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Graziadaily
2 days ago
- Health
- Graziadaily
The Absolute Best Ski And Spa Hotels In Austria
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie who races down the slopes or peepers to take the piste at your own pace (or, if you just like going along for the apes) there's nothing like a good ski holiday. And while the alps have traditionally been the destination of choice for UK skiers, the magic, quintessential charm of Austria shouldn't be missed. Given around 60% of Austria is covered in mountains, it's a skier's paradise. Choose from a number of top resorts, including Ski Arlberg, SkiWelt, Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Ischgl and Kitzbühel, which cater to a range of skiiers. Of course, part of enjoyment of skiing is also the downtime - and that's when a good spa is essential. Nothing soothes tired muscles quite like kicking back in an infinity pool or unwinding in a sauna with panoramic views of the mountains. With so many hotels and resorts to choose from in Austria, we've done all the hard work for you by whittling it down to our five favourites that promise total relaxation of the mind and body. Read on for our guide to the absolute best ski and spa hotels... Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to live in The Sound Of Music? Well, a stay at Priesteregg Premium Eco Resort will take you pretty close. Nestled in the beautiful backdrop of the Leogang mountains, this beautiful collection of 15 chalets and three exclusive villas is an Alpine paradise. Rustic and cosy but with modern touches, each accommodation includes a living area with a fireplace, a kitchen, two bedrooms, a Finnish sauna, a hot tub, a small breakfast terrace, and a private terrace with an alpine swing and sun loungers for relaxation. Breakfast is delivered to your chalet each morning, and for dinner the only place you need to head down to Huwi's Alm restaurant, which showcases an impressive range of regional cuisine in a rustic atmosphere with an extensive terrace. Taking centre stage at Priesteregg is the resort's impressive spa. At the centre is a 25-metre heated infinity pool, with looks over the beautiful scenery. Take your pick from multiple saunas (once you've tried out the one in your chalet, of course), or unwind with a heavenly treatment in one of the spa's relaxation rooms. The bold and brave can try their hand at a cold plunge. And with classes such as yoga, breathwork and Nuad Thai on offer throughout the day, you will be sure to leave calm, zen and ready to take on what life has to offer. To take things up a notch, yogis can head to the nine yoga platforms in the forest at an altitude of 1,100 metres, offering breathtaking views and plenty of fresh mountain air. Nature is at the heart of everything Priesteregg does. The resort places a huge focus on the environment, from using sustainable building materials to renewable energy and meat from the farm's own Galloway cattle. If weather allows, make sure to take one of the guided hikes on offer through the beautiful Leogang mountains, which is the perfect way to reset your mind and body. Of course, it's excellent for skiers, too. Hop on the free ski shuttle to the slopes at scheduled times, and enjoy incredible skiing across Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. When it's time for a break, soak up the atmosphere (and an Aperol Spritz) at the ski restaurant Mountain Club Hendl Fischerel, which has some of the best vibes on the slopes. With so much on offer at Priesteregg, you will be sure to leave relaxed, balanced and happy. Oh, and ready to book your next trip there almost immediately. Prices from €340 BB per person per night in a Berg Mountain Chalet (based on 2 sharing) Meet your new favourite ski hotel. Nestled deep in the mountains, WIESERGUT is heaven for ski-lovers. Surrounded by the slopes of the Pinzgauer Grasberge as well as the breathtaking peaks of the Kitzbühel Alps and the Hohe Tauern, the hotel is centred around a love for nature and beautiful architecture. The interiors at WIESERGUT are a work of art, and are all about showcasing relaxed luxury. Around every corner, you will find beautiful wood, natural stone, granite, glass, and exposed concrete. This is continued in the 24 room suites, which offer a minimalist take on traditional alpine aesthetic. For those who want something extra, WIESERGUT has four exclusive Garden Suites and three Hideaway Suites, which showcase breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The rooms are complete with a raw steel fireplace, a freestanding bathtub with a view of the starry sky, and a hot tub filled with warm spring water on the private sun terrace. Of course, skiing is the highlight here, with the hotel offering luxurious ski in/ski out access to the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn - known in winter as one of the largest and most modern ski resorts in the Alps. In summer, it's the perfect spot for hikers who want to enjoy the beauty of the mountains in warmer climates. After a day on the slopes, you can head to the Badhaus spa to unwind. Set over three levels, this impressive spa offering includes two massage rooms, a beauty room, a pine sauna, a steam and ice bath, a panoramic relaxation room, and a tea lounge with an open fire and views of the