05 Oct Kaluma’s Hidden Hotel Gems
Ski resorts have an abundance of the world’s most luxurious hotels to choose from so it is sometimes quite easy to overlook the hidden gems, so we’ve shared below are some of the best kept secrets we know.
At Kaluma we pride ourselves on the fact that we have good partnerships with only the best hotels and we hope to share the love below.
The Himmlhof – St Anton – Austria
As with all Austrian hotels, the minute you walk through the door you are greeted with a warm welcome and more often than not a welcome drink. The Himmlhof is no exception and feels as though you have walked into a stylish yet cosy environment.
A few reasons why we love this hotel:
- It’s just off the main street so although perfectly central it is also quiet due to its tucked away location.
- Its stunning décor, handcrafted interior with unique and traditional timber will make you feel like you are in the epitome of an Austrian escape.
- The hotel boasts a beautiful spa and five star treatment facilities.
- The attentive owners will see to your every need
- All rooms booked on a B&B basis which allows you to enjoy all that St Anton has to offer in the evenings – which is a lot!
- Traditional, local breakfast buffet, open fire and best of all an honesty bar in the evening.
Hotel Himmlhof Lounge, St Anton
La Bouitte – St Martin – France
Ok, so this is a bit of a cheat as it has such a great reputation, but we couldn’t resist. Due to its three Michelin star restaurant it is a firm favourite with our guests and even after it’s huge success we love that it still holds it’s rustic charm and is still run by a father and son team. We love this hotel for the following reasons:
- Nestled into a quiet Alpine hamlet it literally is a hidden gem.
- The three Michelin star restaurant is any wine and food lovers idea of heaven, it is Andy our directors favourite place to dine.
- It is cosy, romantic and perfect for a quiet, luxurious getaway.
- It has a huge sun terrace, which makes a perfect destination for a long lunch.
- You can charter your own helicopter back to Courchevel meaning you can enjoy your Michelin tasting lunch and still get back in time for the last lift home.
La Bouitte Terrace, Saint Martin
Mondschein – Stuben – Austria
Mondschein’s tag line is “where tradition mingles with the future” and that is exactly why we love it! This charming hotel is nestled in the heart of the Arlberg resort of Stuben and has developed a great reputation in a very short space of time. The hotel has been recognised as one of the top environmentally aware hotels in Europe and we also commend them for that. See below why we also think it is worthy of a visit:
- The fascinating mix of old meets new with a traditional look from the outside but with modern, spacious and luxurious interiors.
- The hotel has a wine cave dating back 100’s of years and they have in-house tasting on offer.
- For lunches off the mountain the hotel has a fantastic traditional wooden Stuberl.
- A complimentary shuttle to pick up tired skiers from around the Arlberg to come back for lunch.
Hotel Mondschein Wine Cellar, Stuben
The Capra – Saas-Fee – Switzerland
The Capra is a new find for us and we are delighted to have come across it. Set in the quiet yet picturesque town of Saas-Fee the whole town is literally a breath of fresh air due to its car free policy. The hotel prides itself on it’s holistic approach and tranquil environment. The high altitude will also ensure you can be skiing up until at least April which is always a bonus for us. Other reasons to enjoy it are:
- Daily wellness classes including one free yoga class a day.
- Menus are designed with wellness and traditional incorporated and whether you are being healthy or indulging in Alpine cuisine you can be safe in the knowledge that everything has been sourced ethically and sustainably.
- The old barn at the bottom of the mountain has now been converted into a ski in ski out private cabin which features boot, glove and helmet warmers and to make sure you are perfectly looked after you can even enjoy a hot chocolate before or after day skiing.
Spa Facilities at The Capra, Saas-Fee
Kimamaya Boutique Hotel – Japan
Japan as a ski destination is a hidden gem in itself. If the powder skiing doesn’t take your breath away the surroundings, food, calmness and sense of serenity and organisation will do… did we mention the food. Kimamaya Boutique Hotel is small with only nine rooms but it is big on personality and emotion. Set in the middle of Niseko Hirafu, Japan’s renowned ski haven on the northern island of Hokkaido..
- A must on the to do list is to visit The Onsens – we found the whole experience both liberating and relaxing
- The food is a fusion of alpine and Japanese cuisine.
- Exquisite snow conditions and even beginners can try the powder skiing
Kimamaya Boutique Hotel, Japan
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