The Crystal VAYA Unique, Obergurgl, Austria

· ski-in, ski-out on a a blue or red piste · opposite the Festkogel gondola · ski bus stop outside · 6 minutes' walk to the village centre · 4 minutes' walk to the ski school meeting point

The Crystal VAYA does a brilliant job of retaining the ethos of excellent, friendly and welcoming Austrian hospitality in a refreshingly modern environment. The cosmopolitan styling in public areas really stands out and helps make this place outstanding. And the up-to-date design isn’t just on the surface – this place has serious ecological credentials, utilising 100% renewable energy.

Attention to detail is what it’s all about here. From the sleek combination of wood, glass and stone, to clever lighting and a beautiful palette of warming colours, we keep that sense of elegance flowing throughout. The rooms are not as modern, but are equally as comfortable and spacious with all mod-cons you’d expect.

The wellness area is a real treat for the senses. Tired skiers can re-energise in the saunas and steam baths, followed by a breath of fresh air on the spa terrace, before diving into the outdoor pool with views of the Ötztal mountains. The private spa suite is perfect for personal pampering time, either alone or with your partner – and there’s a massage and treatment menu to complement the peaceful surroundings.

The position couldn’t be much better either – walk out of the excellent ski room and virtually straight onto the Festkogel gondola for easy access to Obergurgl’s slopes. Plus you can ski virtually back to the door via either a blue or red run, depending on your ability.

Unsurprisingly, with a hotel this fine, the food is a big part of the experience. The culinary team select the best ingredients to create delicious cuisine – with a menu changing daily. The head chef sources ingredients from the local area to really make every mealtime a joy.

· 2000m²two-storey spa with heated outdoor pool, indoor pool and textile sauna (swimsuits permitted) plus adults-only (aged 15+) spa with indoor relaxation pool, outdoor Finnish sauna, bio sauna, aromatic steam bath, brine steam bath, herbal bath, infrared cabin, adventure showers, ice fountain and relaxation area with waterbeds and open fireplace · extra charge for private spa suite with Finnish sauna, bio sauna, steam bath and relaxation area · extra charge for treatments and massages · fitness centre · The restaurant · bar and lounge · wine lounge · extra charge for weekly wine tasting · Salz & Pfeffer à la carte restaurant · games room with Playstation 3, pool table, table tennis, table football, darts and group games · kids’ playroom · free WiFi throughout · lift to all floors

All rooms have a hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, cable TV and safe.

Twin room (approx. 35m ²) - sleeps 2-3: (max 2 adults or 2 adults and 1 child up to 11 years): Austrian twin beds, extra single sofa bed when booked for three, private bath, WC and balcony.

Deluxe twin room (approx. 45m²) - sleeps 2-4 (max 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children up to 11 years): Austrian twin beds, extra double sofa bed when booked for three or four, private bath, private shower, WC and balcony.

Austrian twin beds: One large bed frame containing two single mattresses, each with their own bedding.

Please note: Rooms next door to each other may be available on request. Rooms must be the same type and cannot be guaranteed. All rooms are in the original west wing building.

Half Board

· welcome drink · hot and cold buffet breakfast · 4-course buffet-style evening meal with a choice of main course, and daily salad buffet · weekly starter, cheese, fish and dessert buffets · Christmas and New Year's Eve gala dinners included

Many Austrian hotels do not serve free tap water with meals.