Alpine Retreats Around the Globe

Travel

January 3, 2024

Words by: Mona Rose Butler

Divine destinations to ski, shop, and dine

St. Moritz, Switzerland

Nestled in the Engadine valley amidst the Swiss Alps, is St. Moritz. Considered by many as the birthplace of Alpine tourism and famous for its manicured slopes and mineral springs, the region has earned its reputation for being a world-renowned ski destination. In addition to the usual winter crowd, 30,000 more spectators flock to the region for the White Turf races. On these days, skikjöring is the focus where riders are pulled on skis behind thoroughbred racehorses down a 2,700 metre-long track. The event is bolstered by live music, art, and food, and takes place on three Sundays every February. The 5-star Kulm Hotel St. Moritz has been welcoming guests for over 165 years with rooms and suites built to accommodate solo travellers and families alike. The hotel offers spectacular views of the mountains and lake, along with seven dining options, a spa, pools, and saunas.

www.kulm.com

Aspen, Colorado

Among the majestic Rocky Mountains is Aspen, Colorado, one of the United States’ most popular winter sporting destinations. From intense vertical descents to gentle slopes, this unforgettable area offers opportunities for thrillseekers of every degree. Within the city, which has been a hub of the area since the silver boom in the 1880s, visitors can meander through the shops, which include brands such as Chanel, Dior, Prada, Gucci, and Moncler. Aspen’s oldest place of accommodation, the stately Hotel Jerome, has proudly stood on Main Street since 1889. The 3-storey red brick building offers 94 rooms in four styles plus a spa and six dining options, including the legendary J-Bar where the late Hunter S. Thompson and other celebrities have gathered over the years. The hotel is considered a major landmark and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. 

www.aubergeresorts.com

Champoluc, Italy

Champoluc is one of three resorts in the Monterosa region, boasting sweeping views of glaciers and mountain peaks. While it may be quieter than nearby Gressoney-La-Trinité and Alagna Valsesia, Champoluc has all the necessary amenities and is known for its fantastic après ski offerings. The resort’s slopes lean more towards beginners, but advanced skiers and snowboarders have access to heliskiing and breathtaking off-piste terrain. Aethos Monterosa is the perfect pied-à-terre for the active and outdoorsy with 2-level elegant suites that can accommodate two to four individuals each. The hotel blends soft natural elements with modernist architecture to boldly stand out from the snowy backdrop. Guests have access to two restaurants, a spa, a climbing wall, a boxing gym, personal trainers, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

www.aethos.com

Megève, France

Charming Megève, a village in the French Alps, has been welcoming tourists since the 19th century, though skiing was not popularized in the area until 1914. Visitors have access to downhill runs, cross-country trails, and backcountry skiing and snowboarding opportunities, most of which are accessible directly from the village. A stroll through town will uncover one-of-a-kind boutiques and iconic brand names like Hermès and Loro Piana. In perfect harmony with the surrounding area, Les Fermes de Marie blends the comforting appeal of alpine chalets with modern amenities and elegance. The 5-star hotel’s unique accommodations are rustic without loss of charm or comfort. Choose from 70 rooms and suites at the hotel or beautiful chalets steps from the village centre. Each chalet comes with personalized concierge service, as well as easy access to the hotel’s amenities.

www,en.fermesdemarie.com

Mont Tremblant, Quebec

Found in Eastern Canada’s Laurentian Mountains, Mont Tremblant is a hub of winter activity. Designed for beginners and experts alike, visitors are sure to find a suitable slope among the 102 different trails. Take in the stunning views from the comfort of a gondola or by trekking to the top on skis or snowshoes. The village stands as a destination of its own. Restaurant offerings are a combination of local Quebequois fare and international flavours. Quaint souvenir shops, specialty ski and snowboard gear stores, and galleries line the cobblestone streets, reminiscent of a European town. At the base of the mountain, steps from the village, stands the Fairmont Mont Tremblant, the oldest and largest hotel in the area. The modern interior has the comfort of a countryside chalet with the grandeur that guests expect of a Fairmont property. It is the only ski-in/ski-out resort on the mountain, assisted by a ski valet who stores guest’s equipment in a heated facility, so it’s always ready for another run.

www.fairmont.com/tremblant

Lech, Austria

Lech is Austria’s largest ski area and the fifth largest in the world. Located in the awe-inspiring Alps, this wonderland village has the highest average snowfall of any major ski area in the Alps, making the surrounding slopes and terrain perfect for all types of skiing, from cross-country to heli. Visitors will find restaurants and cafes not only within the village, but at the lift stations as well. Though contemporary and traditional Austrian cuisine dominates the scene, hungry diners can also find Italian, Asian fusion, and French restaurants. Severin*s—The Alpine Retreat combines modern touches with the undeniable quaintness of the surrounding area. The hotel offers nine luxurious suites, as well as one residence which sleeps eight people. Guests enjoy three dining options, a pool, sauna, and a gym equipped with high-tech cardio and weight machines.

www.severins-lech.at/en/

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