Best Design Hotels in Austria

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.

This is one of few ski in ski out properties in St Anton. Mooser is perched at the foot of the mountain, close to the Galzig cable car. But it isn’t only the location that sets this hotel apart, a highlight is the outdoor heated infinity pool that was built into the rock of the gorge. As such, the views are dreamy. So too are the vistas from the top-floor restaurant and bar. Huge windows provide a prime outlook, in decorative surroundings crafted in part, from reclaimed wood. Mooser’s interior design is artistic and contemporary, not least as it was only built in 2011. And it’s fully soundproofed providing a cocoon-like experience once inside. There’s also a spa incorporating an infrared sauna, dry heat sauna, rock sauna and steam room.

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.

A stay in this relatively new contemporary chalet hotel is sure to delight. Each of the 57 rooms boasts a south-facing balcony or terrace, espresso machine and minibar, while some suites offer saunas and freestanding tubs. Nidum has an outdoor infinity pool, a 1500 metre square rooftop spa with panoramic views, three dining areas and a library with over 2000 books. It’s just a 20-minute drive to Innsbruck airport, skiing is close by at Gschwandtkopf, or if visiting in summer months don’t miss a dip in lake Möserer. It tends to be more popular with couples, than families, although all holidaymakers are made most welcome.

The latest of Rosewood’s properties to open in Europe, this hotel has found a home in one of the Old Town’s refined 19th-century Petersplatz buildings, featuring Belle Epoque architecture. It maintains the Rosewood’s stellar spa reputation, with Sense, incorporating five treatment rooms, a social space and a hydrotherapy relaxation room. With 99 rooms and 27 suites, the property showcases Rosewood’s trademark luxurious elegance. Guests can drink in the rooftop bar overlooking the city, dine on a leafy garden terrace, or in a swanky indoor restaurant, feasting on a mix of native and wider European dishes.

If a boutique hotel is more your kind of thing, the Guesthouse is a member of the Design Hotels group, with Conran-designed interiors. The design ethos is manifest in a relaxed, calm but luxurious hotel that is modern and uncluttered, yet superbly comfortable. The location is right in the middle of the city, behind the Opera. Dogs are welcome, with a free bed and dog cookies provided, and every room has its own espresso machine.

The Hirt family have been at the helm of this boutique property for four generations – since its launch in the 19th century. As such, it receives a personal approach, with thoughtful touches like the aroma of pine oil through bedrooms and a curated art collection. SkyRelax & Fitness is on the third floor, with wonderful rooftop views of the Rhine Valley and mountains. It incorporates Holzmanufaktur NOHrD exercise equipment, a vitamin bar and library, and workouts and e-bike hire in the main building. hirschIV is the in-house fine dining venue with indoor and outdoor spaces. Here you can begin the day with an INTRO breakfast, geared to your own preferences.

Situated in the Europark Business Center within Salzburg’s iconic “Helix” landmark, the hotel offers 120 modern guestrooms & suites designed for both business & leisure travellers. Its interiors feature bold colours & striking art pieces, creating a bright & inviting atmosphere. The Passenger Terrace hosts regular after-work events & weekend brunches, fostering a lively social scene, while the restaurant showcases seasonal, locally sourced menus that change weekly. Enjoy the White Cube Terrace, an outdoor setting ideal for gatherings and also enjoy exclusive access to MAIKAI HELIX, a 1,000 sqm wellness space featuring AI-driven EGYM machines & sauna facilities. With its dynamic social spaces, high-tech wellness offerings & a peaceful location near the Salzach River, The Passenger delivers a boutique experience that blends modern comfort with Salzburg’s creative spirit.

Situated in the city centre between two parks, Le Meridien Vienna is a luxury hotel with an emphasis on combining modern design with ultimate comfort. The rooms are chic, calm and welcoming. There’s a superbly designed fitness centre and spa with its own swimming pool, and you can also book a massage, wellness treatment or session with a personal trainer. There are two lounges – one with a DJ or live music in the evenings, while the other is a little more relaxed and has a champagne bar.

This family home was repurposed as a small hotel in 1929 (the building itself dates back to 1451) and is still family-run. It’s close to the Arlberg ski area – guests can ski in and out directly from the building – and centrally placed in Lech. But with two restaurants, an in-house cinema, a smoking lounge with a pool table, a spa and an indoor pool there’s little need to stray far. Both the interior style and cuisine fits with modern Alpine living. There’s also a ski boot room with a boot dryer, and for families, the children’s club, playroom and puppet theatre are very welcome additions.