Italy: The Dolomites & Austria: Zürs
In 2018 we combined the magnificent ski areas of the Dolomites in Italy and Zürs am Arlberg in Austria; whilst staying at two superb Leading Hotels of the World properties.
Named after the limestone rock that is found naturally in these spectacular mountains, the Dolomites ski region provided more than 1,200km of pistes ranging reaching as high as 3,269m. We had a great time exploring some of the best ski fields (and food) of the Dolomiti Superski, including Alta Badia, Val Gardena, Val di Fassa, San Pellegrino and Cinque Torri; always with the spectacular backdrop that comes with a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Following a great experience in 2017 we once again stayed at the beautiful Rosa Alpina run by the Pizzinini family since 1940 and enjoyed great hospitality and food. A definite highlight was dinner at the wonderful 3-star Michelin St Hubertus.
As the ‘main event’ we chose Zürs am Arlberg, one of the most exclusive winter resorts in Austria, in what is regarded as the snowiest area of the Alps.
With the opening of the Flexenbahn ski lift in 2016, all ski resorts in Arlberg are now linked to create the fifth-largest skiing region in the world; providing long extensive runs from St. Anton & St Christoph in Tyrol via Zürs & Lech to Warth & Schröcken in Voralberg.
We were incredibly fortunate with days of brilliant sunshine as well as the opportunity for areas of great untracked powder. With 87 lifts and over 200km of runs we had an extensive diversity in piste skiing together with the dramatic backdrop of the rugged mountains of the Arlberg.
Staying at the Thurnher’s Alpenhof, owned by the Thurnher family since 1964, provided convenient ski in/ski out connection to some of Austrias best pistes. The Alpenhof, being a 5 star Leading Hotels of the World property naturally combined great food with local charm and hospitality.
The 2018 tour provide us with excellent accommodation, some brilliant skiing and heaps of camaraderie and good fun.
