The Helmhaus Hotel, located at the old embarkation point at the river Limmat, is one of the oldest guesthouses in town, dating from the 14th century. This was the place where goods and pilgrims once left the boats and entered the town of Zurich. In contrast to the traditional pale grey facade, the entrance to the lobby is surprisingly modern, while the lobby itself is ultra-modern, with a stone tiled floor and shiny black granite reception desk. The 24 air-conditioned guestrooms are finished in white and combine modern splashes of bold colour with traditional furnishings. Both the guestrooms and the en suite tiled bathrooms are in very good condition. The hotel offers a rich Continental buffet every morning in the bright, welcoming breakfast room, which is located on the first floor and is decorated in fresh muted colours.