and is more of a holiday resort than a standard hotel. On arrival we were made very welcome and were advised to proceed straight to dinner as the half board buffet would be closing in 30 minutes ( we could have taken up the offer of vouchers to spend in the steak restaurant , but declined ). There wasn't a lot of food left, but what was on offer was great after our drive. The service from the staff was great and we were made to feel very welcome. After dinner we relaxed in the entertainment area where a local covers band played some old favourites - our 2 year old enjoyed having a dance on the dance floor ! We had a double room plus child roll away bed on the ninth floor with a view of the forest. It was quiet and finished simply and could probably do with an update - but this is reflected in the price I guess. The only thing I would criticise is the lack of air con in the room. Breakfast is available in two areas off one huge dining room ( the previous evening's entertainment area ) with lots of tables reserved for coach parties, however we did find a table very quickly. The food available was an extensive selection of bread, cheese, salami, hams, cereals, fruits and a crepe bar. If you are used to staying in Germany, this will meet your expectations - I was very happy with breakfast to be honest. Check out was swift and easy with a courteous receptionist making things all very pleasant. The walk back to the car park was a bit of a trek but I could have brought the car closer to the exit - one to be remembered for next time. Overall I enjoyed our brief stay and would stay there again without hesitation ( maybe even stay a little longer ).

Acceptable for low price

Paris2014Septemberon 02/08/2015 20:18

It's a big hotel with great panorama view. Good choice for nordic walking, running or hiking in the forest in the mountains. The restaurant is good and varied. The staff is moderately kind and helpful. The worst is some strange smell all over the corridors.