Hotel Gruner Baum, Zell am See

Right in the centre of Zell am See, Hotel Gruner Baum is a cosy base with bags of character. You’re just under a 10 minutes’ walk from the gondola to the Schmittenhöhe slopes, with the ski school and nursery slopes at the base of the lift too. And when you’re not out carving turns, the hotel’s spa is a sweet little sanctuary – there’s a Finnish sauna, a gentler bio sauna, a Kneipp basin for a bit of water therapy, plus loungers and drinking fountains to help you cool off and zone out.

The building itself is a charming mix of old and new – think sage-green walls, dark wood trim and a warm, alpine feel throughout. Inside, it’s all rustic wood, soft lighting and natural tones, with rooms that range from classic and comfy to sleek and contemporary. Whether you’re in a snug space with traditional touches or a more modern room with charcoal greys and forest greens, it’s all about that relaxed, natural vibe.

Breakfast is a buffet spread with all the essentials – coffee, cereal, eggs, sausages, fruit and more. In the evening, it’s a five-course evening meal with table service, where you can pick from veggie, fish or meat options (the meat’s from the in-house butchers, no less). After that, wind down in the cosy little pub or head downstairs to the cocktail bar – it’s got a livelier vibe, with music and a bit more buzz if you’re in the mood.