DAS EDELWEISS Salzburg Mountain Resort Review

The chic foyer of Das Edelweiss is the perfect warm and welcoming refuge from the chilly temperatures outside. The attentive staff and friendly fellow guests offer an unmistakable aura of calm, radiating warmth with every smile, and making you feel instantly at home. 

The stunning hotel is a family-owned gem, lovingly cared for and passed down through generations of the Hettegger family. Over the years, Das Edelweiss has evolved from a humble 14-room guesthouse and cafe into a breathtaking modern resort nestled among picturesque snowy mountains, where the legacy is evident in the atmosphere. It boasts one of Europe’s finest spas, Michelin-worthy cuisine that dances on your palate, and lots of unique spaces to unwind. Whether you’re visiting Das Edelweiss for a romantic couple’s getaway or a luxury family adventure, guests will never be left feeling bored.

Background and Concept 

More than just a luxury getaway, the family motto of “come as a guest, leave as a friend” resonates throughout the stunning Das Edelweiss, where every detail is cultivated to provide genuine togetherness and foster deep connections with partners, friends, families, and even solo travellers are invited to get introspective and reconnect with themselves.

The warm-hearted duo Karin and Peter head up the Hettegger family, truly embodying hospitality. Their commitment to creating shared memories is evident as they weave their family traditions into every aspect of the Resort. Every inch of the property tells a story, reflecting the family’s journey of transforming it into the immaculately designed Resort it is today. Recent renovations have introduced sophisticated adults-only suites for a luxury escape, complete with private pools and sweeping mountain vistas.

The passionate, diligent team provides a wealth of expertise to ensure every visitor receives an unparalleled five-star service. From personalised greetings to expertly crafted experiences, the Hettegger family’s dedication to hospitality shines through. 

Guests are welcomed into a family tradition that promises an unforgettable experience, warmth, and togetherness in an enchanting and nurturing environment. Das Edelweiss is a place where special memories are born and where laughter echoes through the halls. Whether savouring a meal together or relaxing in the elegantly designed authentic spaces, guests will leave with lasting memories and a sense of belonging. 

Location

Serving as the perfect launchpad for a wealth of adventures, Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort is situated in the enchanting Grossarl Valley, a serene side valley of St. Johann im Pongau, framed by the majestic Grossarl mountain peaks. The Resort is ideally located just steps away from the valley station of the panorama gondola. The Resort offers seamless access to the ski paradise of Großarltal-Dorfgastein within the renowned Amadé ski association during the winter months. During summer, Das Edelweiss transforms into a base for hiking, exploring, and indulging in the many activities available on the adventure mountain Grossarl. For guests who would like to experience the rich culture and heritage of the historic city, Salzburg is a mere 70 km north and provides endless opportunities for excursions and exploration. 

Food and Drink

Das Edelweiss offers exceptional, diverse, and enticing dining experiences. The hotel prides itself on its commitment to quality and locally sourced ingredients, which is highlighted by the leadership of Head Chef Alexander Hettegger. The kitchen utilises domestic and seasonal products sourced personally from trusted local suppliers, including dairy farmers and meat from their own butchery, Grossarler Genuss. Fresh fish is sourced from a nearby fish farm, and the renowned Grüll manufactory in Salzburg provides luxury items such as oysters and caviar. Guests can also savour bread from a local baker or freshly made by the kitchen team. 

Sakura & Sushi Bar

Embark on a journey for all five senses with Sakura’s beautiful Asian fusion cuisine. The intense flavours and beautiful presentation of the dishes truly show the guidance and influence of Alexis Savanxayadeth and his wealth of experience honing his craft. Paired with delicious wines, every dish is a gourmet experience.

Sirloin Grill & Dine

Combining sophisticated cuisine with the art of grilling, Sirloin offers the ultimate indulgent experience for meat lovers. The in-house restaurant has been a culinary highlight since its opening in 2021 and has been awarded two Gault Millau toques for its high quality and excellent flavour. Enjoy the open show kitchen and watch as chef Fabian Ertl cooks your meal to perfection.

Restaurant Hoamat 78

Continuing its focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, Restaurant Hoamat 78 offers a seasonally changing menu featuring traditional local cuisines and delicious stone-oven-baked pizzas. Its smart casual dress code makes it the perfect stop for a relaxing family dinner or a romantic evening for two.

Alpinbar

The stylish Alpinbar is the perfect place to relax over a delicious cocktail after a busy day skiing, hiking or exploring. Their 12 signature cocktails cannot be missed – whether you try just one or sample all 12. The Alpin syrups add a distinctive taste to each drink, lovingly prepared by the talented expert team at Alpinbar.

Wine Bar Kork & Gloria

A paradise for wine connoisseurs, the restaurant’s selection of over 1500 local and international wines ensures that all palates will be satisfied. Guests can enjoy a selection of gourmet bites with their drinks while nestled in a cosy and inviting bar. They can also take part in wine tastings and wine seminars with the expert sommelier team. 

