These exclusive, design-forward retreats offer comfort, elegance, and adventure across Switzerland, Austria, and Italy.
Located across the rugged mountains of Switzerland, Austria, and Italy, The Aficionados––a travel resource that combines luxury, design and authenticity–– presents an exclusive selection of destinations designed to rediscover the pleasures of winter in authentic and charming settings. The season’s offerings invite guests to experience a fusion of Alpine tradition and contemporary design in retreats distinguished by understated comfort and a cosmopolitan touch, in iconic locations such as Zermatt, Lech Zürs, and the Dolomites. These spaces welcome visitors looking for spaces with cozy fireplaces and an inviting ambiance, and those who seek the thrill of snowed slopes.
Regardless of the purpose, these eight settings have one thing in common: they meld classic and modern styles with an intention of surpassing their guests’ expectations, providing a curation for those seeking an alternative to large resorts and a return to essentials in unique, lesser-known destinations.
ENJOYING WINTER FROM THE INSIDE ––
The list begins with Brücke 49, in Vals, Switzerland. This property is a haven of informal luxury with a Nordic touch in a property with over 250 years of history. Authenticity is felt and experienced in its spaces, ideal for meditation, reflection, relaxation, and creating meaningful memories.
The absolute calm defines the four rooms at Pontisella in Graubünden, Switzerland, each named after the herbs that scent its garden: rosemary, lavender, sage, and thyme. Each room is an expression of quiet luxury, featuring natural materials that harmonize with the sturdy simplicity of this property, surrounded by the peaks of Agio di Sciora in the Bregaglia range of the Grison Alps.
Next up, perched on a sunny plateau in Hafling, Italy, the Miramonti Boutique Hotel & Spa overlooks Merano, offering panoramic views of South Tyrol's Alto Adige. Blending Alpine charm with modern design, this retreat’s history dates to 1932, evolving over time to include a Panorama Restaurant and stylish, minimalist rooms, making it a haven for relaxation, gastronomy, and scenic indulgence.
Beausite, a Belle Époque palace in Zermatt, in the canton of Valais, Switzerland, transports guests to the golden age of mountaineering. Its spaces and 61 rooms pay tribute to the pioneers of this renowned Alpine destination, while contemporary design elements bring its dramatic, modern, yet vintage essence to life. An unmissable spot in a domain with 360 kilometers of slopes.
A SELECTION FOR SKI GOERS ––
In Alba Badia, Italy, Lagació is set in the bucolic surroundings of San Cassiano, where modernity and nature harmonize in an eco-resort with warm, light-filled wooden interiors that pay homage to Ladin culture. With absolute simplicity and no pretension, this property reinterprets the essence of the chalet for those who value independence in a destination known for its Michelin-starred cuisine and proximity to the 1,200 km Dolomites ski circuit.
Nestled in Lech, Austria, the Alpine heritage of Lech Am Arlberg is palpable here. Blending memories of the past with a refined contemporary character, the Hotel Arlberg is an eclectic haven featuring 51 luxurious suites with a warm atmosphere. Subtle objects tell the story of a three-generation family in one of the world’s largest ski areas.
Situated in Plose, Italy, the Anders Mountain Suites blend seamlessly with the landscape in a harmonious dialogue. At an altitude of 1,850 meters above sea level, the seven luxurious rooms of this property take the breath away of architecture and design enthusiasts. Their large windows offer unique panoramas, enjoyed comfortably in spaces free of pretension and perfect for introspection.
Last but not least, Art and Relax Hotel Bergwelt in Austria’s Gurgl region offers a luxurious ski and spa experience with Tyrolean slopes right outside. This boutique hotel blends Alpine charm with modern touches—featuring wood accents, unique collectibles, and a cozy atmosphere. With 60s-inspired architecture and a relaxing spa, it’s a haven for ski and design enthusiasts.
ABOUT THE AFICIONADOS
Founded by Iain Ainsworth, THE AFICIONADOS is a travel resource for those seeking fabulous recommendations and accommodation that effortlessly fuses luxury, design and authenticity. It comprises over 90 hotels, designer homes for private hire and guesthouses, from all across Europe and a fabulous outpost in New York, the United States, together with a selection of over 100 creatives who round out the offer of this culture and lifestyle emporium for travel and good living. The Aficionados also publishes six printed magazines: Blueprint Beauts, Farmhouse Fabulous, Casa Gorgeous, Neu Heritage, Alchemists of Italy, and Eclectic Rebels
