We’ve

We’ve
stayed in a lot of hotels. Most are good, some are
brilliant, and then there are those that linger in your mind long
after the door has clicked shut behind you. Severin*s is one of them.

Tucked on a mountain slope away from the
clatter of ski boots and clink of glühwein
glasses in Lech proper, this is the ultimate alpine retreat.
Constructed from wood over 150 years old, the gorgeous chalet-style
building stands proud and welcoming, and you just know there’ll
always be a lit fire inside.

Cross the hearth and you’ll find that fire crackling away in a
sitting room that’ll make you want to kick off your shoes and curl
up – the only thing stopping you being impeccably chic surrounds
that blend traditional alpine interiors with contemporary touches
such as architectural light fittings, design-led furniture and a
bookshelf full of interesting, arty reads.

A glass of champagne appears in your hand, quickly followed by
miniature burgers. Then you’re led through Lichtenstein-strung
corridors – the owner is an art collector, and many works are for
sale – to your room, where you immediately Google “careers at
Severin*s” so you can move in
permanently.

Rooms

Nine suites are the definition of “sumptuous” with exposed wood,
contemporary Italian furniture by Minotti,
flat-screen Loewe televisions, faux-fur throws, striking artwork,
beds that could easily sleep four and, of course, a fireplace,
making for deliciously cosy surroundings in which to rest tired
limbs after a day on the slopes (or evening familiarising yourself
with the après-ski scene).

Black-marble bathrooms are impossibly glossy, completed by
paddling pool-sized baths and rain showers. iPads are integrated
into the walls to control the lights, television and surround-sound
systems, and your (included) minibar will be restocked on a daily
basis.

Senior suites have a dining area in the living room, while the
sprawling “Residence” offers split-level living for up to eight
people, with a fully equipped kitchen (for your private chef), a
self-playing grand piano, cinema room and whirlpool hot
tub on the terrace.

What’s for breakfast?

A lavish spread of regional meats and cheeses join an a la carte
menu, while little pots of fruity, yoghurt-y, nutty goodness and
fresh bread await on every table.

How about lunch and dinner?

Deep-blue velvet chairs, blonde wood and hanging gold orb-like
lights make for simply beautiful surroundings in which to spend at
least two hours (and probably three) getting to grips with a
sophisticated menu that combines local produce with global flavours
on pretty plates. Like all the other rooms, the atmosphere remains
homely with convivial chatter emanating from the handful of tables;
dining here will leave you with a warm glow, helped along by
several bottles from the well-curated wine cellar.

Is there a bar?

Yes, in the reception area – though you’ll probably want to take
yours to the living room. The negronis are excellent.

Amenities

Free WiFi, parking (in a heated basement car park), laundry
service and 24-hour butler service both included in your room,
indoor swimming pool, spa and wellness
centre including Technogym, sauna and steam room.

Things I should know

With 26 staff members, there is at least one pair of hands per
guest… We’re still assessing how our skillset could make the
cut.

Within a short walk I can find…

Perhaps the only downside of this place is the fact that it’s
located in Stubenbach, about a five-minute drive away from the
centre of Lech. You’ll need to hitch a lift with the hotel’s
chauffeur to get to the ski lifts and après bars. On the plus side,
the resort villages of Zürs, St Christoph and St Anton are all in
the vicinity, so once you get into town you are spoilt for choice
when it comes to runs.

This trip was arranged by The Oxford Ski Company.