Who doesn't love a skiing holiday? But have you been dreaming of a winter break that offers a little more? Below are seven Alpine hotels that combine adrenaline-filled activities like hiking, snowshoeing and ski touring with top-class wellness facilities, luxurious comfort and unique hospitality. Whether you're after action-packed days surrounded by pristine landscapes or days relaxing in the spa to snowy views, these hideaways will make your winter holiday an unforgettable experience. Six of these hotels have been awarded at Michelin Keys – the guarantee of a special, if not exceptional, stay.
Forestis Dolomites
Brixen, Italy
Award: Two Michelin Keys
Style: Modern Design
Atmosphere: Lively
Perfect For: Winter sports enthusiasts; wellness-lovers; those seeking alpine luxury in the midst of nature
The Forestis Dolomites sits nestled in the untouched nature of the South Tyrolean Dolomites, at an altitude of 1,800 metres. With direct access to the Plose, one of the most popular ski areas in the region, it makes the perfect base for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiers and snowboarders glide over perfectly groomed slopes, while snowshoe hikers roam through glistening forests and enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery.
The design of the Forestis is minimalist yet luxurious, characterised by natural materials such as wood, stone and glass, which perfectly reflect the surroundings – a highlight here is that every room and suite offers a panoramic view of the surrounding nature. The regenerative power of nature runs through every detail of this extraordinary hideaway, including in the first-class spa. An infinity pool sits at the foot of the mountain range and four private spas provide a uniquely intimate atmosphere, while spacious saunas crafted from natural wood and stone, and soothing treatments with alpine herbs ensure complete relaxation. To complete the experience, the hotel's restaurant serves up seasonal dishes that capture the flavours of South Tyrol and combine them with a creative Mediterranean twist.
Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti
Pinzolo, Italy
Award: Two Michelin Keys
Style: Modern Design
Atmosphere: Quiet
Perfect For: Nature-lovers; those who want to combine skiing, wellness and sustainability with a luxurious ambience
In the heart of the Dolomites, surrounded by unspoilt nature and spectacular peaks, the Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti sets new standards for alpine luxury. Just arriving in picturesque Pinzolo makes everyday life fade away. In winter, the area is transformed into a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts: skiers find themselves just a few minutes away from the Madonna di Campiglio ski area, while snowshoe hikers can glide through the snow-covered forests.
After an active day in the fresh mountain air, the 5,000 square meter Lefay Spa, one of the largest spas in the Alps, beckons with pure enjoyment. From warming saunas and an infinity pool with a view of the winter landscape to exclusive wellness treatments – here, body and soul are pampered in equal measure. The Spa concept combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern science to guarantee deep relaxation.
The culinary delights on offer here are in no way inferior either, as their restaurant, Grual, is the proud recipient of One Michelin Star. Here, guests can indulge in fine gourmet cuisine inspired by the Dolomites and carefully crafted from regional ingredients.
Das Kranzbach Hotel & Wellness Retreat
Kranzbach, Germany
Award: Two Michelin Keys
Style: Contemporary Classic
Atmosphere: Quiet
Perfect For: Nature-lovers and wellness fans; those who want to escape the hustle-and-bustle of the slopes but still enjoy the winter sun
At the foot of the Karwendel Mountains lies the Kranzbach Hotel & Wellness Retreat, a place that combines peace and nature with alpine luxury. Framed by a wonderfully wintry landscape, this hotel is the ideal starting point for walks and snowshoe hikes through untouched nature, as both cleared and snow-covered hiking trails start directly from the door. Cross-country skiers can let off steam on the nearby trails, while those looking for a further adrenaline rush can reach the Garmisch-Classic ski area in just a few minutes by car.
The spacious spa, which covers over 3,500 square meters, offers a suitably tranquil escape. Various saunas, soothing massage treatments, and an indoor and outdoor pool with view of the winter mountain scenery, promise pure enjoyment, while to round off your stay are regional dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether hearty Alpine cuisine or lighter gourmet creations, every bite tells the story of the region.
Das Rübezahl
Schwangau, Germany
Award: One Michelin Key
Style: Contemporary Classic
Atmosphere: Quiet
Perfect For: Romantics; nature-lovers; those who want to combine alpine experiences with wellness and unique dining experiences
In the heart of the Allgäu in the Horn Schwangau district, with majestic views of the royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, lies Das Rübezahl – a refuge that combines alpine charm with modern luxury. In winter, the region transforms into a paradise for outdoor activities: skiers will find family-friendly slopes nearby and the area's illuminated toboggan runs offer fun for all ages, while snowshoe hikers and cross-country skiers can explore the quiet, snowy landscape.
