Leave the sea and sand behind and enjoy a summer in the Alps this year. From snowfall to sunshine, these hotels are exceptional all year round
Words Paola Peralta
Where to go and what to do for a summer in the Alps
TERMINAL NEIGE NEIGE REFUGE DU MONTENVERS, CHAMONIX
Switch off and escape to one of the most extraordinary settings in the French Alps with Terminal Neige Refuge du Montenvers. Sitting above Chamonix, their summer digital detox experience invites you to cast your smartphone aside and spend three days hiking along the spectacular trails that surround the refuge. There is also daily yoga and meditation sessions on the refuge’s sunny outdoor terrace, delicious Savoyard food at one of two restaurants and other summer activities.
FERMES DE MARIE, MEGEVE
Summer 2018 will see Megève’s most classic hotel introducing its first ‘Eat Speak Love’ programme. This bespoke five-night experience allows guests the chance to brush up on their French speaking skills and learn some new tricks in the kitchen. The fabulous outside terraces will become the classroom, and a dedicated local teacher will hold French linguistic classes, debates and workshops to suit all abilities.
VALSALA HOTEL, AROSA
The eco-friendly Valsana Hotel is open for its first summer season. With lake-side views, Valsana has 40 rooms and 9 serviced apartments, a small spa and al fresco dining in restaurant Twist. The brand new Valsana sits at the entrance to the village; bordering the Arosa forest, flanked by the lake and surrounded by beautiful panoramic views of the mountains. Enjoy activities such as sleeping under the stars, guided hikes, yoga, paddle boarding and more, while immersing yourself in the therapeutic effects of nature.
ROSA ALPINA, SAN CASSIANO
Dr Suraj Dubey, renowned exponent of the holistic Indian medical discipline of Ayurveda, returns to Hotel Rosa Alpina this year for a series of wellness getaways. Taking place in the beautiful Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the programmes include meditation, reflexology and spa treatments. Yoga will take place in the hotel’s Wellness Centre, which features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the stunning mountains.
TSCHUGGEN GRAND HOTEL, AROSA
Tschuggen Grand Hotel is home to the state of the art 5,000 metre Bergoase Spa, Michelin dining in La Vetta and its own mountain railway, the Tschuggen Express. Arosa is well known as a ski destination but is also perfect for a mild Alpine summer getaway with a variety of activities in the most beautiful surroundings. Guests will have the chance to explore the charming Swiss resort by foot and mountain bike, before sleeping under the stars on top of the majestic Weisshorn peak.
HOTEL SASSONGHER
Hotel Sassongher is a traditional South Tyrolean family-owned hotel in the heart of the Alta Badia region. Go exploring in the mountains before relaxing in the spa and dining in the hotel’s authentic restaurants. The famous and hugely popular Maratona dles Dolomites cycle trial finishes up in the area, on which cyclists can tackle the bike trails and tough climbs while taking in the dramatic scenery. Hotel Sassongher can arrange private cycling tours across the Dolomites so guests can enjoy a unique cycling challenge at their own pace.
DAS CENTRAL, AUSTRIA
Escape to Austrian for a summer in the Alps and enjoy spa treatments and delicious dining at the 5-star Das Central Hotel. For those looking for relaxation with a hint of exclusivity, The hotel Das Central defines a holiday in Sölden – casual luxury. Guests can try mountain biking, wild swimming, rock climbing and other summer Alpine activities surrounded by some of the most breathtaking views in all of Europe. And for James Bond super-fans, Das Central is offering an exclusive behind the scenes preview of 007 Elements, where guests can immerse themselves in the behind the scenes making of a James Bond movie and have a special tour with 007 Art Director, Neal Callow who worked on Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall and Spectre.