Glemmtal mountain landscape. Downstairs, you will find the heated indoor and outdoor pool, filled with water from the hotel's own spring. There is also an impressive gym featuring state-of-the-art training and cardio equipment, so you can keep on top of your fitness. When it comes to food to fuel your activities, you're spoilt for choice. WIESERGUT primarily uses products from the family-run farm and the local region (a special shout out for their delicious handmade cheese). When you're on the slopes, make sure you don't miss out on WIESERALM, the mountain top restaurant located 1,500 metres up. Prices from €381 BB per room per night in a ManorSuite Bliss For people who can't get enough of the mountains, look no further than Mama Thresl - a family-run hotel that is an activity-lover's paradise. The hotel's motto in the winter is 'from bed to the slopes', thanks to how well connected it is to the Ski Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn - one of the largest interconnected ski areas in Austria. In the summer months, Leogang is a paradise for bikers of all ages, also known as the host of the UCI Mountainbike World Championships. You can also enjoy stunning hikes in the breathtaking scenery. Guests can choose from 51 rooms in seven different categories, with the higher-priced suites feature freestanding bathtubs, private saunas, or private hot tubs on spacious rooftop terrace. On the top floor, you can unwind against the backdrop of beautiful views in the wellness area complete with a panoramic Finnish sauna. Or, cosy up with a good book in one of the wellness rooms lounge alcoves. The beauty of Mama Thresl is in its warm and friendly feel. Most of the activity takes place in the spacious and open bar and restaurant area, designed with pine alcoves, rustic folding tables, and a continuous chopped pine wall with an open fireplace. After you've enjoyed some delicious food (and a cocktail or two) you will be treated to a DJ Thursday through to Saturday. Ski, sauna, and dancing? Name a better trio... Prices from €196 BB per room for 2 people in a Woodenstyle double room ©DAS EDELWEISS Salzburg Mountain Resort Situated directly on the slopes, DAS EDELWEISS is perfect for those who want convenience from their holiday. The hotel offers ski in/ski out access to the Grossarl mountains, and has its own ski depot at the panorama lift. In summer, the rolling mountains provide the perfect escape to reconnect with nature, with numerous idyllic hiking trails and 40 traditionally managed alpine pastures on offer. The mountain spa at DAS EDELWEISS is second to none. Relax in the infinity pool and soak up the breathtaking mountain views, before heading to the panoramic sauna - the perfect space to unwind after a jam-packed day. Or spoil yourself with a luxurious treatment at the Beauty Mountain Spa, for the ultimate post-ski relaxation. ©DAS EDELWEISS Salzburg Mountain Resort And there's no need to leave kids out of the fun, either. Keep your children amused with the indoor water slide park, which features five slides over three floors. There's also a child's club and kids care on offer, for when you need a bit of me time. In the evening, unwind with delicious food at EDELWEISS Mountain Cuisine. The award-winning Sirloin Grill & Dine steak restaurant, the in-house sushi bar and the Sakura Asian cuisine line has plenty of indulgent offerings to refuel you before the next day's skiing. Prices from €644.70 per room Situated an hour from Salzburg, Naturhotel Forsthofgut is the perfect place to soak up the beauty of the Leogang mountains. A former forestry, this breathtaking nature retreat offers 112 guest rooms, including spacious Garden Loft and Mountain Loft Suites. All the rooms are furnished in natural colours to inspire true relaxation, and some come kitted out with wood-burning fireplaces. Everything is thought of here right down to the details - enjoy freshly-baked Gugelhupf (local cake) in your room on arrival, and a yoga mat and a backpack for use during your stay. Outdoor activities here include the best of what Austria has to offer - cycling, hiking, lake swimming, riding and, of course, skiing during the winter months. Wellbeing is high on the agenda at Naturhotel Forsthofgut, so when it's time to pamper yourself head to the forest-themed waldSPA. Here, you will find a natural chemical-free swimming lake with an infinity pool, Onsen bathing and plenty of treatments on offer. There's also a separate family spa with a 70m slide and aqua play zone. When it comes to food, you're spoilt for choice. Guests can pick from three à la carte restaurants, including one Japanese, as well as Alpine-Mediterranean and creative vegan options on the half-board menu. All these restaurants use fresh produce from the hotel's Mauthof farm. Prepare to leave Naturhotel Forsthofgut feeling healthy, energised and revived. Prices from €482.94 per night in low season and £846.91 per night in high season. For those seeking a luxurious holiday in the Soelden region of Austria, look no further than spa hotel Das Central. The hotel, situated one and a half hours from Innsbruck, has a total of 121 rooms to suit a number of price ranges, with each accommodation blending a signature mix of traditional Austrian charm with modern elegance. The location of the hotel makes it a no-brainer for skiers - Das