Hotel Alpen Royal, Zermatt, Switzerland

NB: while the Supplier rating is 3.5 Star, the Official rating is 3 Star.

· 12 minutes' walk to the resort centre (access 24 hours a day by private elevator shared with the Hotel Schönegg) · 10-15 minutes' walk to the railway station · 5-minute walk to the Sunnegga - Rothorn Paradise (nursery slopes at the top) · 5-minute walk to the ski bus stop

NB: while the Supplier rating is 3.5 Star, the Official rating is 3 Star.

Enjoying a peaceful hillside location, the rustic Hotel Alpen Royal overlooks the village of Zermatt, with magnificent views of the famous Matterhorn. The Sunneggabahn lift and ski bus stop are only a 5-minute walk away – meaning walking in ski boots for too long won’t be an issue – and the resort centre is a leisurely 12-minute walk away – ideal for the evenings when you’ve changed out of your boots.

The rooms at the Alpen Royal are simple yet bright, with big, comfortable beds and some even offer fabulous views of the Matterhorn. However, whatever room you stay in, you’ll still receive an excellent level of service from the staff.

Once you’ve returned from a successful day in the snow, warm up in the hotel’s wellness area by taking a dip in the swimming pool or bubbling whirlpool, or truly relax your muscles in either the sauna or steam bath. Ultimate bliss can also be found with some downtime in the cosy lounge corner.

In the evenings you’ll also be able to sit down to a sublime 4-course dinner. And for a real taste of Switzerland, once a week the hotel will put on speciality dinners so you can try out some of the famous local cuisine like meat fondue and Raclette – they’re mouth-wateringly delicious.

With the public areas beautifully decorated in typical alpine style, this relaxing hotel offers a warm and friendly atmosphere and a great base for a ski holiday.

· indoor heated pool and whirlpool (8am-8pm daily) · sauna and steam room (3-8pm daily) · extra charge for massage in neighbouring Chalet Hotel Schönegg · wood-panelled dining room with splendid views of the Matterhorn · lounge · bar with open fire · free WiFi · extra charge for evening babysitting service (on request and subject to availability) • 30 bedrooms

· buffet breakfast · 4-course evening meal with starter buffet once a week and regular salad buffet · weekly speciality dinners including meat fondue and raclette

All rooms have Austrian twin beds that can be separated, hairdryer, safe, TV and free WiFi. Extra charge for bathrobes.

Twin room (north-facing) - sleeps 2: twin beds, private shower and WC.

Twin room (south-facing) - sleeps 2: twin beds, private shower and bath, WC, and balcony or terrace.

Austrian twin beds
Austrian twin beds are very common in Central Europe. They’re simply one large bed frame containing two single mattresses, both with separate duvets and linen sets, that cannot be separated. Separate twin beds are less common and can often be head to head beds, rather than side by side, if they are available.