A warm ray of sunshine in the heart of Frankenberg
Hotel Die Sonne Frankenberg
On the historic market square of Frankenberg, where the impressive town hall with its ten towers and carved figures by Philipp Soldan greets you, Hotel Die Sonne Frankenberg shines as an inviting place full of character. What once started as an inn in 1833 has now grown into a refined boutique hotel – but the warmth of hospitality still runs deep through its walls. After a large-scale restoration in 2007, three monumental buildings from the 16th century were brought back to life: the Alte Brauhaus, the Bürgerhaus and the Stadtweinhaus. The hotel has 63 rooms and suites, each uniquely designed – from charming wooden beam ceilings to bright rooms with a Mediterranean feel. Here, you don’t just stay in a room, but in a piece of history that has been carefully styled with modern comfort. The rooms are spacious, stylish, and have a warm, sunny atmosphere. And whether you sleep on the second floor where beer was once brewed, or stay in the former wine house: you can feel the soul of the building. The team – close, skilled and dedicated – doesn’t see it as just work, but as a calling: to give you a stay to remember. Many employees have been with the hotel for years, some even come from Frankenberg itself. Their knowledge of the region, sincere interest and personal approach make the difference.
Dining under a lucky star
Philipp Soldan*
An evening at restaurant Philipp Soldan is not just dinner, it’s an experience – and you feel that the moment you step over the stone threshold. In the vaulted cellar of the former Stadtweinhaus, a culinary world has been created where refinement and warmth come together. Chef Erik Arnecke and his team – each a craftsman with a heart for the trade – cook here at star level, without losing the human touch. The kitchen is inspired by the nature of the Ederbergland, by regional products from friendly farmers, and by worldly techniques that bring the plate to life. Each dish is layered, surprising and harmonious. Think perfectly cooked cod with medlar and green olive, or a summery refined dish of pasture chicken with apricot, mushrooms and lovage. The atmosphere is relaxed and open. No white gloves or stiff faces, but a team that greets you by name, truly listens, and speaks passionately about wine, region and origin. Also special is the open wine experience: two walk-in wine rooms invite you – together with the sommelier – to choose your bottle. The wine list is a treasure chest full of character wines from Germany, France and beyond. Here you literally dine under a lucky star. And whether you come as a gourmet or a curious newcomer: at Philipp Soldan you are welcomed with open arms and refined flavors.
Classic German cuisine with a global twist
Sonne Stuben
Having lunch or dinner at Sonne Stuben feels like coming home to a familiar yet surprising kitchen. In the heart of the hotel – where wine was once served and market traders gathered – chefs Markus Willich and Timo Schröder cook with courage and love. The menu features German classics, but with a worldly outlook and a modern touch. Think slow-braised venison ragout with creamy kohlrabi and mushrooms. Or choose the vegetarian chickpea curry with coconut and couscous, where aromas from faraway places merge with local ingredients. The dishes are honest, generous and surprisingly simple – always seasonal and often from producers in the immediate area. The atmosphere? Relaxed, warm and welcoming – with a view of the historic town square or the cozy sun terrace. You dine in one of the three charming ‘Stuben’, each with its own character. In summer you sit outside under the canopies, overlooking the liveliness of Frankenberg and the sound of the fountain in the background. The service is attentive, hospitable, and knows many regular guests by name. No standard service, but sincere attention – whether you come alone with a book or join a festive family dinner.
A place of rest for body and soul
SonneSpa
Hidden behind the timber-framed facades lies an unexpected oasis: the SonneSpa, an intimate wellness space where you can leave everything behind for a while. Not a massive wellness complex, but a carefully created place for rest, recovery and reconnection – with yourself. It begins the moment you smell the essential oils, the soft lighting embraces you, and time seems to slow down. You’ll find a Finnish sauna, bio sauna, steam bath and relaxation area – small, refined and just right. But what really makes it special is the team. The therapists work with care, sense what you need and create treatments that match your rhythm. Whether you choose a relaxing massage with warm herbal oil, a deep facial or a body wrap with local ingredients: everything is focused on your recovery. Here, you are not “just another guest”, but surrounded with sincere care. For those who want to go a step further, there are yoga sessions, holistic packages or duo treatments to enjoy together. Afterwards, a cup of herbal tea awaits in the lounge, or a quiet walk through the garden.
KEY FEATURES AND SERVICES
Ettlingen
Ederbergland
Kassel
reviews
The three lovingly restored buildings in the heart of the old town are a sight in themselves. In the cellar of the centuries-old Stadtweinhaus you’ll find the hotel’s fine dining restaurant: chic, modern and relaxed. Chef Erik Arnecke prepares a creative five-course menu in the open kitchen, with refined combinations such as North Sea plaice with Irish oyster, bacon emulsion and watercress cream. Upgrades such as Japanese Wagyu and an international cheese selection are available. The wine list is extensive and well curated.
Michelin*
“Hospitality is my finest challenge”
"Being a host and giving people a nice break from everyday life is the most beautiful task imaginable – and always a new, exciting challenge." - Sebastian Steuber
General Manager: Sebastian Steuber
Chefs: Erik Arnecke (Philipp Soldan) & Markus Willich (Sonne Stuben)