5 Minutes with Joachim Hartl
Presently Hilton Hotels & Resorts Area General Manager for the Iberian Peninsula, Joachim Hartl is a name synonymous with excellence in the hospitality industry.
Particularly known for his role in the opening of the Conrad Algarve. In 2012, Hartl arrived in the picturesque Algarve region to assume his first position as General Manager, after 4 years at the helm of Hilton Hotels & Resorts F&B operations in Europe, and to spearhead the launch of this luxury resort.
His leadership not only marked the debut of the first Conrad brand resort in Europe but also set a new standard for luxury accommodations in the area.
Against all odds, under Hartl’s guidance, the Conrad Algarve became a beacon of opulence and a testament to his commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences.
The success of the Conrad Algarve under Hartl’s management was a reflection of his dedication to the hospitality industry and his ability to inspire a team to achieve greatness. Joachim Hartl’s journey in the Algarve is a story of visionary leadership and the transformative power of passion and innovation in the world of luxury hospitality.
Joachim, what’s your favourite Hilton Hotels & Resorts spot in Iberia?
At the moment, I really like our Roof Top Bar & Pool called Mistico at the newly opened @Doubletree by Hilton Lagoa on the island of San Miguel on the Azores. I love its infinity pool, the design of the bar with its own terrace and to enjoy a nice glass of wine during the sunset on this beautiful island which I call the New Zealand of Europe.
Your Favourite Room or Suite?
Has to be the Infinity Suite at the Conrad Algarve, 300 sqms 2 x bedroom suite with its own pool, retractable roof as well as an additional 180 sqm terrace with Jacuzzi and plenty of space to entertain.
Favourite restaurant? On property and external.
My favourite restaurant is at the Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona called Aürt restaurant by One Star Guide Michelin Chef Artur Martinez. I love his tapas style dishes with little ingredients but maximum flavour, all based around local sourcing, 0 waste and chefs passionate about produce.
Outside restaurant: A small fish restaurant by @Rafa Zafra called Estimar in Barcelona – just fabulous what he does with fish and seafood. Also the best cheesecake in Barcelona, but do not tell to Artur Martinez, as otherwise I will be dead.
Are you a cocktail or a wine soul? Favourite one? What a question…
Wine Soul – I have many favourites depending on where I am and what I eat – but just to give you an example I love fresh, crisp white wines to drink as well as Douro or Ribera del Duero Reds like Vega Sicilia – overall more of an old world wine drinker.
Favourite holiday destinations
Portugal, Austria, Greece, Italy.
What can’t you travel without?
Food & Wine, wherever I go, I am looking for it.
Favourite song/music?
I listen to lots of different music i.e. Classic Die Moldau, Pop like at the moment, I really like Overdrive by Ofenbach…. my favourite artist is Falco – best song Auf der Flucht.
If one of your properties were a song, what would it be?
This girl is on Fire – Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona.
Thank you Joachim, your character has been a great inspiration both as a hotelier and a person that has influenced my professional career in hospitality.
It was great our paths crossed, and I’m looking forward to welcoming you back to the Algarve!