Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten - a Historical Landmark Featuring the three Michelin-starred Restaurant Haerlin
- laurie2769
- Aug 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 29
Founded in 1897 by Friedrich Haerlin, Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten has long stood as Hamburg’s crown jewel of hospitality. What began as a modest guesthouse soon distinguished itself with groundbreaking innovations like central heating and refined dining that set a new standard of luxury. During World War II, it housed the British army headquarters before reopening in 1952, eventually joining the Fairmont collection in 2007. Today, this lakeside icon seamlessly blends historic grandeur with sophisticated modernity—an alchemy perhaps best embodied by its crown jewel: the three Michelin-starred Restaurant Haerlin.
LOCATION
Set along the tranquil western shore of Hamburg’s Inner Alster Lake, the hotel enjoys one of the city’s most coveted addresses. Here, glimmering waters and graceful swans serve as your morning view, while the elegant promenades of Jungfernstieg and Neuer Wall lie just steps away. With the State Opera House and other cultural gems nearby.
ACCOMMODATIONS
With 156 rooms and suites, no two alike, the Fairmont Vier Jahreszeiten offers a masterclass in tailored comfort and old-world charm. Every space is curated with careful attention—from hand-selected furnishings to fine fabrics—and infused with the hotel’s signature blend of warmth and refinement.
The Bel Etage on the fifth floor boasts rooms with private balconies and sweeping lake views—a tranquil perch for morning coffee or evening reflection. Deluxe double rooms cater to those desiring both generous space and a choice between city quiet or lakeside vistas.
Among the signature suites, the Penthouse Suite impresses with a vast living area and panoramic balcony, while the Admiral’s Suite evokes maritime heritage through nautical touches. The Ralph Lauren Suite, designed exclusively for the hotel, channels the elegance of jet-set glamour.
Wander the hallways and you’ll be rewarded with timeless treasures: original parquet floors, antique wood paneling, stained-glass windows once gifted to loyal guests, and a vintage elevator that continues to glide through the decades with grace.
DINING
Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the hotel experience, and nowhere is that more evident than at Restaurant Haerlin. Under the visionary leadership of Chef Christoph Rüffer, the restaurant has ascended to the culinary stratosphere, earning its third Michelin star in 2025—a rare feat in Germany.
For a more relaxed yet elegant experience, I dined at the GRILL, a Hamburg institution since 1926. The ambiance feels both cozy and grand, with white-jacketed waitstaff and a menu of refined French classics. Try to secure a seat in the Oval Salon, where hand-painted murals by artist Jorinde Voigt shimmer with embedded diamonds—an artistic tribute to Hamburg’s fabled “Fairy Pond.”
Those seeking global flair will be captivated by NIKKEI NINE, where the bold fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine is presented with theatrical flair. From the sizzle of the robata grill to the pulsing energy of the adjacent DJ-led bar, it’s an exhilarating counterpoint to the hotel’s traditional elegance.
Mornings begin at Café Condi, beloved for its sumptuous breakfast spreads and sunlit charm. Later, the cozy Wohnhalle—affectionately called “Hamburg’s living room”—offers the perfect setting for afternoon tea or a quiet conversation by the fire. Nearby, the DECK 4 and Condi Lounge invite lingering over drinks with lake views.
And don’t miss the two-story Jahreszeiten Bar—Hamburg’s smallest and most intimate bar. Wrapped in rich wood and fitted with Rolls-Royce leather seats, it evokes the glamour of a bygone era. Smoking is permitted, making it a rare find in today’s hospitality scene. Beverage Manager Enrico Wilhelm’s impressive collection of whiskies and spirits ensures a memorable nightcap.
SPA
Occupying nearly 10,000 square feet on the hotel’s uppermost floor, the Vier Jahreszeiten Spa & Fitness is a sanctuary in the sky. With its sleek New York loft design, the gym offers advanced equipment, while separate saunas and a serene steam bath promote relaxation. Guests can choose from over 100 customized treatments—from massages and facials to private training sessions.
The rooftop terrace, with its city views and tranquil lounge areas, offers a rarefied retreat above Hamburg’s bustling streets. Whether indulging in a signature treatment or hosting an elegant private event, the spa’s refined setting and service elevate every experience.
Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
Neuer Jungfernstieg 9-14
20354 Hamburg, Germany
+49 40 34940