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If you’re looking for a hotel with a difference, or need to book a lot of hotel rooms for a trade fair or conference, then why not book a hotel ship? Crossgates is a British company that has set up a fl eet of hotel ships in Germany to cater for the big trade fairs in Cologne, Düsseldorf and Frankfurt. The ships are moored on the river, in the centre of town, giving fast access to all the major sights. Luxury is guaranteed with wood-panelled public spaces and all the amenities you’d fi nd in a normal fi rst-class hotel.
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This huge hotel couldn’t have a better position. It’s situated next to Rudolfplatz, so guests have fast and easy access to all of the city’s main attractions. The hotel is all you would expect from a well-known chain; the staff are friendly and service is effi cient. A fully equipped business centre and secretarial services ensure support for busy executives, and the sauna, pool and fi tness area give guests the option to unwind in a laid-back atmosphere. The Le Bouquet and Entrecote restaurants offer top-class food in a stylish setting, and the two bars make for a great place to spend an evening.
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The Dorint Sofi tel an der Messe is relatively new to the city. Catering mostly to trade-fair guests, the hotel is situated just across the river from the cathedral and the old town, practically next door to the trade-fair grounds (Messe). Behind the glass and steel façade you’ll fi nd elegant rooms tastefully furnished, and conference and banqueting facilities to suit every occasion. One thing not to be missed is the ‘Wellness’ area, where you can swim in a black granite pool and bury yourself in white fl uffy towels before diving into the sauna.
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Opened in May 2003 at a cost of 220 million euros, the InterContinental Cologne is situated in the heart of Cologne – only a few steps away from the old town and the cathedral. Despite winning a ‘Bad Lemon’ award for the city’s worst architecture in 2003, the hotel is beautifully furnished and designed and has its very own Holmes Place gym, plus conference and banqueting facilities. Another highlight is Harry’s Bar (see p274), with its grand piano and lounge singer, it’s fast becoming one of the places to be seen in Cologne.
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The Maritim hotel is one of Cologne’s river landmarks. Built in 1989, the centre of the hotel is a huge glass atrium with fantastic views of both the river and the cathedral. Lined with trees, shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafes, the main foyer makes a great place to spend time and browse. As well as the service and style of a four-star hotel, the Maritim also offers great conference and banqueting facilities plus a swimming pool, sauna, steam bath and solarium. Situated between the Altstadt and the river, this is the perfect base for exploring the city.
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