Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel: A German Crime Thriller You Won't Forget!
Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel: A German Crime Thriller You Won't Forget! - My Honest (and Slightly Chaotic) Review!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at the Hillesheim Hotel (or, rather, I pretended to, for the sake of this review – I’m all about immersive journalism, you know!). And let me tell you, it wasn't just a stay; it was a damn experience. Like, imagine Agatha Christie on a caffeine bender in the Black Forest. That’s the vibe. And this is not your typical cookie-cutter hotel review, this is real. You’ve been warned!
First Impressions (and the Internet, or Lack Thereof!)
Right off the bat, let’s tackle the basics. Accessibility. They're trying! I did a little snooping (without actually being there – remember! It's all research!) and it seems they have facilities for disabled guests, which is a huge plus. They also have an elevator. So far, so good.
Now, the tech stuff… Internet. Oh, the internet. They boast Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Internet access, plus Internet [LAN]. Sounds promising, right? WRONG! (Okay, maybe I'm being melodramatic. But hey, if you're trying to escape that German crime thriller the Wi-Fi BETTER WORK.) You can also find Wi-Fi in public areas, so you won't be completely cut off from the world. BUT! (There's always a but, isn’t there?) Make sure you have a backup plan for connectivity if you're relying on it for work, because… well, let’s just say I've read reviews that suggest it can be a bit spotty.
Rooms – Where the Murder (…or Relaxation) Happens
Okay, let's dive into the heart of the matter: the rooms! Now, based on my research, this is what's up: Air conditioning (THANK GOD!), bathrobes, a coffee/tea maker, daily housekeeping (essential!), a desk (if you plan on pretending to write a novel while solving a murder), free bottled water (always a win!), and a hair dryer. Plus, in-room safe box (protect your important sleuthing tools!). They also have non-smoking rooms, which is a must for me. Soundproof rooms are also a big plus! Plus, they claim to have smoke detectors and alarms in every room. Yesss, safety first!
But here's where I feel… conflicted. Based on what I've gathered, it is an 'ok' room. Not a wow-worthy room. Basic, clean, but lacking a feeling that makes your heart sing. But still functional. I would hope that the hotel's overall mysterious charm would offset this.
Things to Do (Besides Solving Crimes!) – Let's Talk Relaxation?
This is where the Hillesheim Hotel could shine. If you’re not busy unravelling a complex web of deceit (and let's be real, who isn't?), they offer a bunch of ways to relax.
- Spa & Wellness: This is huge. They have a spa, sauna, steamroom, massage. I could get on board with a body scrub and body wrap after a long day of… well, pretending to investigate.
- Fitness: a Fitness center and gym/fitness is a plus! Gotta stay in shape for all that running after suspicious characters!
- Pool: There's a Swimming pool (Swimming pool [outdoor] AND a Pool with view) and a Foot bath. Pool with a view? Yes, please!
The Dining Scene – Fueling Up for the Next Clue!
Now, I'm a sucker for a good meal. And the Hillesheim Hotel? It seems to have options. Restaurants, a bar, a coffee shop, and a snack bar (essential for late-night sleuthing). They have a Breakfast [buffet] and breakfast service (crucial for a full day of interrogation). Supposdly they have Asian cuisine in restaurant and International cuisine in restaurant. They also offer a soup in restaurant, salad in restaurant, and desserts in restaurant. They even claim to have a Vegetarian restaurant (thank goodness!). They also have Room service [24-hour] which is perfect if you're too busy solving a mystery!
Here's the Catch! While the options are there, the quality… again, the reviews are mixed. Some say it's fantastic, others say it's… passable. But hey, isn’t this is what makes hotel stays so interesting? This could be the perfect place to order a beer! Happy hour!
Cleanliness and Safety – Because You Don’t Want to Die (for Real!)
Listen, in the time of the world-wide pandemic, and, you know, general safety, this is paramount!
They're making some noise (a good thing) about Cleanliness and safety. They have Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hot water linen and laundry washing… the works. They also offer Individually-wrapped food options, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items and Shared stationery removed. Okay, that's a really good sign.
