Austria may be celebrated for its snow-dusted chalets, classical concert halls, and storybook villages, but it’s the country’s hotel scene that’s recently been capturing the limelight. A new wave of design-forward accommodations is redefining hospitality, offering everything from art-filled boutique lodgings nestled in the mountains to sleek, minimalist retreats tucked within serene valleys.
With striking architecture, thoughtfully curated art collections, and interiors worthy of a high-end design magazine, Austria is fast becoming a haven for aesthetes and discerning travelers alike. Whether it’s a stylish sanctuary in the heart of a bustling town or a mountaintop retreat that reimagines the traditional ski lodge, these hotels excel in the art of detail.
Ahead, discover our curated selection of Austria’s most design-savvy stays—each one smart, sophisticated, and brimming with character, much like the guests who choose them.
Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden
An iconic castle-turned-hotel, Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden has drawn nobility, artists, and high society for centuries—and its charm endures. A sleek new U-shaped wing, designed by Viennese firm Jabornegg & Pálffy, brings Bauhaus flair to the historic property with floor-to-ceiling windows and modern interiors that complement the castle’s classic elegance. Add chic restaurants, a beach club with direct lake access, a serene spa, and private cruise experiences, and it’s clear this lakeside retreat has it all.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 5 Stars • Rooms: 102 rooms • Airport: Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) | Amenities: • Indoor & outdoor pools • Sauna, infrared sauna, organic herb sauna, and steam room • 24-hour concierge services • Guided tours aboard the hotel’s motorboat • Exclusive beach club with direct lake access & sun-bed service |
Das Central
In the heart of the Ötztal Alps, Das Central is a year-round alpine escape—skiing in winter, hiking in summer. The newly redesigned hotel features a luxe, multi-level Summit Spa with a rooftop infinity pool, steam bath, saunas, and a cryotherapy chamber, all with sweeping mountain views. After adventuring, indulge in standout dining, including the Michelin-starred Ötztaler Stube and a cellar of 30,000+ wines. Rooms are cozy yet refined, each offering panoramic alpine vistas. Whether it’s wellness, outdoor thrills, or five-star cuisine, Das Central delivers the perfect blend of high-altitude luxury and Austrian charm.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 5 Stars • Rooms: 121 rooms • Airport: Innsbruck Airport (INN) | Amenities: • 4 restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Ötztaler Stube • Infinity pool, outdoor whirlpool, panoramic sauna, steam bath, and plunge pool • Adults-only spa for serene relaxation • Wine cellar stocked with over 30,000 bottles |
Art Hotel Blaue Gans
Arthotel Blaue Gans is where 14th-century bones meet 21st-century cool. Set in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town—just across from the Festspielhaus—this boutique stay pairs vaulted ceilings and centuries-old walls with clean-lined custom furniture, natural materials, and over 120 original artworks. It’s part hotel, part curated gallery, with an in-house restaurant and brasserie that channel the “lightness of the south” through local ingredients and Campari-hued vibes. For travelers who like their culture with a side of contemporary edge, this one’s a standout.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 4 Stars • Rooms: 35 rooms • Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG) | Amenities: • Curated art collection featuring 120+ original works • Historic charm as one of Austria’s oldest hotels (est. 1350) • Complimentary city bikes available on request • 2 restaurants serving local and seasonal fare |
Naturhotel Forsthofgut
Few hotels balance nature and luxury like Naturhotel Forsthofgut. Local architect Andreas Hallinger of Markand Design Studios led the new construction and interiors, ensuring that every detail reflected the hotel’s deep-rooted sustainability philosophy. Think natural materials, sleek finishes, and serene spaces. The wellness area is a standout, with a panoramic pool, adults-only spa, and natural swimming pond. Families are covered too, thanks to a forest playground, kids’ farm, and club. The food? Fresh, local, and divine. Whether you’re here to recharge or roam the mountains, this five-star retreat is where Austrian beauty and thoughtful design meet.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 5 Stars • Rooms: 112 rooms • Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG) | Amenities: • Europe’s first forestSPA • Game enclosure with guided wild animal feedings • Horseback riding experiences • Daily childcare for little travelers • 3 fine dining restaurants • Botanist bar serving creative, garden-inspired cocktails |
Hotel Krallerhof
Tucked in the Leogang mountains, Hotel Krallerhof blends alpine adventure with cutting-edge design. Its standout wellness space, ATMOSPHERE by Krallerhof, was created by Hadi Teherani Architects to mirror the surrounding landscape. Expect a curved split-roof structure, a 50-meter infinity pool, and a natural lake—all crafted with sustainable, locally sourced materials. Beyond the spa, enjoy ski-in/ski-out access, scenic summer hikes, a revamped restaurant, and an in-house bakery. A chef’s table and traditional alpine hut round out the culinary offerings. With over 500 artworks scattered throughout, Krallerhof is where nature, wellness, and refined Austrian hospitality come together beautifully.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 5 Stars • Rooms: 124 rooms • Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG) | Amenities: • Extensive 500-piece art collection • Olympic-size outdoor pool embedded in a natural lake • Spa featuring a cold chamber, red light therapy, and IHHT oxygen training • Dedicated kids’ center for family-friendly stays |
Mountain Resort Feuerberg
For a true taste of Carinthia’s valleys and lakes, stay at Mountain Resort Feuerberg. With 11 pools, including an infinity pool and natural swimming lake, plus 11 saunas and a whole lot of relaxation spaces, the wellness area is hard to beat. There’s something for everyone, from quiet zones for adults to fun family-friendly spots, like a water slide for the kids. When it comes to food, Mountain Resort Feuerberg knows how to keep guests satisfied. With options for everyone, including vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free dishes, going hungry here is not even possible. As for things to do? Well, that list is basically endless.
| Key Points: • Website • Rating: 4 Stars • Rooms: 121 rooms • Airport: Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) | Amenities: • Multiple pools, saunas, and serene relaxation zones • Fresh spring water sourced on-site • E-bikes, climbing hall, archery, yoga, and fitness center • Ski-in/ski-out access for seamless winter fun • Kids’ club with daily programming |
