Après-ski: summer in the Alps

Don't limit your visits to these resorts in the winter ski season – they offer culture, sports and unrivalled beauty during the summer too

Travel and Wellbeing 5 Jul 2018

Alpaga, Megève, France. Photograph by Benoît Linero
Gstaad Palace, Gstaad, Switzerland
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Bad Ragaz, Switzerland
Aurelio, Lech, Austria
The Chedi, Andermatt, Switzerland

Known the world over for their stunning landscapes and luxury resorts, the European Alps are the go-to for those looking to enjoy the winter season in style. Increasingly, however, the elite are flocking to enjoy the summer months in stunning spa resorts across the French, Swiss and Austrian Alps.

With such a large selection of five-star hotels, there’s something here for everyone. Here, Brummell cherry picks the five stand-out spa hotels across the European Alps for the ideal summer getaway.

Alpaga, Megève, France

For those looking to relax and recuperate as well as soak up the local French Alpine culture, it’s hard to beat the chalets of the Alpaga. Nestled just minutes from the village of Megève, the private chalets encompass stunning large reception areas, a Michelin-starred restaurant, picturesque gardens and a Swedish bath with a direct view of the stunning Mont Blanc.

Part of the group ‘Les Hôtels d’en Haut’, the traditional architecture and spirit of the Alps resonates throughout. Alpaga offers everything from peace and quiet to a stunning setting and world class dining, and the hotel incorporates traditional products and services from the village of Megève.

alpaga.com

Gstaad Palace, Gstaad, Switzerland

Arguably the most picturesque hotel in the Swiss Alps, Gstaad Palace looks as though it was plucked from a fairy tale. Opened in 1913, the stunning luxury hotel is rich with history, having long been an international must-visit destination graced by celebrity royalty including Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and Marlene Dietrich.

Not only does the town of Gstaad host an array of activities including an annual Jazz Festival in June and July, and tennis and beach volleyball tournaments, but the Gstaad Palace also provides the perfect place to unwind. With wellness facilities stretching over 1,800 square metres, the exclusive complex offers private treatment rooms and spas as well as saunas, steam baths and a unique Hammam experience.

palace.ch

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

Shortlisted for the Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards 2018, the facilities here definitely won’t disappoint. With a rich history centred around the thermal springs of the Tamina gorge, the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz not only hosts an exquisite spa, but also a medical centre offering nutrition services, dermatology, movement therapy and sports medicine.

The award winning spa and hotel is located near an abundance of natural features sure to make your experience unique. Whether you prefer to hike or cycle between the mountains or around the Walensee Lake, relax in the thermal springs or indulge in any of a dozen gourmet restaurants in the area, this is a spot you’re sure to return to.

resortragaz.ch

Aurelio, Lech, Austria

Lech has a reputation as being one of the world’s most exclusive ski destinations and it’s not hard to see why. Teeming with luxury hotels and world-class dining spots, there’s plenty to get your teeth into in Lech. The town itself still revels in understated traditional charm, and the Aurelio harmoniously combines old-school Austrian appeal with modern influences and comforts.

The spa at the Aurelio is a beautifully designed oasis with saunas, aroma-infused steam rooms, sensory showers and plenty of space to relax. The fitness areas are also kitted out to provide all you could need, however if you prefer to continue with your relaxation rather than working up a sweat, Aurelio’s gourmet restaurant – proud owner of three toques from Gault Millau – seamlessly combines traditional and modern Austrian cuisine with international dishes.

aureliolech.com

The Chedi, Andermatt, Switzerland

Named Hotel of the Year 2017 by the restaurant guide Gault Millau, The Chedi Andermatt flawlessly unites traditional Swiss charm with Asian-style elements. Andermatt itself is not only one of the most charming and well-loved winter destinations in the Swiss Alps, but also offers a wide range of summer activities.

Alongside alpine golf, cycling experiences and hiking trails, The Chedi also provides Alpine cheesemaking classes, supercar experiences and even a goat trek to bring you right back to nature. If you’re looking more to relax and unwind, The Chedi offers a modern health club and stunning spa facilities.

thechedi-andermatt.com

With its beautiful weather and breathtaking vistas, whether you’re looking to escape the city, enjoy the great outdoors or just soak in world-class spa facilities, a Summer in the Alps could be just the ticket.