Waldhotel am See Berlin-Schmöckwitz

The hotel's idyllic setting directly on a lake, nestled within a tranquil forest, is its most memorable attribute, offering a peaceful escape from city life. This makes it an ideal choice for nature lovers and couples seeking a quiet retreat, as many guests praise the serene environment perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors. The presence of a friendly peacock roaming the grounds adds a unique and charming touch, often delighting visitors and contributing to the hotel's distinctive character. The hotel also caters well to families due to its spacious grounds and opportunities for outdoor activities like boat rentals, making it easy to explore the picturesque lake. For those who enjoy active holidays, it's particularly suitable for cyclists, with dedicated facilities for bikes. To enhance your stay, guests suggest managing expectations regarding modern luxury and instead embracing the hotel's rustic charm, focusing on its natural surroundings for a truly relaxing experience.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the hotel's various recreational facilities that complement its natural setting. A notable feature is the on-site boat rental, allowing visitors to explore the lake directly from the property, which is a significant draw for many. For cyclists, the provision of a secure bike garage is highly valued, ensuring safe storage for their equipment. The hotel also offers a table tennis area, providing a casual recreational option. While some older promotional materials might suggest otherwise, guests clarify that a sauna and fitness center are currently not available, having been removed or never present. Basic conveniences like free Wi-Fi are generally available, though some guests report connectivity issues. The overall impression is that the amenities are functional and geared towards outdoor enjoyment rather than luxury.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is quite mixed, with many guests describing the accommodations as basic, simple, and somewhat dated, reminiscent of an older style. While some rooms are noted as adequately clean, others report issues such as dust, musty odors, or mold in the bathrooms. The beds are a frequent point of discussion; many find them too small or narrow for two adults, and some describe them as uncomfortable or too hard, though a few mention newer, more comfortable beds. The bathrooms receive considerable criticism, often described as very small, with broken tiles, lacking a shower hose, hairdryer, or cosmetic mirror. A recurring concern is the design where the toilet is combined within the shower space, leading to unhygienic conditions and water spreading across the floor. Noise from heating pipes is occasionally mentioned, but overall, the rooms are generally considered quiet.

Dining & Food Quality
The dining experience, particularly the breakfast, garners varied feedback. Most guests describe the breakfast as simple, basic, and with limited selection, often noting a lack of variety in bread and cold cuts. Some express disappointment with the quality of the coffee, often served from large dispensers, and report issues with items not being refilled promptly, especially during busy periods. However, other guests find the breakfast sufficient and satisfactory for their needs, appreciating the available options like scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. The on-site restaurant offers a small menu, but the food quality for dinner is generally praised as tasty and fresh, with some highlighting good beer options. There are also mentions of a snack bar and opportunities for coffee and cake, particularly enjoyable on the outdoor terrace.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as a major positive, offering a tranquil and secluded setting directly on a lake and surrounded by a forest. This provides a peaceful retreat away from city noise, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature. While it is situated about 20 kilometers from the city center, making it less convenient for daily sightseeing in Berlin without a car, it is well-suited for those prioritizing quietude. Public transport options, including a bus stop within walking distance and connections to the light rail, are available for reaching the city. For guests arriving by car, free on-site parking is provided, though some note that parking spaces can be limited. The proximity to walking trails, small bathing coves, and the lake itself offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives positive remarks for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Many guests appreciate the warm welcome and the willingness of the team to assist with requests, such as providing extra beds or accommodating early check-ins. The check-in process is often described as quick and uncomplicated. However, some guests note that the staff, particularly those in the dining areas, can appear overwhelmed during peak times, leading to slower service or issues with buffet replenishment. There are also occasional comments about language barriers, with some staff members struggling with basic English, which can pose challenges for international travelers. Despite these minor points, the overall impression is that the staff is dedicated and strives to provide good service.

Additional Information
Guests frequently note the hotel's distinctive East German charm, often describing its decor and overall feel as reminiscent of the 1980s or a former youth hostel. This unique retro style is either embraced as nostalgic or seen as outdated, depending on individual preference. A charming and frequently mentioned unique feature is the hotel's resident peacock, which freely roams the grounds and delights many visitors. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, welcoming guests traveling with their animals. While the grounds offer various amenities, some guests point out that the outdoor areas, including the garden and terraces, could benefit from more maintenance and care. The hotel's potential for improvement is often discussed, with many guests believing it could be transformed into a true gem with further investment and modernization.