TRAVEL TIPPS
From mallorca to vienna
For two years Martin Hötzl looked after guests at the Sansibar and coast by east in Mallorca . For the past few months he has been ensuring that things run smoothly at the Sofitel Vienna Stephansdom , in his role as Food & Beverage Manager . In conversation with DELUXE he gives his recommendations on what to see , both here and there .
Herr Hötzl , you lived in the Balearics for two years , where you were responsible for two restaurants in Port Adriano . What in your opinion ought visitors to Mallorca to see and do ? Mallorca is an island of such diversity , one should really try and experience it from all angles . From Valldemossa , a beautiful walk with amazing views takes you into the Tramuntana Mountains , following in the footsteps of Archduke Ludwig Salvatore , who was Austrian of course . Carlo des Marmots , in the south of the Island , is one of the most beautiful beaches . Another of my favourite things to do is to enjoy a fresh ‘ caña ’ in Portixol . Of the many wonderful restaurants on the Island , I have always enjoyed Adrian Quetglas , and of course ‘ coast by east ’.
Since 2016 you have been working in Vienna at the Sofitel . Its rooftop restaurant is one of the main attractions , offering dinner with a stunning view . I totally agree with you . The LOFT restaurant serves young , innovative cuisine inspired by the many varied flavours of the world , but without turning its back on its local and regional roots . From mid-February , Anton Gschwendtner will be in charge of the LOFT ’ s kitchen and I am sure he will introduce great new ideas . The culinary creations are complemented by sommelier Steve Breitzke and his exceptional choice of Austrian and international wines – a combination guaranteed to get you hooked !
What else should one do in Vienna in the spring ? Vienna is a most impressive city with lots of history and beautiful architecture . You can find interesting things nearly everywhere . Despite its size , nowhere is very far away in Vienna and green spaces are quickly accessible . I really like to visit a vineyard tavern , the one at Cobenzl for instance , with its amazing views over the city . And of course you simply have to visit the opera and drink a special Viennese coffee in one of the city ’ s coffee houses . There are also lovely small theatres like the ‘ Theater in der Josefstadt ’. Vienna ’ s number one tourist attraction is Schloss Schönbrunn . Walking through the palace grounds in spring is a particular pleasure . To end the day I would recommend our bar and lounge at the LOFT . Our bartenders will be happy to mix you a personalised cocktail or long drink . Should you already have a favourite one , of course we also serve all the usual drinks with the excellent quality you would expect from us . The so-called ‘ blue hour ’ just before sunset is particularly special . Herr Hötzl , thank you for talking to us . as seen at accorhotels . com
54 DELUXE