Hotel Aurach, Kitzbuhel, Austria

· in Aurach, a 5-10-minute bus ride to the centre of Kitzbühel · 5-10-minute bus ride to the Hahnenkamm gondola, nursery slopes and ski school meeting point (buses go regularly every 10-15 minutes, with a gap between 9-10am) · 5 minutes’ walk to the ski bus stop

A place with proper Tyrolean charm, Hotel Aurach is one of those cosy, family‑run stays that just feels good from the moment you walk in. The lounge is super inviting, with an open fire that pretty much begs you to sink into a chair after dinner. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with alpine touches like carved pine headboards that give things a warm, traditional feel. And there’s even a sauna when you need to recharge your ski muscles.

You’ll be based on the outskirts of the quiet village of Aurach, perfect if you like a dose of calm after a day on the mountain. When you do want more buzz, Kitzbühel is only 3km away – really easy to reach by ski bus or taxi. Mornings start with a decent breakfast spread to fuel you up, then it’s out to the slopes for as much skiing as your legs can handle. Coming back in the evening feels like slipping into a slower, more peaceful pace.

Dinner is a relaxed, 3‑course affair in the bright dining room, with a choice of main you pick ahead of time. Expect hearty, regional fare that fills you up and is unfussy, like crispy Wiener Schnitzel or oozing Käsespätzle – exactly what you want after a big ski day. All in all, if you’re after warmth, good value and that authentic alpine vibe, this three-star will be spot‑on.

Top tip: During busier times, take the ski bus in the opposite direction to Jochberg and hop on the Wagstatt gondola – you’ll usually get up the mountain quicker, and the slopes over there tend to be quieter.

· bar · lounge with open fireplace · hotel restaurant · sun terrace · wellness area with sauna and relaxation room · boot room · lobby and reception (8am – 11pm) · safe (at the reception) · free WiFi throughout · 25 rooms

Half Board

· Continental buffet breakfast · 3-course evening meal with a choice of main course · Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve gala dinners included · vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options are available on request – please let us know about any requirements when you book

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

All rooms have a TV and hairdryer.

Twin room (approx. 20m²) - sleeps 2: Austrian twin beds, private bath or shower and WC.

Twin room (approx. 22m²) - sleeps 2-3: Austrian twin beds, extra single folding bed when booked for three, private bath with shower and WC.

Twin room (approx. 22m²) - sleeps 2-4: Austrian twin beds, two extra single folding beds when booked for three or four, private bath with shower and WC.

Single room (approx. 15m²) - sleeps 1: Single bed, private shower and WC.

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

Cots are available to hire, free of charge, on request.