When it comes to the best luxury ski accommodation, ski chalets are often touted as the ideal intimate alternative to ski hotels, allowing for larger groups to socialise freely and cater for themselves (or have a private chef do so).
However, for those travelling as a couple, family or in a smaller group, the expansiveness of a traditional chalet may be unnecessary. The best ski apartments, lofts, cottages, and even treehouses offer the consummate traveller the best of both worlds, fusing the personality and self-sufficiency of a ski chalet with the privacy of a hotel while often representing a significantly more economical means of accommodation. Best suited for those who like to self-cater as well as groups or families in need of more flexible living arrangements, these are the best ski accommodations to book this ski season.
1. Mountain Lofts, Tschuggen Grand Hotel, Arosa, Switzerland
Offering the best of both worlds, Tschuggen Grand Hotel has recently opened one-, two-, and three-bedroom lofts which provide complete privacy without sacrificing access to the hotel’s five-star amenities (think a lavish four-floor spa and several restaurants and bars). Crafted from sustainable materials, each loft features a fully equipped kitchen and living area as well as private sauna and relaxation area. Guests are able to make use of the ski-in/ski-out facilities, not to mention complimentary access to the hotel’s Bergoase Spa and the private Tschuggen Express which provides direct access to some of Switzerland’s most beautiful scenery and makes for a convenient way to reach the slopes and the best hiking trails.
Price: approx. $1535AUD/night ($875CHF)
Location: Arosa, Switzerland
Sleeps: 2-6
2. Isolated Chalet, Zreče, Slovenske Konjice, Slovenia
The only property within a two kilometre radius, this is technically a chalet but intimate enough to make the cut. Situated within the Rogla ski resort, it makes for the perfect ski-in/ski-out base while also being surrounded by an abundance of hiking trails. The cosy chalet is located near the Terme Zreče Spa as well as the historical cities of Celje and Maribor.
Price: from $200AUD/night
Location: Zreče, Slovenske Konjice, Slovenia
Sleeps: 5
3. Studio Grace, Chamonix, France
With its abundance of black runs and off-piste opportunities, Chamonix is a mecca for advanced skiers and snowboarders. Sudio Grace acts as a cosy respite amongst the mountains; attached to a larger chalet, the one-bedroom apartment is entirely self-contained and acts as the base for a ski holiday. After you’re done enjoying the powder, head to the outdoor terrace for a soak in the sunken cedarwood jacuzzi which looks out over the famous Mont Blanc.
Price: approx. $282AUD/night
Location: Chamonix, France
Sleeps: 2
4. Tiny Home, Borée, France
Perhaps the most authentic way to see the French Alps, this quaint thatched cottage is nestled on the southern slopes of Mont Mézenc and located less than ten minutes from the ski resort of Les Estables. Ideally suited to those looking to disconnect, it boasts fairytale-like surrounds and modest but comfortable self-contained facilities.
Price: approx. $114AUD/night
Location: Borée, France
Sleeps: 3
5. Treehouse, Utsjoki, Finland
Treehouse, anyone? This architecturally sensitive wooden cabin is not only surrounded by cross-country skiing opportunities, but is privy to some of the best displays of the Northern Lights. Located within the Kaldoaivi Wilderness Area, it’s the only building for miles and is located 5 kilometres from the nearest road. However, its peaceful surroundings also mean it doesn’t have running water or regular electricity; however it does have an outhouse, wood-heated sauna for bathing, kitchenette with gas cooktop, and an electricity source allowing for lighting and charging devices. Water needs to be fetched from the nearby river.
Price: $437AUD/night
Location: Kaldoaivi Wilderness Area, Utsjoki, Finland
Sleeps: 4
6. Apartment, Bad Gastein, Austria
Situated in the heart of Bad Gastein, close to the beautiful Gasteiner Wasserfall, this recently refurbished two-bedroom apartment sits at the intersection of city and nature. It’s a short hop away from the local ski spots, while the ski and spa town of Bad Gastein is home to some of the most stunning traditional architecture. Guests can make use of the fully equipped kitchen as well as two dedicated free parking spots.
Price: approx. $384AUD/night
Location: Bad Gastein, Austria
Sleeps: 4
7. Cabin, Apuseni Mountains, Mătișești, Romania
Nestled in the heart of the Apuseni Mountains, this cabin has room to sleep four (plus two children). Located high above sea level, it boasts panoramic views of the mountains and complex complete with an outdoor retreat and wood-fired hot tub.
Price: approx. $431AUD/night
Location: Apuseni Mountains, Mătișești, Romania
Sleeps: 4-6
8. Luxury Apartment, Penningberg, Tyrol, Austria
This contemporary minimalist apartment lets its natural materials and expansive alpine views do the talking. Well-suited for larger groups, it comfortably sleeps eight people and is located amongst the majestic Tyrolean mountains. Many hikes start at the front door, while the Kitzbühel Alps allow for endless cross-country skiing opportunities.
Price: approx. $832AUD/night
Location: Penningberg, Tyrol, Austria
Sleeps: 8-10
Cover image courtesy of Chymo More
Words by Theo Rosen
