EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW AT THE GRAND HOTEL PUPP
By Katherine Vernot-Jonas
TIMELESS ELEGANCE: Exceptional architecture, fascinating history and a hotel that embodies cultural significance as an integral part of karlovy vary
An exclusive interview with Martin Gross, Guest Experience Specialist, provided fascinating insights into Grandhotel Pupp's rich history and its delicate balance between preserving the past and embracing modern comforts that promote well-being. Having served as a concierge at Grandhotel Pupp for four years, Martin's connection to the hotel goes back to his childhood when he spent time there during the communist era while his mother worked at the hotel.
Knowing my background as a trained architect, Martin started our conversation with a quote from the Swiss architect, Le Corbusier, who called Iiarlovy Vary "The Conference of the Whipped Cream Cake."
This poetic metaphor draws from the town's graceful elevation above the evergreen forest, mirroring the sumptuous aesthetics of a decadent dessert adorned with whipped cream. It encapsulates the natural beauty, architectural charm, and picturesque allure that captivated not only Le Corbusier but the rest of the world since the 18th Century.
KATHERINE: CAN YOU SHARE THE HISTORY AND BACKGROUND OF GRANDHOTEL PUPP? AND HOW IT HAS EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS?
Martin Gross (MG): Grandhotel Pupp traces its origins back to 1701 with the Bohemian and Saxonian Halls and with the famous cafe owned by Johann Georg Pupp. The Pupp family's legacy has left an indelible mark on the hotel, from the creation of the famous Pupp Cake to commissioning renowned Viennese architects Fellner & Helmer to transform various family-owned structures into the majestic neo-Baroque style.
The hot springs played a significant role in the cure and health care of the Europeans after the Industrial Revolution, a time where people traveled more and when Grandhotel Pupp started to work as a Hotel. Karlovy Vary became the Montecarlo of Europe. The hotel's illustrious guests include Beethoven, Bach, Goethe, Sigmund Freud, Richard Wagner, Empress Maria Theresa, Kafka, and Milos Forman, to name a few. Over the centuries, the hotel has transformed into a symbol of timeless elegance and hospitality.
Through the tumultuous era of World War II, The Dynasty Pupp continued to expand its domain by acquiring neighboring properties and seamlessly integrating them into the hotel complex. This ongoing dedication to refinement has resulted in the Grandhotel Pupp becoming an architectural gem attracting celebrities, presidents, and dignitaries from all over the world. This magnetism increased with the establishment of The Film Festival in 1950. Every July Grandhotel Pupp becomes the VIP hotel for excellence. The hotel has hosted famous actors such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Salma Hayek, Michael Douglas, John Malkovich, Queen Latifah, Daniel Craig, and many more. Last Holiday and Casino Royale were filmed at the hotel in 2006.
KATHERINE: TALKING ABOUT THE ACQUIRED PROPERTIES BY THE GRAND HOTEL PUPP, WE ARE STAYING ACROSS FROM THE HOTEL IN THE QUISISANA PALACE. CAN YOU SHARE MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MAGNIFICENT BUILDING?
"Our beautiful suite provided breathtaking views of I-Caiser Bad, the Tep/a River, The Grandhotel Pupp, and the adjacent riverfront shopping area. The generously sized living room, adorned with an 18thcentury fireplace and stunning crown molding in the ceiling, created an enchanting ambiance. " -Katherine
KATHERINE: HOW DOES GRANDHOTEL PUPP MANAGE THE DELICATE BALANCE BETWEEN PRESERVING ITS RICH HISTORY AND EMBRACING MODERNITY?
Martin Gross (MG): The balance between history and modernity is a carefully curated process. Under the management of Jindrich Krause, the hotel underwent luxurious lobby renovations four years ago, returning
the lobby to its original space based on architectural floor plans. The lobby clock, exclusively commissioned for Grandhotel Pupp, signifies a successful partnership with the Czech brand Moser Glass. There is only one clock in the lobby.
"When you are in Karlovy Vary, you only need to know the time here!
You are here to relax." -Martin Gross
These renovations, executed in phases, aim to maintain the sophisticated charm of the past while incorporating modern comforts seamlessly. Notable additions, such as a new white rug with blue motifs and a glass bar in Hall Mala Dovoran, complement the 19th-century monumental chandelier. The hotel's recent branding efforts reflect this balance, blending the timeless elegance of the past with the demands of contemporary luxury.
KATHERINE: CAN YOU SHARE INSIGHTS INTO THE UNIQUE INITIATIVES AND PARTNERSHIPS GRANDHOTEL PUPP HAS UNDERTAKEN TO MAINTAIN CZECH IDENTITY?
Martin Gross (MG): Grandhotel Pupp focuses its efforts on reclaiming its Czech identity through strategic partnerships with renowned brands like Moser Crystal, Robot, Preciosa, Haslersky, Thun porcelain, Mattoni mineral water, and Manufaktura. These collaborations aim to celebrate Czech craftsmanship and traditions, ensuring that the essence of the hotel remains deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. In addition, Grandhotel Pupp gives back to the community by hosting balls for the local schools, dancing classes for debutants, and sometimes allowing Christmas parties for Czech companies in the hotel Grand Ballroom. KATHERINE: HOW HAS THE HOTEL ADAPTED TO ATTRACT CZECH GUESTS WHILE MAINTAINING ITS INTERNATIONAL APPEAL?
Martin Gross (MG): The hotel recognizes the importance of attracting local guests and has implemented initiatives to resonate with the Czech community. Our partnership with Czech brands, events like the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, and the promotion of traditional Czech delights, such as the unique Pupp Cake (which Martin compared to the legendary delightful Austrian Sacher tort) all contribute to creating a sense of familiarity and pride among Czech visitors. It is about striking a balance that caters to both local and international tastes. Also, it is important to mention that the hotel is the number one employer in Karlovy Vary. The Grand Ball Room with an organ is internationally well-known and one of the most beautiful ballrooms in European attracts many international guests for weddings, conferences and special events.
The thermal springs in Karlovy Vary are also part of the attraction at local and international levels for guests seeking wellbeing. The hotel caters to every need, every dietary request, and makes sure that everybody, regardless of religion or race, is welcome and treated with respect.
KATHERINE: COULD YOU SHED LIGHT ON THE UPCOMING MICHELIN RESTAURANT, LA DEGUSTATION, AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR GRANDHOTEL PUPP?
Martin Gross (MG): Grandhotel Pupp, being a recognized monument and historic site adheres to various design restrictions. While the existing restaurant cannot increase its number of tables, the solution is the upcoming La Degustation, set to open in late February or early March 2024. This new addition will further elevate the culinary experience at Grandhotel Pupp, offering guests a refined and Michelin-worthy dining option.
KATHERINE: IN YOUR OPINION, HOW DOES THE GRANDHOTEL PUPP CONTRIBUTE TO THE OVERALL CHARM OF KARLOVY VARY?
Martin Gross (MG): Grandhotel Pupp is not just a hotel; it is a cultural institution, an integral part of Karlovy Vary's charm and allure. Its rich history, iconic architecture, and the stories of illustrious guests all contribute to the town's unique character. As the VIP center for the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, the hotel plays a leading role in the cultural and social aspects of the city.
"As my interview with Martin Gross unfolded, Grandhotel Pupp 's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the natural beauty of the town and the present time became clear. It is a delicate dance that ensures a timeless and enchanting experience for every guest. This fusion of history and modernity truly sets Grandhotel Pupp apart as a beacon of elegance in the heart of J{arlovy Vary. To learn more about the fascinating history of the era, Martin recommended reading: Sudetenland."