I went to Reiter's at the end of Feb 2010, for a 3 night stay to wind down a bit after an intensive work period. Left the kids at home with my husband, though Reiter's also has an adjoining SPA hotel catering brilliantly for kids.

The hotel wasn't busy at all, and that made it even more relaxing. They have a variety of pools, a large outdoor heated one with jacuzzi beds embedded in on the sides, two smaller ones that have the underground spa water at different temperatures, and the ying-yang pool which you can see on the website. The large outdoor pool is great for enjoying the sunset. They also have a large indoor pool, and a couple of jacuzzis that are much more powerful and fun than what we can generally find in the UK (one is called the pleasure pool and for good reason :-). There are also the expected steam rooms, saunas etc. The guests are very well looked after with water available almost everywhere, and free snacks and fruits in the main spa area. The place is spotless clean, and towels are available to use for the saunas etc. in addition to the bathrobes and slippers for each customer.

The food is excellent, with many health options in addition to richer dishes and sweets. The SPA and beauty treatments are good, with quite a few options.

They have a daily program of morning exercise in water, than a Nordic walk of 90 mins, then some yoga/tai chi/kung-fu class, and additional things like a tour with the chef&cocktaills, complementary 6pm drinks, nice live music etc. There is a resident Shaolin master who gives the tai chi/kungfu courses on most days, and also does a kind of shiatsu massage. Apparently they are brought in from China and each stays for 3 months.

During my stay of about 4 days, I never felt bored or lonely, the staff were very friendly and welcoming, and there was so much to do that I often had to make difficult choices.

Rooms are very comfortable, and quality of accommodation is high without resorting to unnecessary luxury (L'Occitane toiletries plus their very special excellent soaps which can be bought from the hotel shop).

Above all, I can say this is a place managed/owned by people who really care for the comfort and happiness of their customers.

Minor warnings:

1.not everything is translated into English, as the hotel doesn't get much custom from the UK.

2. it is not easy to go the the hotel by train, but they can provide a pick up car for 89 Euros.

3. You need to use the main spa area naked, though you can use towels to cover yourself. This is easy to get used to, but may not be appropriate if you are going with other couples or business friends. There are also pools for people who want to wear swimming costumes, but these are not as good.

The 5* Supreme Hotel is adults only (there is a 4* family hotel right next door which shares some of the sports facilities) and has wonderful sporting and spa facilities. The golf course is scenic, the spa and beauty salon has a comprehensive range of treatments and the restaurant is first class with an excellent range of Austrian and international wines. Of particular uniqueness is the Lippazaner stud farm and riding centre where equestrians can have lessons or go on hacks on beautifully schooled horses - a real treat. There is also a tennis school, fully equipped gym and myriad of other diversions. This really is a relaxing and fun place to spend time made all the better for the charming staff all of whom speak excellent English. It mainly seems to be visited by Austrians and is therefore a well kept secret so don't tell anyone!