Spa Bistro

Guests can enjoy light refreshments and drinks in their comfortable spa bathrobes as they unwind after a relaxing day in the spa. The Spa Bistro is the perfect peaceful spot to sit with a cool drink and stunning mountain views while basking in the serenity of the spa. 

Rooms and Suites 

All rooms are furnished with high-quality, natural materials and styled in warm and welcoming contemporary tones. The rooms are built with comfort in mind, providing the perfect sanctuary to rest after a busy day. Guests can relax tired muscles under the glorious rainfall showers before slipping into a plush robe and enjoying the beautiful views. The underfloor heating in the bathroom areas offers an extra dose of comfort after a busy day, and with the first filling of the mini-bar included, guests don’t need to stray far for an evening drink.

My Room During My Stay –  Junior Suite Deluxe II 

I recently had the pleasure of staying in one of the Resort’s Junior Suite Deluxe rooms, and much like the rest of the Resort, it didn’t disappoint. The warm and inviting interiors provided a sense of calm from the moment you walked through the door. From the sumptuous bedding to the cosy sofa area, the room was a great size to relax and take in the stunning mountain views. The underfloor heating in the bathroom area was especially welcome in the winter months and added to the feeling of home evident throughout the hotel. The pièce de résistance had to be the sprawling private balcony, which was fully furnished with plush sun loungers and a dining set. The snowy mountains’ views were breathtaking, and this was my favourite place to start my day, where I could soak in the views with a hot cup of tea in hand.  

Other Facilities

7,000m² Mountain Spa 

The Resort’s expansive spa experience takes relaxation to new heights – quite literally, with the impressive 7,000m² Edelweiss Mountain Spa spread across five floors. Thoughtfully designed to immerse guests in a world of tranquillity and rejuvenation, it boasts a comprehensive daily program of speciality treatments and experiences and multiple pools for guests to relax in.

The spa provides a variety of thermal experiences with their Sauna World, which features various sauna options tailored to different aspects of wellness. Enjoy the gentle warmth of the Bio Sauna, the deep relaxation of the infrared sauna, or the invigorating atmosphere of the traditional Finnish sauna. Each sauna is designed to cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalised experience. Among these is the Sauna Cleanse, where skilled therapists guide guests through traditional cleansing rituals that rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. This immersive experience is complemented by soothing soundscapes and serene visuals, creating a holistic, relaxing environment. 

With a wide range of massages, beauty treatments, and wellness therapies, guests looking for additional pampering are in luck. Utilising high-quality natural products, the treatments are designed to reinvigorate and restore guests. The spa has dedicated areas for relaxation, including quiet zones where visitors can unwind before or after treatments. 

With its breathtaking mountain views, modern amenities, and focus on holistic well-being, the Edelweiss Mountain Spa at Das Edelweiss Resort is the perfect retreat for anyone seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with their inner selves in a stunning alpine setting. The Spa Bistro is the perfect place to grab a nutritious post-spa snack after a busy day of relaxing, without leaving the comforting cocoon of the spa environment.  

Family Spa and Waterworld 

Family is at the heart of everything Das Edelweiss does, so it’s no surprise that the Resort offers an extensive Family Spa and Waterworld. The spacious indoor pool, exclusively for families, boasts breathtaking views of the Großarl mountains. The family pools are perfectly heated for the youngest swimmers, with plenty of relaxation areas for parents to unwind in the soothing atmosphere.  

Families can also use the textile family saunas, which provide a wellness experience that everyone can enjoy together. For those seeking more excitement, an entire floor dedicated to waterslides is guaranteed to keep both kids and adults entertained for hours. 

Skiing: Ski In, Ski Out 

At Das Edelweiss Resort, guests can enjoy unrivalled ski-in and ski-out facilities that make winter sports feel effortless. With direct access to the ski slopes, adventurers can hit the powder right from their doorstep. The Resort features a top-of-the-line ski depot, complete with room-specific, heated lockers. Guests can keep their ski gear secure and toasty, ready for the next day’s adventures. The lockers are monitored by video surveillance for added peace of mind. 

The free ski lift for children is situated just 700 meters away, making it easier for families to get everybody slope-ready. The adjacent ski school offers tailored lessons, and the  in-house ski rental service provides convenience for guests looking to gear up without using up their luggage allowances. Additionally blending convenience with exceptional service, the Resort’s collaboration with the renowned ‘Sport Panorama’ Ski School ensures guests of all ages and abilities can effortlessly arrange lessons. At Das Edelweiss, the ski adventure begins right at the heart of the Resort, creating unforgettable memories.

