Would you say it is better to stay in Fussen or closer to the castles in one of the smaller towns? Sorry, I'm sure this topic has been beaten to death. I'm looking at staying in Hotel Alpenstuben (closest to the castles), Hotel Zum Hecten (Fussen), or Hotel Helmerhof (inbetween), if anyone has stayed in any of those. We will have a rental car. (Also, this is daughter and mother, just more as an fyi, haha).
I used to like the Hotel Zum Hecten and now I don't - but I can't remember why. That's what happens as you get older....
My wife has ridden to the rescue - the reason when after stayed there recently was three fold - the rooms had been redecorated into a sort of chain hotel blah after being previously rustic and charming; the vegetarian restaurant just outside which used to be mentioned in the RS book had gone; and the hotel restaurant upstairs had either gone or changed beyond recognition.
These issues for us may not be issues for you. One other feature that we used to like was leaving the windows open to hear the church bells just next door - we like them. You may or may not. After the redo we were either unable to open the window or something so we still heard the bells but not as loud.
Personally I would prefer to stay away from the touristic bustle close to the castles. There are relaxing options close by though like a walk around the Schwansee that I would recommend regardless. Füssen is a nice small town and there are advantages of staying in the town with access to restaurants, cafes, walks etc. Parking in the town might be a problem. I have stayed at the Hotel Helmerhof in Schwangau-Horn several times and it is OK. I first saw it on German TV a few years ago because of the food there. From some rooms with balconies in the front of the hotel you can see Neuschwanstein in the distance.
Fussen would be my choice, because as previously mentioned, you have access to more restaurants etc. We too had a rental car, and stayed at Hotel Sonne which also included parking. Nice large room, great breakfast and helpful staff!
I found Fuessen surprisingly interesting in it's own right, and with a car it's very easy to get to the castles. It's also pretty easy without a car.
We stayed at the Hotel Fantasia which was budget but a little outlandishly (yet charmingly so) decorated and well-located. Not a traditionally alpine feel, but with nice views from our room, comfortable, and clean. I'd stay there again in a heartbeat.
The hotels closest to the castle are attempting to capitalize on their location and appeal to newbie tourists. If that's what you're looking for the go for it and book at the Alpenstuben - rooms are ok, people are nice, food is mediocre at best. I would pay more to be AWAY from all the tourists.
We've also stayed at the Helmerhof which we absolutely L-O-V-E-D! Wonderful people, wonderful property and an affordable restaurant to die for. There's no question in my mind which hotel I'd choose.
I agree with Sarah. Fussen is one of my favorite places I've been. I really enjoyed the local museum. It's a great place to just walk around.
we just made reservations for the Hotel Hirsch, received word that it was very nice, but can not personally attest to that.