Escape to the Alps: Three Extraordinary Mountain Retreats
The allure of the mountains is undeniable. The crisp air, the breathtaking views, and the sense of serene isolation offer an escape from the frenetic pace of modern life. For those seeking an extraordinary getaway immersed in nature and luxury, the Alps provide a stunning backdrop. This article explores three unique hotels, each offering a distinct experience in the heart of the mountains: Eriro Alpine Hide in the Tyrolean Alps, Chetzeron in the Swiss Alps, and Forestis Villa in the Italian Dolomites.
Eriro Alpine Hide: A Tyrolean Dreamscape
Perched at an altitude of 1,550 meters in the Tyrolean mountains, Eriro Alpine Hide presents a striking wooden facade against the majestic backdrop of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. This exclusive establishment, a labor of love by a group of friends from the local village of Ehrwald, is accessible by cable car, adding to its secluded charm.
Eriro’s foundation is rooted in the past. The structure incorporates elements from huts dating back to the 1930s, blending history with contemporary design. The construction utilizes wood sourced directly from the surrounding forest, further integrating the hotel into its natural environment.
The hotel boasts nine rooms, each embodying a minimalist aesthetic. White wooden furniture and an abundance of natural-colored wool throws create a relaxed yet chic atmosphere. The focus at Eriro is on providing guests with an unparalleled experience, encouraging disconnection from the everyday and immersion in a vibrant, ecologically conscious environment.
The restaurant at Eriro emphasizes the importance of local sourcing. The menu is crafted exclusively from regional products, showcasing the bounty of the Tyrolean landscape. Forget avocados and soy milk; here, you’ll find rich, creamy milk from a neighboring farm and freshly picked blueberries. This commitment to local ingredients not only supports the community but also ensures the freshest and most flavorful dishes.
Eriro offers a variety of activities designed to help guests discover the rich heritage of the Tyrol region. Participate in a wood carving workshop, explore the surrounding trails on a guided night hike with headlamps, or simply relax and rejuvenate in the spa.
The spa at Eriro offers a unique blend of traditional and modern wellness practices. Guests can immerse themselves in the warm waters of an onsen-inspired bath before indulging in a sound bowl session. The experience culminates in a moment of pure relaxation in the suspended loungers.
Eriro Alpine Hide is more than just a hotel; it’s an experience. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, rediscover yourself, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The all-inclusive nightly rate starts at €1,550 for two people.
Chetzeron: A James Bond-esque Mountain Hideaway
If architectural style were a tangible thing, Chetzeron would undoubtedly be classified as a "James Bond" hotel. This incredible Swiss accommodation, situated at an altitude of 2,112 meters above Crans-Montana, evokes the image of a secret hideout worthy of a spy film.
This isolated haven occupies a former cable car station from the 1960s. Its rugged stone exterior conceals a treasure trove of mountain design, enveloped in a reassuring silence. The interior is a harmonious blend of concrete, oak, and glass, masterfully orchestrated by Ambroise Bonvin of Actescollectifs.
A soaring fireplace illuminates a cathedral-like bar, while immense bay windows offer breathtaking panoramic views. Guests can also enjoy a heated outdoor pool and a luxurious spa.
With just sixteen rooms, Chetzeron provides an intimate and exclusive experience. The hotel is first and foremost a high-altitude retreat, offering extraordinary views of iconic peaks such as the Bishorn, Weisshorn, Obergabelhorn, Zinalrothorn, Besso, Dent Blanche, and the Matterhorn.
Summer and winter alike, Chetzeron encourages connection with the vast surrounding landscape. Hiking, snowshoeing, and mountain biking are just a few of the activities available. After a day of adventure, guests can unwind on one of the four panoramic terraces, savoring cuisine prepared on a Feuerring, the "Rolls Royce" of outdoor grills.
Chetzeron is a place where adventure meets luxury. It’s a place where you can feel on top of the world, surrounded by breathtaking beauty and unparalleled tranquility. The nightly rate starts at €600 for two people.
Forestis Villa: An Intimate Dolomite Sanctuary
Five years ago, Forestis opened in South Tyrol, quickly establishing itself as one of the most innovative and Instagrammable hotels in the Dolomites. Located at an altitude of 1,800 meters between Bressanone and the Plose ski area, Forestis pioneered a new way of life in the mountains.
Wellness at Forestis extends beyond the confines of the spa, healthy eating, and physical activity. It’s a philosophy that encompasses our relationship with nature, architecture, breath, and regeneration. The original hotel provided a haven for those seeking respite amidst forests, springs of rock water, and snow-capped peaks.
Recognizing a demand for even greater privacy and intimacy, Forestis created Forestis Villa. Under the guidance of Asaggio architects, the property’s historic Art Nouveau building has been transformed into a private mini-Forestis, encompassing 1,200 square meters.
The villa offers the same stunning views and exquisite design as the main hotel, but with an added layer of exclusivity. This sanctuary accommodates up to ten guests, with five bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, multiple living areas, a 400-square-meter spa, a garden, and a swimming pool.
A dedicated chef and butler are on hand to curate bespoke experiences for the villa’s residents, ensuring that every need is met with impeccable service.
Forestis Villa represents the ultimate in luxury and privacy. It’s a place where you can escape the world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites. The nightly rate starts at €20,000 for a maximum of ten people.
These three remarkable hotels – Eriro Alpine Hide, Chetzeron, and Forestis Villa – offer distinct and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Alps. Whether you seek Tyrolean charm, James Bond-esque seclusion, or Dolomite intimacy, these mountain retreats promise an escape to a world of unparalleled beauty, tranquility, and luxury. Each location provides a unique opportunity to disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with nature, creating lasting memories in some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
