Aethos Monterosa

Though it’s less famous than some other Alpine ski resorts, Monterosa, in the Val D’Aosta, is spectacular — and Champoluc, its largest village, is directly connected to the lift system for easy access. It’s here that you’ll find Aethos Monterosa, a hotel whose mission is to place as few obstacles as possible between you and the adventure you’ve come to the Alps to experience.

That’s why there’s a rock-climbing wall in the lobby, and, in winter, an ice-climbing wall on the exterior of the hotel. Clearly, this is not your grandfather’s Alpine lodge — its contemporary architecture and its modern construction, in concrete, wood, and weathered metal, see to that.

The rooms are inspired by tradition, but are contemporary in aspect, and, as is typical in the Alps, prize comfort and restoration above all else, and plenty of them have space to sleep three or four guests. There’s an indoor pool, a sauna and steam bath for post-ski recovery, and a spa for more intensive relaxation.

And, this being Italy, there’s a substantial focus on food and drink as well — though, this being Aethos Monterosa, it’s delivered with a twist. 1568 Japanese Steakhouse applies Japanese techniques to traditional Italian ingredients, while Summit brings classic Alpine cuisine into the 21st century.