In Sölden, in Tyrol, the Das Central hotel effortlessly combines alpine luxury and relaxation. Between powder descents and panoramic hikes, one strolls around in boots or sneakers before slipping into chic attire for a Michelin-starred dinner. Top-notch rooms, a Rooftop Summit Spa in the air, a monumental wine cellar, and gourmet addresses perched at over 3,000 m: here is a joyfully detailed review of this five-star retreat that knows how to play the comfort card… without ever taking itself too seriously.
An alpine address with relaxed chic
Nestled in the heart of the village of Sölden, but sheltered from the hustle and bustle of the main street, Das Central embodies the warmest side of five-star hospitality. A family-run establishment for 55 years, now held by Angelika Falkner, the hotel embraces a style of “daytime slopes, evening glamour.” And the adventure is literally at your doorstep: in winter, one accesses a 145 km ski area served by 31 state-of-the-art lifts; in summer, there are 1,600 km of marked trails crisscrossing the Ötztal. In short, one breathes, climbs, glides… then savors.
Rooms and suites: cocoons with a view
The 125 rooms and suites, all individually decorated, play on natural textures and contemporary lines. Junior suites open to the peaks, Wellness suites with private spa space, and generously sized penthouses of up to 105 m²: everyone finds their nest. After the 2023 renovation, 31 brand new rooms and suites have been added to the collection, increasing the choice without altering the cozy soul of the place.
Head to the Wellness suite Söldenkogl: elegant wood, mineral hues, and large windows overlooking the stream. The balcony stretches above the Ötztaler Ache and Söldenkogl, featuring a real private spa: sunlit veranda and sauna just for you. The bathroom checks all the boxes for happiness: Italian shower, deep bathtub, double sink, natural cosmetics Valentina & Philippa… and even a heated Japanese toilet seat (yes, the mountains can be high-tech). Added to this are Wi-Fi, TV, safe, Nespresso machine, fluffy bathrobes, spa bag, slippers… and a hiking backpack ready for the next day’s escape.
Rooftop Summit Spa: at the peak of wellness
Perched on the 4th and 5th floors, the Rooftop Summit Spa turns heads. Its star? A 17 m infinity pool seemingly floating above Sölden, complemented by a whirlpool on the sun terrace and relaxation areas bathed in light. On the warmth side, the Summit Sauna Area boasts an animated Finnish sauna, bio panorama sauna, salt steam bath, and cold plunge pool facing the peaks. For the daring, cryotherapy at -110°C promises express rejuvenation (and a little heroic chill).
There’s also an indoor pool on the ground floor, reminiscent of a Venetian winter garden, and an Adults only floor in the basement dedicated to wellness, featuring a range of seven saunas (including infrared, tepidarium, and ice cave). The more energetic will head to the Summit Cardio Fitness (5th floor), equipped with Technogym and a terrace for sunlit sessions, before seriously training at the strength center of 120 m² on the lower level.
Exceptional dining: from breakfast to stars
The day begins with a gourmet breakfast and in the evening, it’s time for the tasting menu featuring five courses at the restaurant Feinspitz. Antipasti and salad buffets, attentive service, and sometimes a visit from Angelika Falkner herself, who comes to inquire about the guests’ pleasure.
For high-flying dining, one can settle in at the Ötztaler Stube, Michelin-starred. Chef Stefan Speiser creates a seasonal cuisine, sourced locally and sustainably, culminating in formidable desserts. The food-wine pairings navigate between Austria and the world, often drawing from the cellar, a true treasure chest: over 30,000 bottles from seven countries and forty regions.
A more intimate atmosphere awaits at the Marend Stube, featuring pine wood paneling, heart-carved chairs, and a menu that is both traditional and comforting. During the day, head to the Summit Bistro & Bar for snacks, and to the Bar & Cigar Lounge to sip by the glow of embers.
Elevated gastronomy: Ice Q and other altitude retreats
The indulgence continues at the summit. Hop on the Gaislachkogl cable car to reach Ice Q, perched at 3,048 m in a spectacular glass cube. This address, spotted by James Bond in Spectre, claims the title of the highest gourmet restaurant in the Alps. At the intermediate station, beyond 2,000 m, the FALCON restaurant (à la carte and market) serves regional classics, with a very good selection of vegetarian and vegan options.
Slopes, trails, and 007 at your fingertips
In winter, one carves through 145 km of slopes thanks to 31 ultra-modern lifts. In summer, one flits through 1,600 km of hiking and mountain biking trails. The hotel provides a direct shuttle to the cable cars, with the Giggijoch and Gaislachkogl stations about 500 m away. At the summit, the 007 ELEMENTS experience unfolds a cinematic immersion into the Bond universe and the behind-the-scenes of Spectre. One goes up for culture… and comes down with stars in their eyes.
For whom, how much, and how to get there
Demanding families, couples seeking romance, and seasoned adventurers will find their happiness here. Prices start around €250 per person per night for half board, based on double occupancy. In terms of access, Innsbruck Airport is just an hour’s drive away, with direct flights from London operated by British Airways and EasyJet. Arrive, drop your bags, and head off to enjoy the mountains: it’s straightforward and efficient.
The details that make it all
What stands out, beyond the chandelier? A sincere ambiance of a family home, the kindness of the staff, the hiking backpack ready to go, the heated Japanese toilet that brings a smile, and the rare feeling of going from a day of action to an evening of gastronomy in the blink of an eye. Between refined comfort and sporty freedom, Das Central finds a terribly appealing balance.
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