Luxe Beat Magazine DECEMBER 2014 | Page 16

that dates to the 14th century, when a kind-hearted shepherd named Heinrich Findelkind founded the hospice as a place for weary travelers crossing the Austrian Alps. Now a five-star hotel, the Arlberg Hospiz is still a welcoming and comfortable place for guests. With its traditional Austrian feel, the hotel also has a large spa, four gourmet restaurants and remarkable wine cellars, one of which dates to 1386, known as the Brotherhood’s Cellar. To say that the hotel owner, Adi Werner, is fond of fine wines would be an understatement. The neighboring Hospiz Alm Chalet is also home to the world’s biggest collection of special large wine bottles, many of which come from the famed French wine growing regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy. to a 14th century hospice, built as shelter for travelers crossing the Arlberg. True to its origins, it’s now home to a five-star hotel, offering fine cuisine and an internationally acclaimed wine cellar, as well as a training center for elite skiers. At first glance, Zürs appears to be an unassuming place. However, it’s the village of choice for some of Europe’s royal families, which brings slopes, this minute car-free village is surprisingly lively, thanks to the number of hotels and restaurants. Lech Zürs and St. Anton are winter sports enthusiasts’ dream, but that’s not all. Their resorts and villages are also ideal destinations for spa, wine and culinary connoisseurs. with it a certain level of sophistication. Luxury hotels, stylish bars and hailed restaurants provide an exclamation point to the day’s activities on the slopes. Perched at nearly 4,800 feet, Lech sits in a high valley very close to Zürs. Known for its gastronomic prowess, Lech is a prime destination for epicureans. A short cable car ride away is Oberlech. Directly on the Experience in St. Christoph Arlberg Hospiz Hotel has a legacy 16 Austrian Hospiz Gallery is an unexpected find inside of the Arlberg Hospiz Hotel. Home to varied contemporary art exhibits, the gallery is the brainchild of Florian Werner, artist and son of Adi Werner, owner of the Arlberg Hospiz. The “Artists in Residence” program gives contemporary artists a place to live and work, with their creations later displayed in the gallery. Hospiz Alm Chalet is located directly on the ski piste and is an excellent place for lunch while skiing St. Anton. It’s not your typical resort restaurant; Hospiz Alm Chalet’s menu is gourmet and features the extensive wine list found at the Arlberg Hospiz Hotel. Inside, the restaurant is warm and rustic.