High-tech Fitness Centre 

The fitness centre at Das Edelweiss Resort in Austria features cutting-edge Techno Gym equipment, blending modern aesthetics with advanced technology to create a cohesive workout experience. Guests can choose from a wide range of cardio machines and strength training gear equipped with interactive touch screens to provide personalised fitness tracking and offer guided exercise programs.

The gym offers engaging fitness classes led by certified trainers, along with virtual yoga and high-intensity training offers. For guests who prefer a more gentle well-being experience, the dedicated spaces for stretching and relaxation are the perfect place to get moving in the stunning setting of the Austrian Alps.

Innovative and Nurturing Kids’ Club Facilities for All Ages

The Resort features engaging clubs that cater to children of all ages, with dedicated spaces to accommodate each developmental stage. Childcare is included in your hotel stay for children aged 3 and older. Baby care is available for an additional charge and can be arranged through the hotel. 

Baby Mountain Area

The Baby Mountain Club features the latest in baby equipment to ensure even the tiniest of travellers can have a fun, engaging, and nurturing time with the loving club team. From engaging crawling towers to baby playgrounds and even a dedicated sleep area, your baby will be in safe and caring hands.

EDELWEISS Prince & Princess Land

Children aged 3-6 will be treated like royalty, with cooking areas, interactive carpet games, and a dedicated arts and crafts room where they are encouraged to unleash their inner artists. The Edelweiss Prince & Princess Land perfectly balances fun and educational activities to keep your little ones thoroughly entertained.

Young Mountain Area

Kids ages 6-12 years can burn off some energy in the vibrant Young Mountain Area, which is filled with thrilling, energetic games to keep even the most energetic kids happy and entertained. They’ll never be short of something to do with the club’s mini football field, trampolines, slides and ball pits.  

Cool Mountain Area

Teenagers aged 13-16 have their own dedicated space in the newly renovated 1,000-square-foot teen club where they can enjoy some independent time away from their parents. The club features high-tech iWall and Sisy Fox gaming equipment, interactive game tables, and other exciting and entertaining games.

Unique Selling Points

• Enjoy the convenience of the ski in and out facilities to make every moment of your day count.
• Experience the best family spa in Austria with their tailored wellness programs for all ages. 
• The separate areas for adults-only and family travellers means whether you’re travelling for a romantic retreat or family fun, Das Edelweiss has you covered 
• The diverse culinary offerings will leave every palate feeling tantalised and satisfied.
• With expansive activity programs, there is something for every guest, and every season. 
• The scenic alpine location offers breathtaking views to savour throughout your trip
• The dedicated children’s programs and childcare services for all age groups take some of the stress out of family travel.

TLE Top Tips

• Enjoy the waterslides—yes, they’re for adults too, and you’ll love being part of the thrills! 
• Participate in candlelit yoga; this guided meditation is a wonderful way to nurture your well-being and achieve inner peace. 
• Take advantage of the Resort’s extensive spa facilities. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or relax in the sauna after a day of outdoor adventures. 
• Explore the local town of Grossal; you’ll find quaint shops, beautiful churches and local markets. 
• Try the local cuisine: Dine at the Resort’s restaurants and sample traditional Austrian dishes, such as Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel, for an authentic culinary experience. 
• Visit the Resort in different seasons: In winter, the magic of Christmas comes alive with festive markets, torch-lit woodland explorations, and musical performances by the fire, all while savouring hot mulled wine. During spring and summer, the allure shifts to refreshing outdoor pool dips, invigorating fitness retreats, and scenic mountain hikes. Grossarl, famously known as the “Valley of Mountain Huts,” invites adventurers to discover around 40 alpine huts, welcoming hikers with homemade delicacies, including bread, butter, cheese, bacon, sausage, and even locally distilled schnapps. 
• Join a guided tour to learn more about the region’s natural beauty and history. These tours can provide insider tips on hidden gems in the area. 

Final Thoughts

Before I even entered Das Edelweiss Resort, I was immediately blown away by the breathtaking scenic views, and knew my trip was going to be peaceful and relaxing. From my first encounter to my last, the team’s hospitality made me feel at home and offered me a sanctuary from all the worries of daily life.  

The Resort’s attention to detail was clear and flowed beautifully through every area of the Resort. Every facility was meticulously maintained, creating an atmosphere of understated luxury. I appreciated the separate adult and family areas, which allowed for a balanced environment where everyone could relax and enjoy their time at the Resort, regardless of their age. 

The Resort managed to blend adventure and tranquility perfectly, with beautiful scenic hikes and exhilarating ski sessions underscored by the stunning mountain views. This trip opened my eyes to the thrill of winter sports – and the joys of a serene spa to soothe the sore muscles afterwards. 

My stay was a rejuvenating experience that left me inspired to return to the Austrian mountains and explore even more. I left Das Edelweiss with fond memories of new friends, and a renewed sense of purpose and connection to nature.