Our week at Chalet Senger was among the mostly memorable weeks we have ever spent in just one place. The reception was little less than familial, assuming that at least someone in your family is warm, attentive and genuinely concerned about your comfort and well-being. The staff was always there to help with getting settled, arranging ski lessons and transport, special meals, cleaning and late night snacks. The chalet itself has modern fixtures and all the Alpine charm of an Austrian inn that really did start long ago as a farm – the atmosphere that every Stowe and Aspen lodge seeks to “re-create.” Our tasteful suite had ample room for a family of four – although I was traveling with just one son. It had a newly refurbished bathroom and a double balcony overlooking the classic village below.

My ten year-old son and I visited the spa almost every evening during the week that we stayed – using the sauna, steam room, cold water cool-down bath, showers and relaxation room.

The food was copious and delicious. It was a bit of a shock to find five-course gourmet fare in a relatively small inn. The breakfast buffet was likewise substantial, although I stuck with several bowls of the scrumptious house muesli every morning.

Almost all hotels/inns I’ve had the fortune to stay at in recent years have been very clean, but Chalet Senger was immaculate. It’s hard to describe, but it simply set a standard for spotless.

The ski slopes at Heiligenblut offer ample challenging and off-piste and skiing, but it is mostly ideal for a family trip. We got a foot of snow while we were there, making the skiing (and pictures) even more special. The village of Heiligenblut is highlighted by its15th century Gothic church, a pilgrimage destination for people from throughout Austria and beyond.

Inside tips! The Wednesday night Fondue at the chalet is a treat, but it conflicts with another special event in town. The chalet (might) have a connection for the village picnic dinner featured on Wednesday nights during the winter. The perfect temperature, light snow, bonfire, music, schnapps, great barbecue and company conspired to make the evening a treasured event.