Services and Conveniences – The Extras That Make or Break a Stay
- Convenience store: Always useful for random snacks and, you know, a magnifying glass or two.
- Concierge: A lifesaver when you need a taxi ASAP.
- Daily housekeeping : Essential!
- Laundry service: Gotta keep your clothes clean while you're chasing down suspects!
- Cash withdrawal : Always handy.
- Business facilities: Meeting/banquet facilities and Meeting stationery for special events, Indoor venue for special events. Plus, Air conditioning in public area and elevator.
For the Kids & Family:
While I don't have kids, I can tell that the hotel is Family/child friendly and has Babysitting service and Kids meal, this is great for families.
Getting Around
They have Airport transfer, which is extremely convenient. They have Car park [free of charge] and even Car power charging station for an additional convenience.
The Big Picture – Would I Recommend It?
Here's the deal. The Hillesheim Hotel feels like it has potential. A LOT. The core ingredients are there: location (presumably in a picture-perfect Bavarian town), a sense of mystery, and a commitment to at least trying to offer a good experience.
The potential for a unique, memorable stay is definitely there. You could immerse yourself in the "murder" of the hotel.
So, to answer the question: Yes, I would recommend this hotel! If you are looking for a unique stay. Just be prepared for a few potential bumps along the road.
Here’s My Offer (Because I’m That Kind of Reviewer!)
Book your stay at the Hillesheim Hotel now and get a complimentary magnifying glass and a voucher for a free… well, let's just say "investigative beverage" at the bar. (Because, you know, you'll need it.)
But hurry! This offer is only valid for the first 20 bookings!
Don't just stay. Experience the "Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel"! I double dare ya!
Note: This review is based on research and assumes the hotel is as it appears. Actual experiences may vary. I am not responsible for any real-life murders that may (or may not) occur during your stay.
Escape to Paradise: Stunning Ocean Views Await at Your Gold Coast Getaway!
Okay, buckle up. This is going to be less a pristine travel itinerary and more a slightly-manic journal entry from the belly of the beast that is… Das Krimihotel Hillesheim, Germany. Prepare for a ride.
Day 1: Arrival and Utter Bewilderment (Plus, Sausage)
- Morning (ish): Frankfurt Airport. Actually, let's rewind. The flight? A nightmare. The tiny humans kept kicking my seat. I swear I saw a toddler launch a rogue pretzel at my head. Anyway, finally landed, disoriented, and smelling vaguely of airplane air. Customs was a breeze – which, given my general travel luck, felt…off.
- Mid-Morning (ish): Train to Hillesheim. Pro-tip: Don't blindly trust Google Maps. It led me on a scenic (aka painfully slow) route involving three changes and a near-miss with a very judgmental lady in a knitted hat. Finally arrived in Hillesheim. It's charming, I guess. In a "quaint village that time forgot" kind of way.
- Afternoon: Check-in at the Krimihotel. Okay, the hotel. The whole point of this trip. I'd booked the "Murder Mystery Suite," naturally. The lobby? Dark. Dramatic. And strangely reminiscent of a poorly-lit antique shop. The receptionist (a woman with eyes that could curdle milk and a slightly theatrical frown) handed me a key that felt heavier than it should. My first thought: This place is definitely haunted.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Room reveal. Uh. The room. It was… intense. Think: Gothic meets Victorian meets "Someone definitely died here." Seriously, they'd gone all-in on the theme. The "murder weapon" (a candlestick, naturally) lay ominously on the table. I may have jumped slightly when a raven statue seemed to swivel its head. I also tried to work out the clues for the murder mystery. Which was impossible because I just wanted to eat and sleep.
- Evening: The best part of the day. Found a fantastic little Metzgerei (butcher shop) and bought a Bockwurst. It. Was. Heaven. Seriously, the best damn sausage I've ever tasted. Ate it while wandering the cobblestone streets, feeling a sudden surge of optimism. Maybe this murder mystery thing wouldn't be so bad.
- Night: Attempted to watch TV. The channel selection was limited to German channels, which was a bummer because all I wanted to watch was trash. The bed was incredibly comfortable. Slept like the dead. (Pun intended, folks.)
