Experience the enchantment of the holiday season with Victoria during a festive retreat through Germany’s most beloved Christmas markets and historic towns. From the elegance of Schlosshotel Kronberg to the twinkling market squares of Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Wiesbaden, and Cologne, this unforgettable week blends old-world charm with cherished seasonal traditions.
Enjoy English afternoon tea in the former private salon of Empress Victoria, explore storybook villages adorned for Yuletide, and savor seasonal culinary experiences throughout our stay. Special highlights include a private tour of Heidelberg Castle, a guided visit to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, and a cozy fondue farewell dinner at the Wintercottage at Schlosshotel Kronberg.
A creative gathering led by Victoria Editor Melissa Lester and Creative Director Melissa Sturdivant Smith invites guests to embrace the beauty and inspiration of the season while connecting with fellow travelers in a warm and intimate setting.
Accommodations throughout the retreat are provided at Schlosshotel Kronberg, a grand historic castle hotel renowned for its elegance, royal heritage, and gracious hospitality.
The retreat is limited to 18 participants.
Each registered workshop participant will receive a one-year subscription to Victoria. Current subscribers may choose to extend their subscription or gift it to someone special.
Arrive at the enchanting Schlosshotel Kronberg, a historic castle hotel nestled in the Taunus countryside just outside Frankfurt. Settle into your elegant accommodations and take time to unwind before joining fellow guests for a warm welcome dinner at the hotel.
Following breakfast at the hotel, depart for Frankfurt to experience the magic of its beloved Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, festive stalls, and seasonal treats create a storybook holiday atmosphere. Return to Schlosshotel Kronberg for a traditional English afternoon tea served in the former private salon of Empress Victoria. Later, enjoy a guided tour of the hotel, originally built as Friedrichhof Palace, the country residence of Victoria Empress Friedrich, Queen of Prussia and daughter of Britain’s Queen Victoria. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Following breakfast at the hotel, journey to Heidelberg, home to one of Germany’s most picturesque Christmas markets. Wander among festive wooden chalets set against the backdrop of the city’s historic Old Town, with time to visit nearby shops, including the beloved Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store. Our day continues with a private guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, where centuries of history and sweeping views over the Neckar River create an unforgettable experience.
Following a leisurely breakfast, gather for a special group lunch at Schlosshotel Kronberg.
In the afternoon, enjoy a creative workshop led by Victoria Editor Melissa Lester and Creative Director Melissa Sturdivant Smith. Designed to inspire holiday creativity and seasonal cheer, this special gathering will invite guests to embrace the spirit of Christmas through thoughtful conversation and a hands-on activity.
Following breakfast at the hotel, depart for the charming village of Idstein, celebrated for its beautifully preserved half-timbered houses and storybook atmosphere. Spend the morning exploring the old town and enjoying leisurely holiday shopping. Later, we travel to Wiesbaden for a group lunch at Maldaner 1859, Germany’s oldest original Viennese coffeehouse and affectionately known as “the living room of Wiesbaden.” After lunch, enjoy time at the Wiesbaden Christmas Market, where festive traditions, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal delicacies await. Dinner this evening is on your own.
Following breakfast at the hotel, depart for Cologne for a day immersed in the city’s rich history and renowned holiday traditions. Enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, delight in exploring Cologne’s celebrated Christmas markets, known for their festive atmosphere, artisan gifts, and seasonal specialties. We conclude our retreat with a memorable closing dinner featuring a cozy fondue evening at the Wintercottage at Schlosshotel Kronberg.
Depart for home with cherished memories of Germany’s festive markets, historic towns, and the warmth of the holiday season.
6 nights at Schlosshotel Kronberg, a five-star historic castle hotel in Germany
Welcome dinner with fellow guests
Visit to the Christmas markets in Frankfurt, Heidelberg, Weisbaden, and Cologne
English afternoon tea in the former private salon of Empress Victoria
Guided tour of Schlosshotel Kronberg, formerly Friedrichhof Palace
Private guided tour of Heidelberg Castle
Creative workshop led by Victoria Editor Melissa Lester and Creative Director Melissa Sturdivant Smith
Group lunch at Maldaner 1859 in Wiesbaden
Closing fondue dinner at the Wintercottage at Schlosshotel Kronberg
Select group meals, including daily breakfast and special dining experiences
Transportation by private coach for all scheduled retreat activities
Private round-trip airport transfers
One-year subscription to Victoria
Airfare to and from Frankfurt, Germany
Some meals
6 nights at Schlosshotel Kronberg, a five-star historic castle hotel in Germany
Private guided tour of Heidelberg Castle
Select group meals, including daily breakfast and welcome and farewell dinner
Private round-trip airport transfers
Airfare to and from Frankfurt, Germany
Some meals
Workshops and excursions
One-year subscription to Victoria
Schlosshotel Kronberg
Schlosshotel Kronberg is a grand five-star castle hotel located just outside Frankfurt in the picturesque Taunus region of Germany. Originally built in 1893 as Friedrichhof Palace for Victoria Empress Friedrich—daughter of Britain’s Queen Victoria—the property is renowned for its royal heritage, elegant interiors, and gracious hospitality. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and rolling countryside, the hotel offers luxurious guest rooms, refined dining experiences, and beautifully preserved historic spaces filled with antiques and artwork once belonging to European royalty. With its festive holiday décor and timeless charm, Schlosshotel Kronberg provides an enchanting setting for our Christmas retreat in Germany.
