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Welcome to the Alps! It’s transforming mountain retreats into chic contemporary resorts, and breathing new life into historic locations with stylish modern ski accommodations.
Released December 3, 2023
5 minutes checked out
This short article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Every year, as winter settles in and snowflakes start to fall in the Alps, visitors are welcomed with a host of innovative new hotels. This season, luxury brands like COMO Hotels and Resorts are bringing their beachfront sensibilities to the Italian Alps with COMO Alpina Dolomitesand Grace Hotels is opening St Moritz’s first luxury hotel in fifty years with the Grace La Margna. These boutique contemporary additions breathe new life into historic graceful icons of the region. Let’s take a look at the six best new openings that are revitalizing former hotel landmarks.
1. 6 SensesCrans-Montana
As part of the luxury spa hotel chain, this Swiss opening is Six Senses’ first in the country. Set on forested slopes above the Cry d’Er gondola, its 78 rooms feature large balconies with locally sourced materials, spacious beds, and freestanding baths. The indoor pool has a suspended ceiling of timber stakes reaching down towards the water. A heated outdoor infinity pool, surrounded by a greenhouse filled with trees with a suspension bridge through the treetops, provides the ultimate relaxation spot. The ‘Wild Cabin’ brasserie offers modern Swiss cuisine, while ‘Byakko’ serves food influenced by the Japanese Alps. Doubles from EUR788 (£ 679), B&B.
2. 7 AlpinaKlosters
In December, the Alpina, located in the heart of the Swiss town, is reopening as part of the boutique Seven group. The traditional chalet-style building, opposite the main ski station, has been reimagined and its 52 rooms are adorned with modern hotel design. The spa and pool have been renovated, the lounge features an open fire, and there are two restaurants, a bar, and an apres-ski balcony. Doubles from EUR280 (£ 250), B&B.
3. Voulez VousVal Thorens
The luxurious Koh-l Nor hotel, situated in the Trois Vallées, has been reborn as Voulez Vous by the Les Etincelles group. The renovation brings new restaurants, including Il Savoia, an Italian-Savoyard fusion. Cocktail and dance nights are guaranteed, and it’s still ski in, ski out, set on the central Plein Sud slope. Doubles from EUR256 (£ 220) B&B (minimum stay 3 nights).
3. HENRI Country HouseKitzbühel
The latest from the German brand is a cozy classic chalet with a modern edge.
