Text By Sarah-Eve Leduc
Stepping out of a sleek black car into the crisp alpine air of Ischgl, your eyes trace the jagged peaks dusted with snow under a cerulean sky. A warm smile greets you at the entrance of the Elizabeth Arthotel, where modern lines and rich wood tones blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the Austrian Alps. The doors open to reveal not just a hotel but a realm where every detail—every brushstroke on the walls and every gesture of the staff—is a celebration of art and hospitality.
At the heart of this snowy haven is the Elizabeth Arthotel, a five-star retreat that transcends the traditional hotel experience.
A Contemporary Alpine Icon
Located at the heart of Ischgl, this five-star ski-in/ski-out retreat has been an emblem of sophistication since its founding in 1976 by the Aloys family. With 39 meticulously designed rooms and suites offering panoramic views of the Alps, the hotel masterfully balances sleek modernity with alpine charm. Each space is adorned with art from celebrated European artists, making every corner of the hotel a visual delight. From the bold works of Herbert Brandl to the dynamic pieces by Leon Löwentraut, the Elizabeth Arthotel is both a sanctuary and a gallery, where art and hospitality merge seamlessly.
Immersive Wellness in the Clouds
The seventh-floor rooftop spa elevates relaxation to an art form. Enveloped by floor-to-ceiling glass, the infinity pool offers breathtaking views of snow-covered slopes, while Finnish and organic saunas provide a restorative retreat. Here, the natural splendor of the Alps becomes an integral part of the wellness experience.
After a beautiful experience at the spa, your suite awaits. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame a landscape that seems almost surreal, the peaks so close you can imagine reaching out to touch them. Inside, the décor is a study in refinement— You can’t help but linger for a moment, letting the tranquility of the space wash over you.
But the allure of the slopes is irresistible. Just outside the hotel, Ischgl’s snow-sure trails beckon. The Elizabeth Arthotel’s ski-in/ski-out access makes the transition from luxury to adventure seamless. There’s no need to fuss over equipment; the in-house ski service ensures that every detail is handled with precision. Your skis are waxed and waiting, the mountain is calling, and the day is yours.
Gliding down the immaculate runs, you understand why Ischgl is consistently ranked among the world’s top ski destinations. The variety is exhilarating—gentle trails for soaking in the scenery, adrenaline-pumping black runs, and even cross-border routes into Switzerland. By midday, the sun casts a golden glow over the slopes, and you find yourself pausing at a mountain hut for a plate of Käsespätzle, its creamy richness the perfect fuel for the rest of the afternoon.
Après-ski enthusiasts will find their haven at the hotel’s lively Schatzi Bar. The vibrant nightlife of Ischgl, often likened to the energy of Ibiza, has earned the town global accolades, including its ranking as the third-best après-ski destination by Forbes in 2024.
If the lively energy of the bar isn’t what you seek, serenity awaits elsewhere. As the sun dips behind the peaks, you return to the Elizabeth, where the day’s adventures transition into evening indulgence. The infinity pool seems to spill into the horizon, its warm waters a soothing contrast to the cool alpine air. You float for a while, watching the sky turn shades of pink and orange, the majesty of the mountains mirrored in the stillness of the pool.
Dinner at the Elizabeth is a highlight you’ll savor long after your stay. Under the guidance of Austrian Head Chef Thomas Zechner, the restaurant offers a six-course culinary symphony that celebrates local flavors. Each dish is a masterpiece, from the delicate wild mushroom consommé to the perfectly seared venison medallions, paired with wines selected from one of the region’s finest collections. The sommelier’s insights elevate the experience further, weaving stories of terroir and tradition into every sip.
The days unfold like this—a rhythm of adventure and indulgence, art and nature, where each moment feels like a chapter in a story you’ll cherish forever. Perhaps you’ll explore the town’s boutiques, or maybe you’ll linger in the hotel’s art-filled lobby, discovering new favorites among its 130 curated works. You might even time your visit with a special exhibition, as the Elizabeth frequently collaborates with leading artists to bring fresh perspectives to its collection.
The Heart of the Elizabeth Experience
For Mirjam Aloys, Director of the Elizabeth Arthotel, the hotel is more than a luxurious escape—it’s a family legacy. “My grandfather, Erwin Aloys, laid the foundation for Ischgl as a premier ski resort in 1963. Since then, our family has been dedicated to welcoming guests into what we see as our extended ‘Elizabeth Family.’ This concept reflects not just our guests but also our team and the Ischgl community, all of whom contribute to the warmth and authenticity of the Elizabeth experience.”
Since its transformation into a five-star property in 2011 and the subsequent 2017 renovation of its spa and facade, the Elizabeth Arthotel has consistently redefined luxury in the Alps. Today, under the stewardship of Mirjam Aloys and her husband Markus, the hotel continues to innovate while staying true to its roots. Whether through its curated art exhibitions, personalized service, or exceptional alpine offerings, the Elizabeth remains a testament to the family’s commitment to excellence.
Elevate Your Winter
As the 2024/25 season approaches, the Elizabeth Arthotel invites you to experience the art of alpine living. With its unique blend of culture, cuisine, and adventure, this Ischgl icon promises an unforgettable escape. Whether carving through fresh powder, soaking in the rooftop spa, or savoring world-class cuisine, every moment at the Elizabeth is designed to inspire.
This winter, let the slopes and sophistication of Ischgl sweep you away. The Elizabeth Arthotel awaits.
