We awoke again to a pouring rain and again decided we would rather brave the rain and cold to spend more time in the city, then go on a tour of the salt mines. Katy with her umbrella and I adorning the blue pull over poncho I needed in Machu Piccu we headed back toward the old town. On our first day intown we went up the cable car thingy to the fort at 10 Euros each.
Today we took the elevator to the Monchebrg area and the Museum of Modern Art. We never stepped inside but explored the top of this mountain overlooking the city. The up and down price was 2.9 euros each and offered as nice a view, without the crowds.
About 500 meters from the museum sitting all by itself was this quaint little hotel named the Schloss Moenchstein. Built in 1350 ( that’s right 142 years before Chris found the US) we had to sneak inside for a peak. We were greeted by a lovely young maiden that escorted us to the glass room on the back side of the hotel for a view of the city.
After visiting this castle I had to check out the room rate. Rooms start at 275 Euros per night in the off season and rise to 1325 Euros for the Maria Theresia Suite during the summer Music Festival. I could not find it listed as an available hotel for a Priceline “Name Your Own Price” bid.
We ventured back down the mountain on a search for the T-shirt and struck out looking for a long sleeve model. But after rinsing out a few more things last night, I’m still good to go on to Innsbruck tomorrow. The weather is scheduled to be mid 60′s and light rain.
Sheraton Salzburg
This was the nicest hotel room we’ve had and in a great location close to everything in town. We walked to the hotel from the train station in about 15 minutes of level walking. The room was spacious and overlooked the Mirabell Gardens. The lobby area is very well appointed and the hotel appears to cater to higher end guests.
The only English speaking channels were CNN and BBC, internet was $25 per day in our room and free in the lobby on 3 computers provided. If you use your own laptop in the lobby, be prepared to pay the big rate.
As I mentioned earlier, breakfast was about $30 each. We crossed the main street and went to the Heart of Joy Café, one block away for about $20 total. The owners were very kind, hospitable and we enjoyed their cafe with free internet.
Although an elegant hotel, it has a problem. The housekeeping staff walked in on us at least 4 times without knocking. All of a sudden, they are just in the room. I understand they want to do turn down service in the evening, but early afternoon during nap time is uncalled for. They had already cleaned the room for the day.
I would stay here again and love the location, but it is not for a frugal traveler. Use your points for the room, then go outside the hotel for meals and internet.
