Swiss ski savings
Now that the snow has finally arrived in the Alps, the possibility of a winter ski holiday will soon be a reality. Though the Swiss franc is still strong, look around and you will find ample opportunities to save. For example, both the Kulm Hotel St Moritz and Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina, two of Switzerland’s top ten winter sports hotels – as nominated by Sonntagszeitung, the country’s leading Sunday newspaper, have several offers to tempt skiers.
Book a two to five-night “Ski Special” at the legendary Kulm Hotel St. Moritz (kulmhotel-stmoritz.ch) up until December 21 2011, or from March 18 to March 31 2012, and rates start at CHF 640 (approx £445) per person for two nights, including all services, tax and VAT, a saving of up to 30% on a holiday in the peak months of January through March. The “Ski Special” includes two to five nights’ half-board accommodation, a ski pass for the entire Upper Engadine ski region for the duration of the package, transfers to and from the train station, a sea salt bath of your choice and complimentary use of the hotel’s stunning Panorama SPA & Health Club.
For those after a more traditional week-long skiing holiday, the Kulm Hotel St Moritz has a “Sunshine Holiday” package that includes seven nights’ half-board accommodation, transfers to and from the train station, a 6-day regional ski pass for the entire Upper Engadine, an invigorating sea salt bath and a relaxing head massage. Prices in the low season (up until December 21 2011, or from March 18 to March 31 2012) start from CHF1,825 (approx £1,270) per person, a 45% saving on high season rates.
To book, visit kulmhotel-stmoritz.ch.
Meanwhile, sister property Grand Hotel Kronenhof (kronenhof.com) in nearby Pontresina, just 6kms away, has a great deal that incorporates 30% off ski passes. The “Winter Special” Package includes half-board accommodation – with a chance to sample one-star Michelin food in Kronenstubli – and complimentary use of the hotel’s 2,000 square metre spa, plus a 10% reduction on all spa treatments, as well as a ski pass for the number of days stayed. Prices start from CHF 535 (approx £370) per person sharing a double room; this package is valid up until December 18 2011, and from January 9 to January 19 2012.
The peaceful mountain resort of Pontresina provides easy access to the more famous St. Moritz but a refreshing tranquillity at the end of a hard day’s skiing; relax with a walk through the charming streets lined with old Engadine houses dating to the 17th and 18th centuries or retreat to the hotel’s modern spa with its indoor pools, steam rooms, saunas and treatment rooms.
To book, visit kronenhof.com.
