Imperial Riding School

The place

A 19th-century military riding school in Landstrasse, Vienna's third district. The pink facade still stands; inside, the original columns and vaulted ceilings remain. The equestrian past runs through the 342 rooms — contemporary furniture, dark wood panels, leather accents.

Below, a serene indoor pool. Also a 24-hour gym, a steam room, two saunas, and a yoga room. Elstar Restaurant moves from its indoor tables out into the garden, serving a classic Austrian menu turned slightly East. The Farrier pours the drinks.