The foundation for the cooperation of Romantik Hotels & Restaurants was laid by Jens Diekmann, a hospitality consultant, along with Alfred Mäder at the end of 1971. In its first year, 15 hotels joined the "Romantics," including renowned establishments such as "Katzenbergers Adler" in Rastatt, led by Rudolf Katzenberger, the father figure of many German chefs. Among the pioneers of the early days are notable family businesses that remain committed to the "romantic idea" to this day. Some examples include Herrmann’s Posthotel & Restaurant in Wirsberg, Hof zur Linde in Münster, Gasthaus Rottner in Nürnberg, Stern in Bad Hersfeld, and Hotel Greifen-Post in Feuchtwangen. The success of the romantic idea is evident from the following years and decades. We have documented this history with the covers of our hotel guides, published annually since 1979. Enjoy discovering them!