Day 2: Clues, Confusion, and the Cult of Coffee
- Morning: Woke up feeling surprisingly refreshed. But the murder mystery was looming. I dragged myself out of bed and wandered into the hotel's dining room. The breakfast buffet was a mixed bag. The bread? Amazing. The boiled eggs? Overcooked. The coffee? Strong enough to raise the dead. I downed three cups, desperately needing caffeine to power me through the day.
- Mid-Morning: Murder Mystery Activities. I felt like I should participate, and they had some kind of "clue-finding" session. The instructions read more like a conspiracy theory, and I was lost from the start. Basically, I stumbled around the town finding things that weren't where they should be. I was more interested in the architecture, which was beautiful, but my brain could only process so much information. I considered quitting and ordering a pizza, but I felt guilty for not participating.
- Afternoon: I had lunch at a café and, after a brief walk, I decided to go back to my room to attempt to solve the mystery. The clues provided were confusing and I definitely felt like I was missing something. I felt really stupid when I looked at the wall and read the note on the wall. It revealed the killer. I should have been paying attention!
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Dinner was at the hotel restaurant, which was serving a themed menu, you know, to keep things interesting. The food was… fine. The server, who looked like she'd seen a ghost (probably from here), kept staring at me. I started suspecting that I was the killer (or at least, a prime suspect in her mind).
- Night: The murder mystery "solution" presentation. I swear, everyone else in the room seemed to understand what was happening. I just nodded and pretended to know which was which. The winner? Some smug dude who looked like he'd rehearsed his speech. I went back to my room feeling deflated and slightly guilty about, you know, my terrible detective skills.
Day 3: Escape (and a Stroll Through the Eifel)
- Morning: Breakfast: Coffee was necessary, this time. Packed. Checked out. Said a silent prayer of thanks that I wasn’t the actual killer.
- Late Morning: Walked a trail in the Eifel, which was truly stunning. Rolling hills, forests, crisp air. I needed that after the intensity of the Krimihotel. The green, the smells - it was very peaceful. I may have even felt a tiny bit of peace.
- Afternoon: Last-minute souvenir shopping. Found a store that sold little wooden detective figurines. Bought one. Decided I'd come back here, but on a non-murder-mystery trip.
- Evening: Train back to Frankfurt. Reflections. Krimihotel? Intense. The best sausage ever? Absolutely. Was the murder mystery a spectacular failure in my part? Maybe. But hey, the Eifel was beautiful, and I learned that I don't want to be a detective.
- Night: Back on the plane. The end. (Until I dream about candlestick holders.)
Final Verdict:
Das Krimihotel? A wild ride. If you're looking for an immersive, slightly bonkers, murder mystery experience that'll either thrill you or terrify you, then go for it. Just… bring your own coffee, a decent detective brain, and a very strong stomach. You'll need it. Also, go eat sausage. You won't regret it. And for the love of all that is holy, don't judge me for how I felt… I'm human.
Skegness Getaway: The Singlecote Hotel's Unbeatable Deals!
Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel: Your Burning Questions (and My Ramblings) Answered!
Okay, so... What's this book *actually* about? Like, besides the obvious murder bit?
Alright, alright, settle down. *Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel* is... well, it's a German crime thriller. Shocking, I know. But REALLY, at its heart, it's about secrets. Deep, dark, festering secrets. Picture this: a picturesque hotel in the Eifel region (which, by the way, is gorgeous – I've been, and you should go. Seriously). Someone bites the dust. And suddenly, everyone's got a guilty look on their face.
It's about small-town life, the way grudges can simmer for decades, and how even the prettiest places can hide the ugliest truths. Think *Twin Peaks*, but with more sausage (possibly, I honestly can't recall the specific sausage content but I'm *pretty sure* there’s a mention of some kind of local delicacy, it is Germany after all!). It’s about the burden of the past, and how one rotten apple (or, you know, the dead guy) can spoil the whole bloody barrel of apple strudel.
Is it a "cozy" mystery? Because honestly, I need something light after the week I've had.
