Hotel Residenz Hochalm

The ultra-modern Hotel Residenz Hochalm sits atop a mountain offering sweeping panoramas of the Kitzbühel Alps. The building itself seems out of place in such an organic setting with its multiple levels of metal, glass, and concrete, but the contemporary design is brightened inside with pops of color and natural wood. Logs have been stylized into sculptures, wall features, and decorative stools. The lobby has a sizable lounge area with slick, black leather couches as well as a grand piano near the fireplace, plus there's a small play zone with toys for young children. The same style is continued into the posh little restaurant, which also has a wrap-around terrace and outdoor seating.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is a picturesque Alpine village with an emphasis on outdoor activities. Guests have direct access to the Hochalmbahn Cable Car from the hotel, connecting them to 124.3 miles of slopes, 6.2 miles of cross-country ski runs, and 55 ski lifts. During the off-season (summer), interest shifts toward hiking, biking, and rafting. There isn’t much in terms of shopping and dining around the hotel, but the city center is 10 minutes away via car, and also accessible by bus in about 20 minutes. For those looking to venture outside of the village, Salzburg is about an hour away by car. 

Rooms vary in size from singles and doubles to spacious two- and three-bedroom suites, all of which are clean and stylish, with minimalist, contemporary decor. The beds have slick, wooden headboards with built-in reading lights, while bedding features an elk motif and lends a rustic touch to the modern spaces. There aren’t any decorative items in the rooms, and the wall art is minimal -- if there's any at all. Some guests won’t mind, while others might find the setting to be a little sterile. All rooms have flat-screen TVs with cable and mini-fridges; some also have Keurig coffeemakers. The terraces vary in grandeur, but they're all furnished with chairs and offer amazing views of the mountains. Bathrooms are spacious, however double sinks and luxurious soaking tubs are reserved for larger rooms -- smaller ones are shower-only.

The property is family-friendly with high chairs and baby monitors available. Extra beds for children can be rented for a fee. Breakfast and dinner are included in the booking price, and kids’ menus are available as well. The on-site restaurant specializes in Pinzgau cuisine, and features an “Alpine Fit” menu using local and organic ingredients. While skiing dominates the high season, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the area in the summer as well. Hotel staff will assist in booking guided hikes, bike tours, mountain hut excursions, and rafting tours. Also, Joker Cards (for access and activity discounts) are included free of charge during the summer months. The on-site spa offers several types of massages and therapeutic treatments. Guests have free access to the saunas and relaxation areas during their stay. Wi-Fi is free, and parking is available off-site, though shuttle service is provided to and from the lot.