Das Stue

The Scene

Tiergarten can be a bit off the beaten path as far as hotels are concerned, but that only makes Das Stue even more special. Where else can you see animals in the zoo from your room? Where else can you be so removed from yet still so near the city? Frankly speaking, Das Stue is perfectly located for the adult who wants to be a kid again---but remain (somewhat) grown-up. At Das Stue, you’re right at the gates of beautiful and expansive Tiergarten. Stroll or row (boats are available for rent at the Neuer See); either way, you’ll see Berlin at its finest. Deceptively close from the vantage point of Das Stue, Zoo Berlin is about 15 minutes’ walk away but worth the trip. Not much further is KaDeWe, Berlin’s most famous (and fun!) department store (about a 20 minute walk from Das Stue).

The Concept

Conceived as a “celebration of socializing”, Das Stue refurbished the stately former Danish embassy and transformed it into one of Berlin’s top hotels and destinations. In fact, its name means “living room” in Danish. There’s a sophisticated elegance pervading the place even as it’s peppered with fanciful animal statues of some of the nearby Zoo Berlin’s residents. Though Das Stue channels a very classic style in its architecture, it’s got a modern mindset in its design and amenities. All in one place you’ll find an award-winning spa (with pool), a Michelin-starred restaurant (Cinco by Catalan chef Paco Perez), a less formal eatery (aptly called Casual, also by Paco Perez), and more wine and spirits than you have time to imbibe in the stylish bar (400+ Spanish and German wines plus a host of noteworthy whiskies and cognacs). For an even more discreet hideaway, retreat to the Library on every landing next to the main staircase where you’ll find plenty of reading material in English (and German), whimsical animal-based art, and a cozy seat all your own.

The Look

Palatial yet cool, Das Stue supplies a high-end wonderland of contemporary art and furniture. In fact, if you’re interested in any piece, you can look up its designer and order it from the magazine conveniently provided. The calming neutral palette lets the abundance of luxurious materials shine rather than colors, but the punctuation of colorful (and unexpected) animal statues brings Das Stue back down to earth. Floor-to-ceiling windows in every room invite the beautiful outdoors in; when, we ask, was the last time you woke up in the middle of the city and heard birds singing outside your window? All rooms and spaces---but especially the suites---feel as though you’re in someone’s stylish living space, featuring contemporary but comfortable seating, just the right amount of color in, say, the pillows and, of course, a cozy rug. No matter what room you’re in, you won’t feel pressed for space; even the most basic rooms have a closet and oodles of square footage.

In Short

If you like having it all, Das Stue provides. Take the best of Berlin’s cuisine, hospitality, and natural scenery all in whilst enjoying Berlin’s most cool luxury hotel.