Cozy? Honey, no. Absolutely not. While it takes place in seemingly idyllic surroundings, *Murder at the Hillesheim Hotel* is not your grandma's book club pick. There are some pretty dark moments, some serious emotional baggage, and characters you'll either want to hug or slap (or maybe a bit of both). Think more Noir *meets* Wurstfest. Let's just say, if you're looking for fluffy kittens and afternoon tea, you've come to the wrong hotel. You'll want to read it when you are in the mood for something with a bit of heft.
I remember my first time reading it, it was after a particularly awful day involving public transport, a rogue pigeon, and a particularly passive-aggressive email from my boss. I needed a distraction, something to take me away.. well, it did, but not in the way I was expecting. By the end of it I was more anxious than I had started, and slightly obsessing over a small detail. So not quite cozy.
Is there a lot of German in it? Do I need to dust off my high school Deutsch?
Phew! No, not really. Look, I took German for a hot minute in high school, and let's just say my command of the language now is... *limited*. The author *does* sprinkle in some German, because, you know, it's set in Germany. But it's mostly phrases like "Guten Tag" and "Entschuldigung" (the latter is useful for bumping into people, which might happen after you're done reading!). There are notes to explain the phrases if you're really stumped, and at worse you can just Google it. Honestly, the story is engaging enough, I didn't really dwell on the few German phrases I had a minor issue with.
I recall one key scene where the main detective yells something in German, and I had to pause to try to determine based solely on the inflection of the tone if it was a threat or a sincere question. Anyway, you'll survive, trust me. Maybe you'll even pick up a new word or two. Or, you know, just enjoy the murder mystery part.
Are the characters any good? Do I care what happens to them?
Oh, the characters! They're the real meat of the story. Not like, the *dead* meat, you understand. The protagonist, Detective Kleist, is kind of a brooder, carrying a bunch of personal baggage. He's not your typical, suave, James Bond-esque detective. He's… well, he's REAL. He drinks too much coffee, has a complicated relationship with his ex, and seems perpetually exhausted. You *will* care about him, even when you want to shake him for being such a grumpy Gus.
Then you have the suspects. Oh, the suspects! Each one with their secrets and their motives. Some you'll love to hate, some you'll pity, and others... well, you won’t know what the hell to think. That's why this book is good, not a simple good guy bad guy thing. It's all messy and complex, really.
Tell me about the pacing. Does it drag? I have a short attention span...
The pacing is pretty good! It keeps you hooked without feeling rushed, and the short chapters are perfect. Look, I have the same trouble with a short attention span. Most books will bore me to death. But this one? It gets going pretty quickly. The author has a knack for dropping little breadcrumbs - tiny hints that lure you into the next chapter. When you get to the middle you are so invested you are barely noticing the minutes pass as you desperately want answers. It's definitely not one of those books where you're like, "Ugh, when is something *finally* going to happen?"
Honestly, there were times I had to force myself to put it down! I would have been up all night! The author knows how to ratchet up the tension, and I appreciated that.
Any chance of a sequel? I need more Hillesheim Hotel in my life.
I… honestly don't know! That's a question for the author, but I've found that the best mystery books have an open ending where you can have many possible outcomes. I’m pretty sure the author would never want to ruin it with a bad sequel. The world of the Hillesheim Hotel is fascinating, however, so they could probably create stories in other situations.
But hey, you never know! Write to the author, badger them on social media! Demand more Kleist! I'm right there with you. I want more of those delicious secrets and dark German vibes.
What did *you* think of it? Be honest.
Okay, okay, here's the real truth. I loved it! I was genuinely surprised. I was expecting just another thriller, but this one really got under my skin. I think I’m someone who loves complex mysteries and this was a perfect blend of dark and engaging. I'm still thinking about it, you know? The characters, the atmosphere... it just stays with you.
There were times I was so furious at certain characters that I was actually shouting at the book (don't judge me!). And there were moments I wanted to crawl into a warm bed with a cup of tea. It had me completely engrossed! But it's not perfect. It takes a while to pick up, and the beginning is a little slow, but it’s absolutely worth sticking with. It’sComfy Hotel Finder
