Fine food is an essential ingredient for any holiday, but I think that this is particularly true when it comes to winter breaks. You can’t beat a plate of hearty food with a glass (or two) of fine wine in a classy restaurant, whilst the cold weather outside creates a warm and magical atmosphere inside.
If this sounds like your kind of vacation, then I highly recommend that you check out the fantastic Austrian ski resort of Obergurgl. In addition to the beautiful setting in the scenic Tyrolean region, Obergurgl is a great spot for a winter ski getaway and for anyone looking for a more alternative ski destination.
You can spend your days shredding the slopes thanks to absolute snow guarantee, before reflecting on a fun day in one of the many superb eateries in the resort and on the mountain. Whether you are looking for burger and chips or fine dining – Obergurgl has you covered.
Looking for culinary delights in the Tyrol region? Check out this guide to Innsbruck’s cuisine.
There are many hidden gems when it comes to dining, but be sure to check out these wonderful eateries.
Edelweiss & Gurgl
Looking for a unique and unforgettable culinary experience? Head to Edelweiss & Gurgl, at 1930m, where the highly talented chefs will take you on a tantalising journey into the world of haute cuisine.
The award-winning a la carte restaurant has a wide selection of beautifully presented and mouth-watering dishes to choose from, but the house specialities are highly recommended. These include tender veal from calves fed only straw and milk, juicy and succulent beef from locally reared Tyrolean Grey cattle and delicious seasonal game dishes. There are also many fine wines and the experienced sommeliers are on hand to advise you on selecting the right beverage to accompany your meal. Perfection.
Tip: For an authentic skiing experience, be sure to order fondue! This is only available with prior reservation.
There is an elegant and peaceful ambience here and you can choose between three stylish and cosy dining rooms.
Hoe Mut Alm
Head to Hoe Mut Alm for tasty Tyrolean food in a spectacular setting. Located up in the heavens, at the top of the mountain at 3000m altitude, this restaurant offers breathtaking panoramic views of the imposing glaciers and surrounding area – you can take all of this in whilst indulging in impressive Tyrolean gastronomy. This is best enjoyed from the marvellous panoramic terrace, where you can relax on a deck chair with your favourite drink after a long day on the slopes.
You are spoilt for choice here; these are a few of the more popular dishes at Hoe Mut Alm: homemade farmers sausage with roasted potatoes and Sauerkraut; a selection of local dumplings with ham, spinach and cheese served on Sauerkraut; and a gorgeous South Tyrolean dish of noodles with mushrooms, ham and salami in a creamy Bolognese sauce. You must also try one of the fabulous desserts (you are on holiday after all), with homemade apple strudel with vanilla sauce being just one of the tempting dishes available.
Gourmetstube
Located in the lavish Hotel Hochfirst, Gourmetstube is an elegant and sophisticated establishment that is the perfect choice for a romantic meal. The ornate dining room has exquisitely decorated tables and a menu that is just as impressive. Here you can enjoy regional cuisine, as well as a wide range of international dishes if something different takes your fancy. Not just this, but every meal is served with a wine to match in a stylish glass. This will be one dining experience that you will not forget in a hurry.
If you are anything like me, then you will find that no fine dining experience is complete without a pre-dinner drink. There are dozens of options at Obergurgl, but set the mood for the evening and unwind with a cocktail, glass of wine or craft beer in one of these fine establishments.
C.U. Cocktail Bar
This sophisticated cocktail bar is the perfect place to start your special evening. There is an enormous selection of delicious cocktails (and other beverages) to choose from, as well as a cool ambience that will help you to relax as soon as you arrive. Be sure to check out the excellent sun terrace where you can take in the views.
The C.U. Cocktail Bar really comes to life later in the evening with parties and live music, so head back here after your meal if you are in the mood for fun and socialising.
The Wine Lounge
Wine lovers will be in heaven here as you can come together with like-minded folk and relax as you taste a range of fine and rare wines. The grand table is an excellent spot to soak up the atmosphere, but you can also find a quiet corner and enjoy people watching in this unique venue.
How to Get to Obergurgl
You never want to spend too much time travelling on a short getaway so that you can maximise the time that you do have – which is another reason that Obergurgl is a fine choice. Nestled in the Ötztal Alps in Tyrol, the resort is best accessed by flying into Innsbruck (INN) airport. This will take just 2 hours from the UK. Innsbruck is the closest airport at 96km, so it should take roughly an hour and 20 minutes to reach by road. British Airways and easyJet make daily flights from Gatwick, which makes it easy to find flights even at short notice.
A pre-booked Shuttle Direct transfer will be the quickest and easiest way to reach the resort from the airport; this will allow you to sit back and think about which of the many great restaurants you will visit first! Shuttle Direct will also carry your ski equipment for no added charge if advised at the time of booking.
Where to Stay:
The Crystal – A magnificent hotel that features huge rooms with large windows and balconies that offer amazing views of the surrounding area. Many guests also praise the restaurant here, which serves up a mix of traditional and modern dishes – this means you do not have to leave the hotel for a great meal. The luxury hotel also features a sun terrace, indoor pool, spa and wellness centre, solarium, a bar and Wi-Fi is free and available in all areas.
Josl Mountain Lounging Hotel – This splendid adult only hotel is a great choice for any couple seeking a romantic getaway. Here you will find terrific mountain views, spacious and modern rooms and a stylish lounge bar complete with a roaring open fire. The incredible rooftop area features an indoor and outdoor pool, a hot tub, relaxation room with panoramic views and a massage room. You can also enjoy a breakfast buffet, lunch menu, afternoon buffet and 4-course dinner at the onsite restaurant.
Hotel Gurglhof – Another great choice for lovebirds, Hotel Gurglhof boasts large rooms that come with cable TV, a lounge area and romantic décor (some also come with a balcony). You can indulge at the onsite spa, which features a sauna, herbal steam bath and relaxation room with lovely views of the area. You do not have to stray far for a romantic meal, as the restaurant serves a range of delicious Austrian and international dishes throughout the day, which are sure to impress.
About Shuttle Direct:
Shuttle Direct is Europe’s most trusted airport transfer provider. They have great experience in providing safe and reliable passage between airports, hotels, train stations and cruise terminals throughout the continent. They also have a wealth of experience in wintery destinations and can make travel on your ski trip simple and straightforward.
Book today using their easy-to-use online system and let their expert team handle the rest.
