Home of the world’s most powerful feeder mountain lifts, Sölden boasts some of the highest peaks in the Tyrol. At over 3000 metres, the panoramas in this Austrian resort are exceptional, the snow is guaranteed and the glaciers are breathtaking. A surprising additional draw for tourists is the 007 ELEMENTS James Bond Adventure World. Set into the side of a mountain, this incredible cinematic installation explores the movies and world of the famous fictional spy. But which hotel should you choose when staying in this part of the Ötztal Valley?
Designhotel Bergland Sölden
Daniel Craig stayed here while filing Spectre – quite possibly in the huge three-bedroom James Bond Suite. Guests can also sleep in a Wellness Suite that includes a balcony, a freestanding bathtub and water bed in the bedroom, a private sauna, a separate living area with a couch, rocking chair and wall bars. This hotel’s philosophy is “active relaxation and enjoyment”. Much of this takes place at its fifth floor Sky Spa, with a pool, saunas, steam baths and a beauty and exercise programme designed to slow the ageing process. The property has its own wine cellar, a cigar lounge and an a la carte restaurant.
Hotel Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life .
The three-storey Venice themed spa at Hotel Das Central is quite something. The indoor pool area features a real-life gondola and a replica of St Mark’s Square, while the saunas, steam baths, brine grotto, Kneipp basins, fresh air room, ice grotto and a water-bedded Asian relaxation room will ease away any aches and pains after a day’s skiing. Das central’s dining offer is also very special. Dishes at the à la carte restaurant Ötztaler Stube are nothing short of artistic wonders. Hearty fondue evenings are held in the wine cellar, if you fancy something more relaxed and you’ll be spoilt for choice for wines to accompany your meal – there are around 30,000 bottles stored here.
Vaya Sölden
Occupying a prime position in the village centre, close to the ski lifts, Vaya is a relatively recent build, having opened in 2016. Breakfast is always included in your stay in this modern establishment whose exterior resembles a luxury yacht. Natural wood features heavily in the design, inside and out, complemented by muted colours. VAYA’s Bar & Grill offers lunch and dinner, as well as a fine morning buffet. The menu places a focus on Mediterranean inspired cuisine and is carefully considered to include many plant-based dishes. Hot and cold experiences are available in the spa, and the rooftop terrace is a great place to unwind.
Hotel Liebe Sonne
Ski right to the door of Hotel Liebe Sonne. The brand is well set up for slope-seekers, with its own ski school, ski tours provided by the in-house guide and an equipment rental store. It’s also very pet and family-friendly; amenities include a children’s playroom, table tennis and air hockey. The hotel’s wellness centre and pool (with waterfalls and massage jets) encompass both the fourth and fifth floors of the building, with the Bel Etage Spa offering therapies and beauty treatments. An outdoor sunbathing lawn and the large terrace are perfect for summer days. Organic multi-course menus are served in the on-site gourmet restaurant.
