The

The
visionary Locke hospitality group has been shaking up the
hotel scene since its first London property, Leman Locke, flung open its doors in Aldgate in 2016.
Less than a decade later, the company has seen a successful rollout
of 11 new outposts across Europe, with further destinations in the
pipeline – here’s hoping, Paris, Lisbon and Berlin. The magic of these boundary-breaking
stays is that not one single address looks the same; instead, each
is individually designed to embody the essence of the surrounding
neighbourhood.

WunderLocke – Locke’s biggest launch to date – is located in the
leafy suburb of Sendling. Spread across seven floors, 360
apartments, chic co-working spaces, an in-house Michelin-starred
restaurant and an abundance of fitness facilities are all at
guests’ disposal. Interiors, which come courtesy of London-based
design consultancy Holloway Li, feature renewable materials that create a
sense of connection with nature. Despite its size, the core concept
of WunderLocke is the same as that of its siblings: a stylish
set-up that offers travellers a hub in which to work, play and
relax.

A cosy corner, left, and the outdoor swimming pool.

Locke’s success, according to the group’s achingly cool creative
director, Eric Jafari, is down to the collaborative efforts of a
raft of pioneering creatives, from architects and designers to
chefs and DJs. Across the board, there is a deep respect for local
culture and community, seen in everything from small touches such
as killer soundtracks through to stylish pop-up events.

On arrival, we’re greeted by a gentleman dressed in lederhosen.
Our first thought is that this must be standard attire for the
Bavarian capital; our second, what an interesting, alternative
choice of uniform. But then we are reminded that the annual
Oktoberfest celebrations have just commenced – a period during
which it is appropriate for Germans to sport the national dress.
After a grand and glorious tour, we enter our bedroom to find our
very own dirndl waiting. Beer steins and schnitzel, here we
come.

The stylish co-working space, left, and an airy penthouse
suite.

Rooms

There are 10 different room types to choose from, spanning
micro-studios to a super-slinky penthouse. We stayed in a rooftop
suite, where concrete ceilings, forest-green walls and wooden
furnishings make for a contemporary abode. The open-plan living
arrangement sees a trundle king-sized bed framed by a snug sofa
corner sofa, while details such as a silk sleep mask, ribbed bed
socks and cosy throws provide a soothing level of comfort for
travellers. In true Locke style, the kitchen comes complete with
all the essentials. Spacious matte-black-tiled bathrooms are
stocked with toiletries labelled with a sensual message – we’ll
leave you to explore that one. Our favourite part was the enormous
balcony, which showcased undisturbed views across the city and
distant shadows of the dramatic Alps.

What’s for breakfast?

Truth be told, the breakfast options are limited. You’ll find a
selection of slow-baked breads, pastries and fresh-pressed juices,
but we’d suggest venturing into town for something a little more
gourmet.

How about lunch and dinner?

All the action takes place in the 70-cover Mural Farmhouse,
where scribbled across walls are the words “Eat Local. Drink
Natural”. Natural woods, terrazzo tiling and raffia are woven
throughout the space, alongside enormous potted plants, velvet
banquettes and wishbone chairs. Headed up by chef Rico Birndt, a
carefully curated farm-to-fork menu is packed with delicious
regional fare – we feast on beef tartare with buttered potatoes and
finish with an artisanal hazelnut ice cream.

Farm-to-fork plates, left, and a snapshot of Mural
Farmhouse.

Is there a bar?

Yes, the rooftop bar is one of the sexiest set-ups we’ve ever
had the pleasure of sipping a cocktail on – and that, might we add,
is really saying something. It’s dimly lit and decadently
decorated, with enormous speakers and red leather booths drawing a
crowd of city dwellers come sunset.

Prefer a more relaxed atmosphere? The ground-floor Mural Café is
for you. Snag a chair at the curvaceous wood-panelled bar and steal
the best local recommendations from one of the bartenders.

Amenities

With an ever-evolving events calendar, it would be borderline
impossible for us to give you the inside scoop on everything that’s
on offer. During our visit, a pop-up barber saw guests enjoying a
complimentary trim, while morning yoga sessions are also an option.
A well-equipped gym, outdoor pool and spacious sauna are open
year-round to keep you entertained.

How about their eco-credentials?

Green and squeaky clean. Built from the ground up using raw and
recycled materials, the property stands out for its use of
eco-friendly products, climate-conscious menus and a housekeeping
service that only does laundry on request.

What about accessibility?

All areas of the hotel are easily accessible. There are a
handful of converted rooms for those with mobility issues.

What’s the crowd like?

If we had to dream up the ultimate hangout for nomadic
urbanites, it would be WunderLocke. We spot plenty of hipsters
using the self-check-in kiosk who wouldn’t look out of place on the
cover of i-D. Kids are welcome, but we don’t cross paths with any
pushchairs during our stay.

Things I should know

There are no landlines in the bedrooms. Instead, the team is
contactable through WhatsApp 24/7.

Within a short walk I can find…

Everything. You’re in the Bavarian capital, after all. Peruse
our city guide for the coolest bars and boutiques
in town. Park
Cafè makes for a great brunch spot, Die Goldene Bar is famed
locally for its bellini coladas and Literatur Moths should be on every bookworm’s
radar.

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