We found Hotel Edelweiss over the internet so it was one of those gambles that could go either way. But what a find it is! It is nestled in soaring mountains, shrouded in mist with the sound of cow bells tinkling in the distance. This is the setting where the song ‘Silent Night’ was composed and the peacefulness of the place is undeniable.
The hotel itself is family run – and run very well. All the staff are warm, friendly and helpful. Most were fluent in several languages. Nothing was too much trouble. The children were made to feel as welcome as the adults. When we stayed in August there were a lot of children – which was perfect for us. The kids club ran from 1pm – 9pm every day except Saturday and our children loved it. There was also a children’s pool. But the highlight was the new Green Spa – a glorious modern spa overlooking the ecology pool outside and the mountains beyond. I had a massage with Betty and only wish it could have been longer. Bliss! The only word of warning is the whole naked thing – Germans and Austrians seem to love being naked in the saunas (which are unisex).
Of course you need the pool, gym, sauna and mountain hikes to burn off all the delicious food. We opted for half board – breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner. You really couldn’t fit another meal in even if you tried. So I would call this full board. Breakfast was one of the best buffets we have had. Afternoon tea always consisted of homemade cake and something like soup or sausages. Nils, our barman, made a fab cappuccino as well. Dinner in the new addition, with a terrace overlooking the mountains and Wagrain village below, is a treat. A five course meal. Chef served interesting, healthy options every night (though went a little heavy on the ‘foam’).
Our room was perfect for a family. We opted for the Suite – two large rooms, a hallway, bathroom, toilet and luggage storage. We had flat screen TVs in both rooms, comfy beds and a lovely terrace with a view. The decor is Alpine – functional, lots of pine, warming reds and soothing greens. The space and the view are what made the room so comfy.
What also surprised us was how much there is to do around this area of Austria. A visit to the lake, Zell Am See, is a must. We also went to Hitler’s Bavarian retreat in Berchtesgaden – an incredible bunker system survived the Allied bombing and there is an interesting museum attached. Salzburg was heaving as it was the middle of the Salzburg festival. A visit to the Museum of Modern Art high above the city was the highlight (the cafe is funky with incredible views) and the gallery is full of arresting images and experiences (some not ok for children). If you are into the Sound of Music then you are in the right place – grown women were waltzing around the city singing the soundtrack in groups and loving it! There are also salt mines and ice caves – which we meant to visit but ran out of time.
We hope to return this Winter to enjoy the ski season – the pics looked like a Winter Wonderland. Either way, I know we will be back. I really can’t say enough glowing things about Hotel Edelweiss!

we went there with our 1-year-old child. The staff has been lovely and we had everything for the baby.
the room was clean, maybe the bathroom was a bit small, but we had a great stay.
the hotel is located 1 km up the hill over Wagrain and the views are stunnig. the breakfast was scrumptious and the dinner very delightful. We stayed there a fortnight and we forgot all the trouble! A true relax!
and most of all it is only 40 minutes drive fromSalzburg!

First ski/snowboard holiday ever - and what a great place to start. The owner and his staff could not have been more friendly and professional. Very comfortable and chic little hotel. Fantastic food too!

A very well run and pleasant hotel. The management and staff try very hard to make sure that guests are comfortable and have sufficient information about local attractions and activities. Food varied and ample. Rooms spacious and well furnished. Views and location can't be beaten in the area. Give it a try.