Where the frost doesn’t bite and the snow's always falling.

Austrian Alps: Aurelio Lech

Where the frost doesn’t bite and the snow’s always falling.

We seem to have skipped fall this year and spiraled headfirst into winter—the dreaded season of frigid temperatures and mountainous snow. Where to utilize all of that beautiful powder besides shoveling it out of your driveway? Escape and embrace a new way to ski (or snowboard, for those of you keeping up with us young folk) at the latest and most luxurious lodge in Europe.

With only 19 rooms, Aurelio Lech is the elite newly launched five star resort tucked away in the Austrian Alps. Known for its mile long downhill slopes, fresh powder snow and an unmatched alpine view, Lech is the hottest cold place to be these days.

A luxury appointed bedroom at the newly renovated Aurelio Lech Resort.
A luxuriously appointed bedroom at the newly renovated Aurelio Lech Resort.

It’s not just for hardcore skier/snowboarders either—the Aurelio Spa is a state of the art holistic retreat that hosts two indoor pools, a thermal suite with infra red saunas, cooling down ponds and relaxation zones, light and sound therapy pools, and adventure showers (hmmm—curious?).

The accommodations are innovative in their convenience—you can hit the slopes literally straight from the hotel. The adjacency of the resort to the slopes provides all the sophistication and amenities of a world-class hotel combined with the atmosphere and elegance of a private residence. The lifts and trails cater to any level of skier, from the bunny slopers (ahem) to the true ski bunnies. 85 lifts, 173 miles of downhill slopes and 112 miles of off track skiing.

That’s what I’m talking about.

There’s a strange combination of peace and adrenaline as you race down the open mountain, twisting and turning in any direction your body pushes. Synchronicity pulses. The seduction and ease of getting away at an exclusive resort surrounded only by towering trees and bubbling champagne is both inspiring and enticing. There’s a personal ski butler to offer one-on-one advice, carry your skis to the slopes, and take care of overnight ski service.

No one said you had to sacrifice service just because you’re on the top of a mountain.

You even get WiFi. (But not A&T cell reception, I’m sure.)

Worried that the 1,180 sf suite won’t be big enough for the whole family? There’s a breathtaking private villa on the premises. It’s an entirely separate building offering nine bedrooms, a library, dining room, living room and fireplace. Your own truly personal haven.

So, when the ice on your windshield finally cracks and the dirty snow of the city gets you itching for the mountains, hit the Alps at Aurelio.

Ski season will take on an entirely new meaning.

By Jenna Marie Bostock.