Central is just 500 metres away from the main ski lift with a private shuttle service available right to the lifts. When it's time for a recharge, the 2,000 square metres venetian spa at Das Central is the perfect place to recharge. Containing ten saunas, a 17 metre long summit infinity pool, steam rooms, relaxation rooms and cardio fitness studios, there's something for everyone in the spa's extensive offering. One particular highlight of Das Central is the food. The hotel has an à la carte restaurant Ötztaler Stube, run by chef Michael Kofler who has a Michelin star to his name, so it's the go-to spot if you're celebrating or wanting to treat yourself. For the ultimate alpine dining experience, head to the wine cellar for one of the hotel's signature fondue nights, where you can dine surrounded by an impressive 30,000 bottles. Prepare to be blown away. Prices from €620 a night.
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Yahoo
This prison in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is the best place to get a massage
After passing by golden temples and crossing the gates into the Old Town, I hand my helmet back to my driver and check in for my massage appointment. As I sip on my iced coffee in the shade, I'm grateful for the mist from the courtyard's waterfall, and the restaurant's mango sticky rice has left a sweet taste in my mouth. It feels like a normal morning in Chiang Mai until I spot the warden's uniform. That's when I remember that I am sitting in the middle of a prison. When it's time for my massage, I am led into a dim room full of beds. Like many vocational schools in Thailand, no one is given a private room and everyone is clothed. They give me a locker to put my phone, wallet, and other valuables in—along with a key to hold onto. My masseuse is kind and quiet except when she whispers to make sure that the pressure of the massage is okay. I surrender to the flow of the massage, and easily forget that I am in a big room—part of the prison. The experience is relaxing and luxurious, but it is even more rewarding to learn that this exceptional service offers a unique way support incarcerated women in Thailand. Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center is a women's prison that offers a Thai massage and spa training program. his vocational program, also called Naree Spa, allows non-violent prisoners to receive massage training, and each treatment helps women earn their certification as traditional Thai massage therapists. Prisoners live in a different part of the city but are transported in every day with wardens and other officials to do their training. Today, travelers can also enjoy the restaurant, boutique, and beauty salons—all of which hire prisoners and allow them to get hands-on work experience. For those who are curious to learn more and are desperate for air conditioning, there is also a museum with information about the program on site. (Related: 6 ways to explore Chiang Mai through its burgeoning craft scene, from ceramics to silver jewelery.) Nuad Thai, or Thai massage, is incredibly important to the country's traditions and history, which is why it has earned UNESCO recognition on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In traditional Thai villages, those who practiced Thai massage were seen as healers, which is why spa certification, in the form of certificates, is still regulated by the Thai Ministry of Public Health. The standard curriculum for those looking to practice Thai massage is an 800-hour course that has to take place over more than two years. Like all massage students in Thailand, prisoners at the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center must learn philosophy, anatomy, and other physiology courses. They must also do 300 hours of professional experience training, which is where massages like mine come into play. This makes these women true experts of their craft and incredibly knowledgeable of the human body. During my massage, my masseuse could tell something was wrong with me after briefly touching a small muscle on my ankle. After just a moment, she knew I was walking too much and advised me to stretch the muscle and rest it when I could. Receiving spa certificates are a bright light in the otherwise dark reality of female incarceration in Thailand. According to the latest comparative statistics published by the Institute for Crime & Justice Policy Research, Thailand has the world's second highest incarceration rate of women. Andrea Giorgetta, the Asia Desk Director at the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) says, 'Women in Thailand tend to encounter greater difficulties and discrimination than men within the legal system due to a combination of factors, including poverty, a lack of legal knowledge, and inadequate legal assistance.' These social and economic factors result in women receiving longer sentences that are disproportionate to their offenses—especially when you consider women's caregiving obligations or the role of abuse and coercion. After serving their time in prison, women may face difficulties when it comes to finding jobs, which is why reoffending rates for women are between 14 percent (who are detained a second time) and 20 percent (who are detained up to a fifth time). (Related: Some of the best cheese in the world is in Thailand—here's