You’ll fly into Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is serviced from most hubs in the United States. Transportation for all scheduled retreat activities is included.
The Victoria team is available to assist with travel planning and helping you find the best route. Email victoriaevents@hoffmanmedia.com for assistance.
Participant Single Occupancy
$10,750 per Participant
1 Participant | 1 Private Hotel Room
Shared Participant Double Occupancy
$9,750 per Participant
2 Participants | 1 Hotel Room
Participant & Travel Companion
$12,750 per Participant & Travel Companion
1 Participant + Travel Companion | 1 Shared Hotel Room
A 50% deposit is due within 48 hours of confirmation, along with signed travel waiver and cancellation policy acknowledgment
The remaining 50% balance is due September 1, 2026
Payments accepted: ACH direct deposit, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB, Diners Club, and Union Pay
All prices are listed in U.S. dollars
A 3% discount is included for payments made via secure bank transfer (ACH).
A 1% discount applies when paying the full retreat cost at booking.
All bookings for this retreat are final and nonrefundable under all circumstances. For this reason, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, interruption, illness, and other unexpected events. You agree that you will not initiate a charge-back or payment dispute for amounts properly charged in accordance with this policy.
If you choose not to purchase travel insurance, you understand and agree that you are responsible for all costs or losses related to trip interruptions.
Changes, Cancellations & Unforeseen Events
We are not responsible for expenses related to travel delays, cancellations, illness, injury, or other events beyond our control, including but not limited to weather, government actions, and airline or transportation issues.
In the event that we must cancel this retreat due to circumstances beyond our control, our liability will be limited to a refund of amounts paid to us, or a credit toward a future retreat, at our discretion. We are not responsible for additional expenses such as airfare, lodging, or other travel costs.
Health & Travel Risks
Travel involves inherent risks, including the risk of exposure to communicable illnesses. By booking this retreat, you acknowledge these risks and agree to assume responsibility for your own health and safety during the trip.
If you become ill during the retreat, particularly with a suspected or confirmed contagious condition, the group leaders may require you to modify or end your participation if they reasonably believe your presence poses a health or safety risk to other participants. In such cases, no refund or credit will be provided.
Program Changes
Due to circumstances beyond our control, certain activities, instructors, services, or amenities may be modified, substituted, or unavailable. Such changes do not constitute grounds for a refund, but we will work tirelessly to make sure you have the best experience possible.
Acknowledgment
By booking this retreat, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to this Trip Cancellation & Travel Risk Policy.
What airport should I fly into?
We recommend flying into Frankfurt Airport (FRA). Guests are responsible for arranging their own airfare.
Are airport transfers included?
Airport transfers are included.
Can I arrive early or extend my stay?
If you would like to inquire about additional nights, please email victoriaevents@hoffmanmedia.com. Requests for early check-in or late check-out will be made on your behalf but cannot be guaranteed.
Is breakfast included?
Daily breakfast is included.
Will double-occupancy rooms have two separate beds?Due to the hotel’s unique European charm and design, some double-occupancy rooms feature one shared bed rather than two separate beds. However, two sets of linens for the bed can be provided upon request for added comfort.
Are children able to attend this retreat? All participants must be 18 years old or older to attend this retreat.
Will there be free time during the retreat?
The itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to allow for leisure time. Guests are encouraged to explore, relax, shop, or enjoy optional experiences such as spa services.
What should I pack for the retreat?
We recommend smart casual attire with comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing and excursions. For guided tours and outdoor activities, wear clothing suitable for changing weather.
Is this retreat suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Some activities include walking on uneven surfaces, historic sites, and outdoor paths. While we do our best to accommodate all guests, participants should be comfortable with moderate walking. Please contact victoriaevents@hoffmanmedia.com with specific questions or needs.
Are meals included?
Some meals are included. Most lunches and some dinners are on your own, allowing flexibility to explore local dining.
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is not required but is strongly recommended. The retreat is nonrefundable, and travel insurance may help protect against unforeseen changes or interruptions.
Is this retreat limited in size?
This retreat is limited to 18 participants to ensure an intimate and enriching experience.
Will I receive a subscription to Victoria?
Each registered participant will receive a one-year subscription to Victoria. Current subscribers may choose to extend their subscription or gift it to someone special.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Please email victoriaevents@hoffmanmedia.com with any questions about the retreat.