Like the perfect martini, Miramonte is sharp and chilled, with a dash of 60s glam. Viennese architect Ike Ikrath has shaken up a traditional chalet hotel and stirred in modernist details with flair: designer chairs with sheepskin rugs in the restaurant; futuristic steel tables in the bar; avant-garde art on the walls. The 36 rooms are scrubbed and simple, film-set chic, and the overall style is nostalgic, its relaxed vibe aimed at boho, sporty grown-ups.
During the day, there's superb Alpine skiing or hiking and biking, depending on the season. Late afternoon might mean a snooze on the sunny terrace overlooking the mountains or a soak in the Aveda spa’s thermal baths. Evening meals are friendly, with delicious dishes and wine consumed at communal tables if you book half board. Later, couples mingle by the fire pit while amiable hip staff serve up gin cocktails and mellow music. Our visit was fun but fleeting, and we can't wait to re-join Austria’s artists, actors and creative set who have claimed Miramonte as their own.
Highs
- Revitalising valley views; book a Panorama Room with a balcony for extra wow
- We loved the cool vibe and grown-up atmosphere: adventurous couples will be in their element
- Bad Gastein’s famous hot spring bubbles right into the hotel – spa baths in radon-enhanced waters are both soothing and rejuvenating
- The hotel can help with ski and bike hire, and has its own ski storage and heated boot-drying racks
- Lots of extras are included in the rates: shuttles to the station & slopes, afternoon tea, open-air movie nights, coffee and pastries, DJs and live music nights
Lows
- The drive here can be tricky and there's limited on-street parallel parking (fun in the snow!). You're best off getting a transfer
- No twin rooms
- Meals at communal tables may not suit romance-seeking couples, but this is entirely optional
- Traditional saunas are shared with both genders and taken in the nude. Not necessarily a low but something to be aware of!
Best time to go
For skiers and winter sports buffs, December to March is best for snow. Hiking is best from June to October, although July and August can be hot with thunderstorms. The hotel closes twice annually: approx late April-end May and early Nov-early Dec.
Our top tips
Head to stunning Sportgastein for all your outdoor pursuits. This is the town's premier resort area, where every imaginable mountain sport is on offer. Come in the summer and you may even stumble upon a folk festival in the Nassfeld hills
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
Fabulous location with fantastic views. A very relaxed and friendly vibe and all staff were very helpful. We particularly liked the fact that breakfast and evening meals were a leisurely affair. Access to skiing and walking treks are all nearby and easy to get to. We look forward to a return visit soon. Our only disappointment on this holiday was that shuttle transfers no longer operate from Salzburg to Bad Gastein so we were forced into an expensive private transfer.
Service at dinner was a little patchy/slow. And one of the receptionists was new and information was lacking. Although these are minor niggles. Overall we loved the hotel!
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape