Away from the pistes

Not everyone pursues the magic of winter in the exact same way. Whilst some throw themselves body and soul into the bustling world of the alpine ski resorts, charging from one exhilarating piste to the next, others opt for a far gentler approach. For much also awaits discovery away from the pistes. And we are not referring here to the deep-snow slopes. Winter hikes, sledding adventures, cross-country skiing, fresh mountain air and the convivial hut atmosphere can all be enjoyed without carving skis. Not to mention extraordinary culinary enjoyment and glorious opportunities for winter wellness.
However, should you prefer not to abandon your carving skis, we heartily recommend our previous article "A little daydreaming is allowed“.

We set out on a journey that takes us to Tyrol, the location of three Schlosshotel jewels, before we present one rather extraordinary destination away from the pistes.

What a feeling it is, when the snow crunches beneath your snowshoes and the journey is its own reward. Casting off the cares of daily life, with your next step the only thing that matters. The Strasserwirt invites you to embark on a snowshoeing adventure. 5 nights with gourmet board, including one 4-course dinner and one 6-course dinner in the evening courtesy of the toque-awarded Strasserwirt kitchen. During the daytime, enjoy the winter countryside, in the evening, a convivial sit-down in front of the crackling fireplace. In the meantime, restore harmony between body & soul in the in-house SPA, featuring four saunas along with a relaxation area.

offer details

The countless magical opportunities of wintertime, with Gasthof Herrnhaus in Brixlegg in the midst of them all. Recently crowned with a toque from Gault & Millau and chosen as Tyrol's "Wine Cellarer of the Year", all the experiences of the day can be celebrated come evening in the most beautiful dining spaces imaginable. Incidentally, each of those dining rooms is well worth a visit in its own right, hence it is best to plan in several evenings. Ultimately, all that is left to do is decide whether you are in the mood for a spot of alpine or cross-country skiing, sledding or hiking. A free ski bus stops right outside the front door to bring you to Alpbachtal, an absolute jewel for skiers one and all.

offer details

Not far from Gasthof Herrnhaus is yet another of our association's culinary jewels: history-rich Landgasthof Linde. For over 500 years, this gem in the heart of Zillertal's mountain world has enchanted its guests with one-of-a-kind service and authentic Zillertal charm. A conscious juxtaposition to the anonymity of big businesses and hotel chains. Selected by Gault & Millau as its "Wirtshaus des Jahres 2020", the emphasis here is squarely on refined gourmet cuisine with deep local roots. Only two kilometers away lies the valley lift station for the Hochfügen-Hochzillertal ski region. If, however, you are looking for a change of pace from alpine skiing, you are greeted by a broad palette of other recreational opportunities: ice climbing, sledding, snowshoeing and even paragliding. And if we might add one final recommendation: Despite so many culinary delicacies, please don't overlook their legendary Zwiebelrostbraten!

offer details

Comfortably removed from the weekend hustle and bustle, you will discover a very special way to experience Vienna. At the Altstadt Vienna, an astonishing universe reveals itself before your eyes, a universe which encapsulates all the contradictions and yearnings that make Vienna so unique. This hotel is every bit as unique and multilayered as the city and its history. Whether designed by famous architects such as Matteo Thun, by contemporary stars of the fashion scene like Lena Hoschek, or inspired by pioneer of the Wiener Werkstätte, Josef Hofmann - no single living space is like another. From your new home-away-from-home, you can fan out to explore the best coffeehouses in the city and, upon your return, quietly mull over the day's memories in front of the fireplace of the "Red Salon".

offer details

Discover a gentle winter away from the pistes!