Hotel Daniel Graz: Loftcube

Graz, as Austria’s second-largest city, is too often overshadowed by the capital Vienna. So, it was time to take a look at a very special hotel in the Styrian state capital. The Hotel Daniel in Graz boasts the only – or rather, most unique – LoftCube Suite far and wide. The perfect starting point for a top-class Luxvisor review.

Incidentally, Hotel Daniel belongs to the Weitzer Hotel Group, which also includes the renowned hotels; Das Weitzer in Graz, the Grand Hotel Wiesler in Graz, and the Hotel Grand Ferdinand in Vienna. The latter has already been subjected to a Luxvisor review.

Straight-line distances. Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors.

The Location

The address alone promises a statesman-like location. The Hotel Daniel is located at Europaallee 1 in Graz, right next to the main train station. Admittedly, I had some concerns, but they were unfounded. The Graz main train station is modern and tidy. There were absolutely no disturbances due to a possible – but not given – noise level. Hat off! The location can be described as urban and is excellent for all kinds of activities in the city. I am thrilled.

The Check-In Service

Check-in was about an hour before the official check-in time. Upon request from the extremely friendly receptionist, she informed me that the CubeLoft was already available and asked where I had parked. Of course, I had apparently parked my car in a service parking lot of the Austrian railways (ÖBB). She gave me the tip to park in the hotel’s own secured parking lot if I wanted to. Done deal, and when I returned a few minutes later, the key was already handed over to me. I declined an escort to the top and first listened to the directions to the LoftCube, which were adventurous. In the elevator, I went to the top floor, from there over the emergency exit to another (locked) door. The key fit, and I climbed the stairs to the roof. And hey, there it was, the LoftCube. Some would say a living container, others would call it LoftCube with love. A stylish penthouse above the rooftops of Graz. Who needs New York?

The LoftCube

The LoftCube is located on the roof of the Hotel Daniel in Graz. The first impression and the panoramic view are simply breathtaking. Not only does it offer a magnificent view of the city, but also of the famous Schlossberg and the Grazer Uhrturm.

The LoftCube itself is functional and modern. Large, floor-to-ceiling panoramic glass fronts offer a 360-degree view. The oversized double bed (220×220 cm) is perfectly positioned towards the Schlossberg. Falling asleep and waking up with a view of the Grazer Hausberg is priceless. The shower is the next highlight. Many hotels offer a rainforest shower, but here you really feel like you’re in the jungle. Surrounded by green plants, pebble flooring, and a perfect view. The stylish seating and swivel TV are perfectly placed as well. You really don’t want to come back down to the urbanity of the city. It’s a great place to stay up here.

By the way, the LoftCube was developed by Berlin designer Werner Aisslinger and covers approximately 44m2. The windows are triple glazed, and the LoftCube itself has a steel structure that is earthquake and storm-proof. The storm safety was particularly necessary since there were winds of up to 70 km/h at night. I enjoyed every second of it.

The Hotel Daniel also has “normal” rooms, which are categorized as “Smart” and “Loggia” based on their size and furnishings. The hotel has a total of 108 rooms and was reopened in 2005. The hotel itself follows the “Smart Luxury” concept, which means, among other things, having meaningful reductions and unconventional details in appearance and offerings for modern travelers. In other words, to surprise them again and again. That is definitely achieved!

In summer, the spacious terrace of the LoftCube invites you to linger. A hammock and seating area are, of course, part of it. Breakfast can also be taken on the terrace at any time.

It is also worth mentioning the rental service for Vespas and bicycles. These can be rented in the hotel lobby and are also prominently displayed opposite the reception desk. The hotel is lovingly decorated with details, too. There are motivational sayings or stylishly placed plants at every corner. An unique atmosphere fills this environment.

The Restaurant

The Hotel Daniel also has a small hotel bar and, of course, a restaurant for breakfast. Breakfast is particularly recommended here, for example, because of the late sleeper times. Breakfast is served on weekends from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and on weekdays from 6

The selection at the breakfast buffet is comprehensive and lacked nothing. That is remarkable. From salmon to cheese, meat, cereal, juices, and coffee. Egg dishes and fresh fruit were also part of the selection. Breakfast is undoubtedly always a barometer of a hotel, but the Hotel Daniel convinces and surprises with truly above-average quality and selection in this regard. The loving presentation and replenishment of the buffet also work perfectly. The hotel staff is friendly, unobtrusive, competent, and remarkable.

For some time now, the hotel has also offered a “Snack” menu. Here, various small snacks such as wraps, salmon, bread, or sandwiches and various desserts such as yogurt and brownies can be ordered all day. It is worth mentioning that a vegan snack (hummus, cucumber, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkin seed oil, and pumpkin seeds) is also available.

About the author

Roger Hohl

Roger Hohl has been at the helm of Luxvisor since 2006. From his base in Switzerland he travels to test what the luxury travel industry promises, from the seat at 40,000 feet to the last course of a tasting menu, and writes about it with an independent eye.