Burghotel Staufeneck

A medieval castle perched in the Swabian Alps, converted into a luxury hotel with the kind of infinity pool view that makes you feel like you've annexed the valley. Stone and native wood run through the rooms, suites have sloped ceilings and soaking tubs, and the wellness center adds Roman baths, an ice grotto, and a log-cabin sauna. In winter, staff lead torchlit night hikes followed by mulled wine, which is either very romantic or very Grimm.

One honor, in evidence: