Schloss Elmau has hosted the G7 Summit for world leaders not once, but twice – in 2015 and 2022. We caught up with Lukas Leitz, managing director at the luxury property in the Bavarian Alps to find out what makes the property ideal for leadership events…
Can you share any behind-the-scenes insights or reflections from such a high-profile event as the G7 summit?
Hosting the G7 Summit was one of the most exhilarating and rewarding experiences in our hotel’s history. The scale and complexity of the event stretched us in new ways—and we grew stronger together because of it. What was particularly moving was how our entire team, across every department, rose to the occasion with energy, unity, and grace. It was intense, of course, but also deeply inspiring.
The fact that the G7 returned to Schloss Elmau speaks volumes. It confirmed something we’ve long believed: that Schloss Elmau offers an extraordinarily rare combination—maximum privacy, absolute security, and a breathtakingly beautiful setting that uplifts and inspires. There are few places in the world where global leaders can meet with such clarity, calm, and creative potential.
What qualities make Schloss Elmau the ideal destination for leadership retreats and summits?
Schloss Elmau offers a kind of sanctuary—one that enables leaders to think deeply, speak openly, and reconnect with purpose. Our location in the Bavarian Alps creates an automatic sense of seclusion and safety, while still offering all the infrastructure and sophistication of a modern world-class resort. Beyond logistics, what makes Schloss Elmau truly special is the atmosphere, the air, the light, the silence between the mountains—it creates space.
Space for thought, for new ideas, for real conversations. And when paired with our rich cultural offerings, exquisite cuisine, and hospitality experiences, we’re not just hosting meetings—we’re shaping moments of transformation.
How does the hotel’s philosophy and setting inspire strategic thinking and leadership development?
Everything about Schloss Elmau is designed to offer clarity. Our philosophy is simple: we live by a very simple principle: Be yourself and be kind. We draw inspiration from many traditions, one of which is the spirit of Ganesha—the ability to judge wisely and fairly.
We treat every person with the same respect we would hope to receive ourselves, no matter who they are or where they come from. This mindset shapes how we welcome our guests, how we care for our team, and how we create an environment where strategic thought and genuine human connection can flourish.
When leaders are able to step out of the noise and into a space that nurtures their whole being they begin to think differently. They listen more. They connect more deeply. The natural setting plays an essential role. Whether it’s a solitary morning walk through the forest, a quiet moment gazing at the mountains, or simply the absence of urban distraction, the environment invites reflection. And from that reflection often emerges something powerful.
What facilities or services do you offer specifically for executive-level meetings and summits?
We offer a wide range of flexible, elegant meeting spaces equipped with state-of-the-art technology and full customisation options. One of the standout additions is the Summit Pavilion, built in 2022 for the second G7 Summit.
With its floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and dramatic mountain views, it became a symbol of calm focus and inspiring dialogue, not only for work leaders, I myself prefer to do my team meetings in there. For private conversations, we offer discreet dining spaces, breakout rooms, and quiet lounges. Every detail—from lighting and layout to food and flow—is carefully curated to support high-level gatherings.
How does Schloss Elmau ensure privacy, security, and discretion for high-level gatherings?
Discretion isn’t just something we provide—it’s part of our culture. Our location alone offers a natural sense of security, but we also work seamlessly with government and private security teams to ensure every possible layer of protection.
More importantly, our team is deeply experienced in serving guests who require the highest levels of confidentiality. We operate quietly, attentively, and with a deep respect for the trust our guests place in us. The result is an atmosphere that feels peaceful, professional, and perfectly protected.
How do Schloss Elmau’s cultural offerings—concerts, talks, spa, etc—enhance the overall experience for business leaders?
From intimate classical concerts to thought-provoking literary dialogues, our cultural program is not an addition—it’s the centre of the Schloss Elmau experience. I believe, quite simply, that without culture, we are less human. Without music, we lose part of our soul. As the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once wrote: “Without music, life would be a mistake.”
Even guests who don’t usually seek out culture find themselves unexpectedly moved, inspired. Over the years, we’ve had the honour of welcoming extraordinary artists and thinkers—from the genre-defying pop star Jacob Collier, to Nobel Laureate in Economics Joseph Stiglitz, to the brilliant violinist Daniel Hope, and the legendary pianist Grigory Sokolov.
When combined with the profound stillness of our six spas and holistic wellness offerings, the result is more than relaxation—it’s renewal. For business leaders, this unique fusion of intellectual depth, artistic inspiration, and physical rejuvenation often becomes the spark that re-ignites creativity, clarity, and forward-thinking leadership.
In what ways does the Alpine setting contribute to the effectiveness of leadership retreats?
I will never forget witnessing a moment that could only happen at Schloss Elmau: several world leaders, in the middle of their one-on-one meetings, standing barefoot in the Ferchenbach mountain stream—fully present, relaxed, and engaged in conversation that was both meaningful and naturally inspired. It was a rare moment of shared humanity, the kind that simply doesn’t exist in traditional summit venues.
The setting is everything. The Alps provide more than a scenic backdrop—they offer energy, stillness, and perspective. Being immersed in nature creates a natural helps leaders shed stress and return to what matters most.
Outdoor activities—whether hiking, skiing, or simply walking in silence—create informal opportunities for bonding, reflection, and breakthrough thinking.
The environment itself fosters resilience, clarity, and cohesion. It encourages both inner balance and bold decision-making.
How do you tailor experiences for corporate clients or leadership teams?
We listen closely. Every group is different—different goals, different rhythms, different personalities. Our role is to understand those nuances and create an experience that feels completely natural and perfectly designed.
Whether it’s curating a three-day strategy retreat with morning yoga, private chamber music in the evening, and roundtable sessions in between—or hosting a one-day summit with discreet dining,, our team is dedicated to making the exceptional feel effortless. Excellence with ease: that’s what Schloss Elmau is all about.