For the less physically-inclined there's the Rübezahl Spa, which covers 1,000 square metres and comes complete with a tepidarium, a herbal steam bath, a Roman sauna, a salt grotto, whirlpools, a Kneipp pool and various relaxation areas. Highlights are the heated outdoor pool with a view of the snow-capped mountains and the two fairy tale castles; and, for couples, the option to retreat to the private spa suite. The culinary offerings also include some unique experiences. As well as regional specialities in the restaurant and candlelit dinners in the cosy pine parlour, there are mountain huts which invite you enjoy a particularly rustic experience – here you can enjoy Kässpatzen, fondue or a Sunday breakfast with a fantastic view of the summit.
IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau
Brail, Switzerland
Style: Contemporary Classic
Atmosphere: Lively
Perfect For: Those who appreciate alpine luxury, first-class cuisine and winter sports in an idyllic natural setting
The IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau awaits in the middle of the Engadine, far away from the lively ski resorts of St. Moritz and Pontresina. This charming boutique hotel, which is considered the smallest superior hotel in Switzerland, is a perfect retreat for nature-lovers. Surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Engadine, the hotel offers the perfect starting point for winter hikes and romantic carriage rides through the snow.
After an active day in the clear winter air, the hotel's small, exclusive wellness area invites you to relax. Unwind in the sauna in the hotel's garden, soak in the hot tub with a view of the snow-covered peaks or or float in the outdoor pool, to experience relaxation in a truly special atmosphere. Here you can unwind in the peace and quiet of nature.
The IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau has also has a lot to celebrate in terms of its cuisine. There are two restaurants that specialise in sophisticated Engadine dishes, while the Vivanda restaurants has been awarded One Michelin star for its innovative, seasonal cuisine that focuses on regional ingredients.
Family Nature Resort Moar Gut
Grossarl, Austria
Style: Traditional EleganceAtmosphere: Quiet
Perfect For: Families who want to experience an unforgettable combination of activities, wellness and luxury in a dreamlike winter landscape
The Family Nature Resort Moar Gut is located in the idyllic Grossarltal Valley – an alpine paradise that was created especially for families. Here, luxury, nature and family cosiness are combined in a unique way. In winter, the surrounding area offers countless opportunities to enjoy the snowy landscape, from skiing on the family-friendly slopes of the Ski Amadé ski area to tobogganing, ice skating or magical horse-drawn sleigh rides, there is something for everyone.
The resort itself offers a variety of activities and facilities that guarantee relaxation and entertainment for both children and adults. While the kids get their money's worth in the 1,000 square metre natural children's farm or the teens enjoy a warm chocolate massage, you can unwind in the spacious wellness area. Various saunas, indoor and outdoor pools and soothing spa treatments leave nothing to be desired. If you can't bear to leave your very little ones, there's even a baby spa with baby floating, baby yoga and more. In terms of cuisine, the spacious restaurant strikes the perfect balance between sophisticated enjoyment and family-friendly offerings, with creative, healthy dishes that rely on regional and organic ingredients.
DAS.HOCHGRAT
Oberstaufen, Germany
Style: Modern Design
Atmosphere: Quiet
Perfect For: Families, couples and those who enjoy the privacy of their own chalet
In Oberstaufen, the gateway to the Allgäu, DAS.HOCHGRAT awaits. Whether you are staying in the main building with direct access to the charming town centre or in one of the 29 luxurious Staufen chalets which afford panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, the accommodation interprets the traditional Alpine architectural style in a new and contemporary way.
The spacious chalets are perfect place for an intimate winter break, with balconies to take in the view, fully equipped designer kitchens where you can prepare warming meals, and welcoming fireplaces to cosy up beside after an active day. Whether skiing, tobogganing or winter hiking, the area offers numerous options for adventurers of all ages, with snow-covered paths and slopes inviting you to explore right outside the door. To sooth aching muscles and bring body and mind into harmony, the hotel also has an in-house wellness room which offers a range of massages, from deep tissue to lomi lomi and reflexology.
Hero Image: Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti
