Featured image courtesy of © DAS EDELWEISS Salzburg Mountain Resort
Alright, imagine this… you’ve been traveling for twenty-four hours. You’ve had a wink of sleep. You’re jetlagged. The kids are hanging on by a thread. As long as this place is half as good as I remember…. You stagger over to the check-in counter. The receptionist smiles. She takes the keys to park your car and get your luggage as she invites you to relax in the luxurious lounge. Before you know it, you’re sipping complimentary sparkling wine by the fire as you let out a big sigh. Ahhh, I’m back… and it’s even better than I remember. Suddenly, the long trek from San Francisco was more than worth it. Das Edelweiss felt like home and vacation, all at the same time. In my humble travel-obsessed opinion, this is the best ski resort in Austria for families, and it just got even better.
This five-star hotel could have just relished in their exceptional ratings, but instead, they took it to another level. And I love that they did it while preserving their treat-you-like-family Austrian charm. From the top-notch kids’ club to the refined, cozy suites, and every unforgettable moment in between, they unknowingly ruined every other hotel for me.
Danke Edelweiss. Just Danke.
I initially found Das Edelweiss in 2021, while searching for a Familienhotel (or “family hotel”). Little did I know – I had discovered a one-of-a-kind resort that we’d want to return to again and again.
From the moment we walked in and saw the modern bar, swanky lounge, and a few small children cheerfully roaming about, we were hooked. Upscale and kid-friendly – this was our kind of place.
After that unforgettable first stay, we couldn’t wait to relive it. And this time, we brought my parents so we could share it with them.
With Das Edelweiss’s recent renovations and our suite fit-for-a-king-and-queen, it’s official. The best ski resort in Austria just got even better.
The Suite Life
We’ve learned the hard way that a spacious, nice room can sometimes make or break how you feel about a hotel, especially when traveling with young children.
I was so excited as we checked into our Deluxe Family Suite, where we’d sprawl out for the next four days. The kids loved goofing off in their separate bedroom, while we enjoyed our own alone time.
Can you believe this suite actually sleeps up to six people?!
My husband and I felt like royalty as we clinked our glasses. We couldn’t believe we were finally back at our favorite hotel.
Once jetlag got the best of the family, I decided to have some mama time. Because that’s what you do after you fly across the globe with two little ones and have an amazing spa bathroom calling your name.
I didn’t want my calming, blue-lit shower to end until I remembered that heated floors, a plush robe, and these were waiting for me:
In case you couldn’t see the heated suspension lounger, here’s a closer look:
Watch the video tour on my Instagram to see more of our family suite.
‘Date Night’ Meets ‘Steak Night’
After my in-room spa day, I was ready for a night out. We have very few date nights at home, so no one was more thrilled about the kids’ club than I. By day two, the kids preferred to “eat and run.” Off to play they went, while we finished our meal. In peace.
Of course, no date night is complete without a sweet little night cap…
The half-board room rate includes an elaborate breakfast and multi-course dinner in the main restaurant. You can also choose to upgrade and pay for your dinner at one of two finer restaurants. They credit 25 euro per person to your bill when you do this instead of sitting in the main dining room.
During our first stay, I regretted not trying the steakhouse Sirloin Grill and Dine, so I made up for it this time around. From oysters to lobster soup to “pimping our steak” (as they call it) with scallops, we were living it up. When in Austria, right?
What really blew me away though was the steak. They call their Porterhouse the ‘king’ of steaks, and it was fit for a king indeed. This juicy cut of beef was phenomenal… unlike any other steak I’ve had. And don’t even get me goin’ on the addicting truffle fries.
This time I regret not indulging in their new sushi bar. I guess add it to the list of reasons we must go back.
After we couldn’t possibly eat anymore, we picked up the kids from the kids’ club and we all had a blast dancing to live music in the lounge. That’s three generations of dance moves – what a memorable night!
The Best Ski Resort in Austria for Families Just Got Even Better, And So Did Its Spa
I couldn’t believe the spa facilities when we visited the first time – endless saunas, relaxation rooms and kid-friendly spa areas. Well, now they’ve completely renovated it into a beautiful sanctuary.
They pampered me and my mom with massages – one of the best massages I’ve ever had. I couldn’t believe that the prices for such a high-end spa were half of what they are in the Napa Valley. Half!
Brand New Kids’ Club
The renovations didn’t stop at the spa.
The kids and teens clubs are brand new also. Your children will love the climbing structures, toddler zones, movie theater, high-tech trampoline, and state-of-the-art video games. That’s all included in your stay for ages three and up!
The professional and fun staff were great with the kids. Every day, they couldn’t wait to show us what they made with their “teachers”, as our toddler called them!
Instead of being nervous I was actually excited taking our kids there, because I knew they were not only safe, but also having the time of their lives.
Ski In, Ski Out… Anyone?
Only snow could make this winter holiday more magical.
Be careful what you wish for…
I was thrilled that it snowed for two days, but we were just shy of the ski season. Hopefully we’ll be back next year though. With Das Edelweiss’s ski in-ski out feature, this has to be one of the best ski resorts in Austria for families! It seems like a “no-brainer” for skiing here with little ones. The equipment, gondola lift, and ski school are right there. All you have to do is reserve your gear so they can have it heated and ready to go for ya. Yes. Heated gear.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing or adventurous winter getaway (or both), then this is your place. Enjoy panoramic views from 1,954 meters high at Wolke 7, their latest restaurant. Or explore some of the many outdoor adventures in Grossarltal.
So many adventures at your fingertips (Top of Salzburg, horse-drawn sleigh ride, and more). Our favorite was the year-round alpine coaster in Kaprun. Next time we want to go wild at one of the winter adventure parks like Snow Space Salzburg or Fischbacher Adventure Hill. There families can bobsled, tube, toboggan, ski, and more – all for FREE!
If you’re more of a day-tripper, then you’ll love the close proximity to charming Austrian cities and towns like Salzburg and Halstatt.
From Sledding to Sliding
If you do want a dose of adventure but don’t want to leave the resort, they’ve got you covered. Is there anything better than going from outdoor sledding to indoor waterslides, in just a matter of minutes?
No, there’s not! Our three-year-old would agree. Best. Day. Ever. Out of all fourteen days of our magical Christmas markets trip, this one was my favorite!
The Best Ski Resort in Austria for Families Just Got Even Better
When I thought my favorite resort couldn’t get any better, it did just that. Our second stay somehow topped our first.
We’ve stayed at many five-star resorts, but none of them have made us feel like we’re family, like we’re home (if home had top notch decor, food, and amenities).
From our family to yours, Danke Das Edelweiss. No, seriously this time. Vielen Dank.
Are you craving a stay here as much as I am? Get in touch with me at jennifer.mcfadden@fora.travel. As a certified travel advisor, I’d love to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Austria (how to get there, what room to book, and the perfect Austrian vacay itinerary).
