In conversation with Nicole Zandt, General Manager, The Amauris Hotel in Vienna (Exclusive Interview)

Officially opened earlier this year within a superb heritage building and in a prestigious location on the famous Kärntner Ring, The Amauris has already established itself as one of the finest luxury hotels in Vienna. In direct competition with the Sacher, Park Hyatt Vienna and The Imperial, The Amauris boasts 62 oversized elegant rooms and suites, a fine dining restaurant, a Spa and an indoor swimming pool. The Amauris Group has plans to open two new luxury hotels in 2024. 

Tell us more about the motivation behind the project and what inspired it?

The motivation behind The Amauris Vienna project was to create a luxurious and unforgettable experience for our guests, one that would stand out in the Vienna market. We were inspired by Vienna’s rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and the city’s reputation as a top destination for luxury travelers. Our goal was to blend contemporary elegance with traditional Viennese charm, providing a unique and sophisticated stay for our esteemed guests.

How is the property positioned in Vienna’s luxury hotel sector?

The property is strategically positioned as a luxury boutique hotel. We have meticulously curated every aspect of the hotel to offer an unparalleled level of service, luxury amenities, and a prime location on the famous Ringstrasse boulevard that allows our guests to easily explore the city’s cultural landmarks and lively surroundings.

Which are the USPs? What about the guest profile?

The Amauris Vienna is a luxury boutique hotel offering 45 elegantly appointed rooms and 17 exclusive suites. We take immense pride in being the only Relais & Chateaux hotel in Vienna. This prestigious distinction sets us apart and reflects our commitment to delivering the utmost luxury and excellence to our guests.

One of our primary USPs lies in our strong culinary focus, where we offer extraordinary gourmet dining experiences at our gourmet restaurant Glasswing. Under the creative direction of our talented Executive Chef, Alexandru Simon, traditional dishes are masterfully refined and elevated into modern culinary wonders.

The location of The Amauris right in the heart of the city and opposite the famous Vienna State opera as well as our Spa area with an indoor pool, sauna, steam bath and treatment room are another two reasons why we are the perfect option when visiting Vienna.

Art plays also a pivotal role in our hotel, and it holds even greater significance as the family who owns the hotel is deeply passionate about collecting art. Throughout our gourmet restaurant Glasswing, Bar & Bistro, and Suites, you can admire paintings from the family’s private art collection.

Hailing from Vienna, the owning family has diligently gathered works by predominantly Austrian artists from the late 19th to early 20th century. This exceptional collection includes renowned names such as Olga Wisinger-Florian, Carl Moll, Emil Jacob Schindler, and Alexander Rothaug, adding a touch of their personal heritage and love for art to every corner of our hotel.

What is your comp set?

Our competitive set includes other top luxury hotels in Vienna and other major European cities, each renowned for their distinctive offerings and world-class amenities. We continuously benchmark ourselves against these competitors to ensure we deliver the best possible experiences to our guests.

How has the hotel performed so far and what are your expectations for the rest of the year?

The hotel has performed well since its opening, with very positive feedback from guests. We are confident that The Amauris Vienna will continue to thrive for the rest of the year, as we are getting more visibility and attracting more guests.

Has Vienna’s luxury sector fully recovered post pandemic? What has been the evolution of rates?

Yes, Vienna’s luxury sector has shown significant signs of recovery post-pandemic. Travel demand has gradually increased, and visitors are once again appreciating Vienna’s charm. As for rates, we have carefully adjusted them to strike a balance between offering competitive pricing and sustaining the luxury experience we promise to our guests.

Many luxury hotels in the most diverse destinations are still facing staffing challenges. What has been your approach?

Addressing staffing challenges has been a significant concern for us before the opening. To overcome this, we’ve adopted new approaches, leveraging social media for greater visibility, and promoting The Amauris Vienna as an employer. Our team members enjoy benefits like annual public transport tickets, professional development opportunities, and a positive work culture. We also partner with prestigious hospitality schools to attract young talent and provide comprehensive training programs, ensuring exceptional service from our staff.

How is your F&B conceived? To what extent you aim to attract locals? – non-hotel residents.

Our F&B concept is designed to showcase a modern way of Austrian cuisine while embracing international influences. We aim to attract not only our hotel residents but also locals and visitors to the city who are seeking an unforgettable dining experience. Our restaurant offers innovative menus with a seasonal approach and is working with local producers to emphasize the connection with the region’s gastronomic offerings.

Is there are recipe for achieving consistency in service?

Achieving consistency in service is of paramount importance to us. We have established a comprehensive training program that emphasizes our core values and service standards. Regular performance evaluations and feedback sessions help us maintain the highest level of service across all departments.

Which are your personal top 5 favourite off-the-beaten-track tips in and around Vienna?

As the General Manager of The Amauris Vienna, my personal top 5 favorite off-the-beaten-track tips in and around Vienna would be:

1. Visit the Belvedere Palace gardens for a peaceful escape and a view of Vienna’s skyline.
2. Head to Grinzingen and the Viennese Vineyard to bask in natural beauty and breathtaking views. Savor a delightful glass of Viennese wine and indulge in local delicacies amidst this picturesque setting.
3. Visit one of the new museums in Vienna, the Albertina Modern, which displays contemporary art from leading artists around the world. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and innovative world of modern art, as the museum showcases a diverse range of captivating and thought-provoking works.
4. Spend a day outside of Vienna and visit the Wachau Valley, a picturesque and enchanting region situated along the Danube River. The Wachau Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, fine wine, and rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from the bustling city.
5. Experience a truly unique and exclusive after-hours tour of the Leopold Museum. With the doors closed to the general public, you’ll have a rare opportunity to explore this world-renowned museum in Vienna’s Museum Quartier without the usual crowds. Immerse yourself in a private and intimate setting surrounded by remarkable art, including works by prominent artists such as Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt.

 

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