Hotel Gisela, Bad Gastein, Austria

· 5 minutes' walk to town centre · 4-5 minutes' walk to Stubnerkogel ski lift and ski school meeting point · 2 minutes' walk to ski bus stop

Sitting proudly in the centre of Bad Gastein is the historic Hotel Gisela, built in 1883. The property was lovingly updated in the early 2000s, but has maintained many of its classical characteristics. The grand, white building, which nestles perfectly into its snowy surroundings, is a great base for no-fuss snow-seekers who enjoy good food and socialising.

The Gisela is conveniently placed close to both the Stubnerkogel ski lift - so early risers don’t have too much of a journey to the slopes - and the famous Felsentherme, for those guests who prefer a bit of downtime in the mountains. Nearby you’ll also find a selection of lively bars, like the Silver Bullet and Gatz Winebar, which are perfect picks for some après activities.

The hotel interiors are not fluffy or fancy, but are comfortable, cosy and satisfy their purpose - as a home away from home. The rooms are traditionally decorated, with big bathrooms and large windows, making your sleeping area bright and airy. You’ll also have great views over the village, which is definitely a bonus. If you fancy hanging out with your friends or family in the evenings, head over to the nearby Hotel Salzburgerhof for complimentary use of their games room and leisure facilities.

You’ll be on a half-board package at the Gisela, meaning an extensive and delicious buffet breakfast each morning, as well as a three-course meal in the evening. You’ll eat at the hotel’s onsite restaurant, kitted out like a traditional mountain Alm, with wood-cladded walls and beams across the slanted ceiling. Dinners consist of a choice of dishes, as well as a varied salad buffet - so you’re bound to enjoy every morsel of it.

Please note:

The lift is only to the 3rd floor, not to the 4th floor (top floor).
The entrance to the hotel is locked between 10pm and 6am - guests can enter using their key card.
Reception is open in the morning and afternoon/evening. When the reception is closed, guests can go to the Salzburgerhof reception, which is open 24 hours.

· ski room · heated boot rack · free WiFi · free use of games room, pool table, table tennis and kids' play area at the Salzburgerhof hotel · lift · 26 bedrooms

· hot and cold buffet breakfast · 3-course evening meals with daily salad buffet and choice of main course · Christmas and New Year's Eve gala meals included

Many Austrian hotels do not serve free tap water with meals.

All rooms have satellite TV with UK channels, free WiFi and hairdryer.

Twin Room - sleeps 2: Austrian twin beds, private bath or shower and WC.

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.