where to try it.) Luckily for the women of Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center—they are not alone. Thunyanun Yajom worked in the prison as an officer for more than 15 years before opening the Dignity Network, a certified massage center for vocational graduates from the women's prison. Each of the masseuses have gone through the programs outlined by the Thai Ministry of Public Health, but they still faced prejudice when attempting to find jobs. Yajom says that before her spa, 'It was not easy for my ladies to find jobs after getting out of prison … if some places know you are ex-prisoners, they will leave you out of a job. Nobody cared about them.' In 2014, she opened her first center with only three ex-prisoners, and it quickly became internationally appreciated by tourists and locals alike. Since then, they have expanded into five massage centers around Chiang Mai, and they have given more than 500 ex-prisoners jobs over the past decade. This steady employment gives women the chance to be financially independent, provide for their families, and give back to their communities. Yajom says, 'We work together like family. When customers come into my shop, they feel the same because we take very good care of them.' There are thousands of spas in Thailand, but the Dignity Network centers and the women's prison give travelers the chance to make their massages something more. These treatments provide an opportunity to play a small role in a much bigger movement towards women's liberation and independence in Thailand. (Related: UNESCO recognizes more than just historical sites—here are 5 protected health customs.) The Women's Correctional Center is located in Chiang Mai's old town (on Ratvithi Road in the Mueang Chiang Mai District) and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the weekends. In order to get a massage, visitors must make a same-day appointment in person. Visitors should get there as early as possible because their appointments tend to book up quickly. The spa is occasionally closed for holidays, so be sure to check their Facebook page for any announcements. Anyone is welcome to get a massage, but they ask you to indicate if you have heart problems, allergies, or any other conditions they should know about. They offer one-hour traditional Thai massages (250 Baht/about $7.36), two-hour Thai massages (500 Baht/$14.73), and one-hour foot massages (250 Baht/about $7.36). For your massage, visitors should wear loose clothing that they can easily move around in. As mentioned before, there are five Dignity Network centers around Chiang Mai, and it's usually easier to get appointments at these spas. Each location has different hours that you can find on their website. As with most Thai spas, reservations are made in person, and they can accommodate guests fairly quickly. (Related: How to plan a food tour around northern Thailand, from Chiang Mai to Phrae.) Acacia Gabriel is a freelance journalist who covers responsible ecotourism, cultural experiences, and the intersection of outdoor adventure and luxury. Follow along on her website and Instagram.
National Geographic
03-04-2025
- National Geographic
This prison in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is the best place to get a massage
After passing by golden temples and crossing the gates into the Old Town, I hand my helmet back to my driver and check in for my massage appointment. As I sip on my iced coffee in the shade, I'm grateful for the mist from the courtyard's waterfall, and the restaurant's mango sticky rice has left a sweet taste in my mouth. It feels like a normal morning in Chiang Mai until I spot the warden's uniform. That's when I remember that I am sitting in the middle of a prison. When it's time for my massage, I am led into a dim room full of beds. Like many vocational schools in Thailand, no one is given a private room and everyone is clothed. They give me a locker to put my phone, wallet, and other valuables in—along with a key to hold onto. My masseuse is kind and quiet except when she whispers to make sure that the pressure of the massage is okay. I surrender to the flow of the massage, and easily forget that I am in a big room—part of the prison. The experience is relaxing and luxurious, but it is even more rewarding to learn that this exceptional service offers a unique way support incarcerated women in Thailand. Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center is a women's prison that offers a Thai massage and spa training program. his vocational program, also called Naree Spa, allows non-violent prisoners to receive massage training, and each treatment helps women earn their certification as traditional Thai massage therapists. Prisoners live in a different part of the city but are transported in every day with wardens and other officials to do their training. Today, travelers can also enjoy the restaurant, boutique, and beauty salons—all of which hire prisoners and allow them to get hands-on work experience. For those who are curious to learn more and are desperate for air conditioning, there is also a museum with information about the program on site. (Related: 6 ways to explore Chiang Mai through its burgeoning craft scene, from ceramics to silver jewelery.) Historical importance of the traditional Thai massage Nuad Thai, or Thai