Discovering Tyrol: My Stay at Interalpen, Austria
Earlier this month I was delighted to be a guest on a FAM trip to Tyrol, Austria, hosted by Calliope Collective and the Interalpen Hotel. I travelled from Manchester to Munich, then joined a small group of fellow travel professionals for the scenic journey up into the mountains: the perfect introduction to what turned out to be a very special alpine escape.
First Impressions of Interalpen
Interalpen is a luxury, five‑star superior alpine hotel, and it really does live up to that description. Although it is a large property, it never once felt overwhelming or impersonal. The clever layout, warm atmosphere and thoughtful service create a relaxed, intimate feel, which I think many of my clients would really appreciate.
The setting is spectacular: perched in the Tyrolean mountains with far‑reaching views from all sides. Wherever you are in the hotel, there always seems to be a window framing the landscape.
Spacious Rooms & Suites
One of the
things that stood out straight away was the size and comfort of the rooms. Even
the entry‑level rooms are generously proportioned and very well equipped, with
plenty of storage and a real sense of space to unwind.
I was particularly impressed with the twin rooms. So often in twin configurations you end up with two beds virtually pushed together, but here there is a much more considered layout, making them ideal for friends or family members travelling together.
At the top end, the penthouse suite is truly something special: expansive, beautifully styled and with a double aspect balcony maximising the stunning views. It would be a wonderful choice for a special occasion stay.
Dining Highlights: From Breakfast Feasts to a Michelin‑Starred Chef’s Table
Food is an
important part of any luxury stay, and Interalpen did not disappoint.
- Breakfast: The buffet is one of the most extensive I have seen, with an impressive variety of hot and cold dishes, fresh fruit, baked goods and healthy options. It caters well to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Mountain hut experience: A real highlight of the trip was dinner at the hotel’s mountain hut: a cosy, atmospheric experience that feels distinctly Tyrolean and a little bit different with traditional, local food and music. I would recommend guests try to include a Thursday night stay to enjoy this.
- Michelin‑starred Chef’s Table: The Michelin‑starred Chef’s Table was another standout: beautifully presented dishes forming a ten-course tasting menu paired with excellent wines, and the chance to see the kitchen team at work. For food lovers, this experience is an absolute must and something I would very happily recommend to my clients.
Spa, Pool & Relaxation Spaces
The spa and
wellness facilities are excellent, and the indoor pool is notably large for an
alpine hotel, which makes it perfect for both a proper swim and relaxed
lounging.
Around the property, there are numerous cosy corners and terraces, both indoors and outdoors, where guests can sit with a drink, read a book or simply soak up the views. I really liked that it never felt crowded: you genuinely have the option to find a quiet spot and feel as if you have escaped from everyone else for a while.
Service & Atmosphere
Throughout my
stay, every member of staff I encountered was friendly, welcoming and helpful.
The service feels polished yet warm, which is exactly what I look for when
recommending a five‑star property to my clients.
The hotel itself has a very distinctive alpine style, with lots of wood and traditional touches. Some guests might prefer a more contemporary look, but I found it very in‑keeping with the surroundings and part of what gives the hotel its character and sense of place.
Exploring Beyond the Hotel
As much as I loved the hotel, it was also important for me to explore the local area so I can share ideas with clients about what there is to see and do nearby.
Two standout
experiences were:
- 007 ELEMENTS James Bond experience: A great option for film fans and those looking for something a little different, 007 ELEMENTS is a James Bond cinematic installation built inside the summit of the Gaislachkogl Mountain in Sölden where they filmed some of the iconic scenes from Spectre. Seven themed galleries take you deep into the cinematic world of James Bond – a true highlight for movie lovers, tech enthusiasts, and architecture fans alike. We followed this with a delicious 3-course lunch at ice Q restaurant enjoying the stunning views of the mountains.
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds: An imaginative, immersive attraction that combines art, design and crystal installations. It makes for a fascinating excursion and a lovely contrast to time spent in the mountains. Start with the Chambers of Wonder and walk through the subterranean art installations and mirrored rooms, then allow time to explore the gardens to see the Crystal Cloud, Mirror Pool, and art pieces. At the end of our visit to Crystal Worlds we enjoyed lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten.
The journeys
themselves were also a pleasure, with plenty of time to simply enjoy the
changing scenery and dramatic alpine landscapes.
A Year‑Round Mountain Escape
One of the biggest strengths of Interalpen is that it offers a genuinely year‑round experience. The different seasons all have their own appeal:
- Spring and summer: Ideal for walking, hiking and mountain biking, with lush landscapes and milder temperatures.
- Autumn: Beautiful colours, quieter trails and a cosy, retreat‑like feel in the hotel.
- Winter: A perfect base for skiing and snow activities, returning each day to that spacious spa and inviting pool.
A trip to Innsbruck also works well as an add‑on at any time of year, combining mountain scenery with a charming city break.
Final Thoughts
My time at Interalpen in Tyrol was a wonderful mix of luxury, comfort, great food and memorable experiences both in and out of the hotel. It is a fantastic option for couples, friends, families and anyone looking for a refined mountain escape with plenty of space to breathe.
If you would like to know whether Interalpen or the Tyrolean Alps would be a good fit for your next holiday, I would love to share more and tailor some ideas to you.