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