massage, is incredibly important to the country's traditions and history, which is why it has earned UNESCO recognition on the Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In traditional Thai villages, those who practiced Thai massage were seen as healers, which is why spa certification, in the form of certificates, is still regulated by the Thai Ministry of Public Health. The standard curriculum for those looking to practice Thai massage is an 800-hour course that has to take place over more than two years. Like all massage students in Thailand, prisoners at the Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center must learn philosophy, anatomy, and other physiology courses. They must also do 300 hours of professional experience training, which is where massages like mine come into play. This makes these women true experts of their craft and incredibly knowledgeable of the human body. During my massage, my masseuse could tell something was wrong with me after briefly touching a small muscle on my ankle. After just a moment, she knew I was walking too much and advised me to stretch the muscle and rest it when I could. Vocational massage training used to change women's lives Receiving spa certificates are a bright light in the otherwise dark reality of female incarceration in Thailand. According to the latest comparative statistics published by the Institute for Crime & Justice Policy Research, Thailand has the world's second highest incarceration rate of women. Andrea Giorgetta, the Asia Desk Director at the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) says, 'Women in Thailand tend to encounter greater difficulties and discrimination than men within the legal system due to a combination of factors, including poverty, a lack of legal knowledge, and inadequate legal assistance.' These social and economic factors result in women receiving longer sentences that are disproportionate to their offenses—especially when you consider women's caregiving obligations or the role of abuse and coercion. After serving their time in prison, women may face difficulties when it comes to finding jobs, which is why reoffending rates for women are between 14 percent (who are detained a second time) and 20 percent (who are detained up to a fifth time). (Related: Some of the best cheese in the world is in Thailand—here's where to try it.) Massage centers offer ex-prisoners hope and dignity Luckily for the women of Chiang Mai Women's Correctional Center—they are not alone. Thunyanun Yajom worked in the prison as an officer for more than 15 years before opening the Dignity Network, a certified massage center for vocational graduates from the women's prison. Each of the masseuses have gone through the programs outlined by the Thai Ministry of Public Health, but they still faced prejudice when attempting to find jobs. Yajom says that before her spa, 'It was not easy for my ladies to find jobs after getting out of prison … if some places know you are ex-prisoners, they will leave you out of a job. Nobody cared about them.' In 2014, she opened her first center with only three ex-prisoners, and it quickly became internationally appreciated by tourists and locals alike. Since then, they have expanded into five massage centers around Chiang Mai, and they have given more than 500 ex-prisoners jobs over the past decade. This steady employment gives women the chance to be financially independent, provide for their families, and give back to their communities. Yajom says, 'We work together like family. When customers come into my shop, they feel the same because we take very good care of them.' There are thousands of spas in Thailand, but the Dignity Network centers and the women's prison give travelers the chance to make their massages something more. These treatments provide an opportunity to play a small role in a much bigger movement towards women's liberation and independence in Thailand. (Related: UNESCO recognizes more than just historical sites—here are 5 protected health customs.) How to get the best massage in Thailand The Women's Correctional Center is located in Chiang Mai's old town (on Ratvithi Road in the Mueang Chiang Mai District) and is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the weekends. In order to get a massage, visitors must make a same-day appointment in person. Visitors should get there as early as possible because their appointments tend to book up quickly. The spa is occasionally closed for holidays, so be sure to check their Facebook page for any announcements. Anyone is welcome to get a massage, but they ask you to indicate if you have heart problems, allergies, or any other conditions they should know about. They offer one-hour traditional Thai massages (250 Baht/about $7.36), two-hour Thai massages (500 Baht/$14.73), and one-hour foot massages (250 Baht/about $7.36). For your massage, visitors should wear loose clothing that they can easily move around in. As mentioned before, there are five Dignity Network centers around Chiang Mai, and it's usually easier to get appointments at these spas. Each location has different hours that you can find on their website. As with most Thai spas, reservations are made in person, and they can accommodate guests fairly quickly. (Related: How to plan a food tour around northern Thailand, from Chiang Mai to Phrae.)
