Seven things to check
- Which side is the view? Mountain views often face one side of the building only. Book the room type that names the view.
- Season dates: in the Alps and the Dolomites many hotels close in spring and late autumn.
- Car-free villages: in Zermatt and Wengen you arrive by train; in Banff you need a park pass.
- Half-board: breakfast and dinner included, common in the Alps and often good value.
- Distance to lifts and trailheads: a short walk saves an early drive or bus.
- Altitude: if you’re sensitive to altitude, sleep lower and take the cable car up for the day.
- Parking and charging: check before you arrive with a car.
Shoulder seasons: late June and September often offer good weather, open lifts and lower prices than July and August.
Where to start
BanffCanadian RockiesLakes, wildlifeRead guide
ZermattSwiss AlpsMatterhornRead guide
DolomitesItalian AlpsHikingRead guide
Frequently asked questions
What does ski-in/ski-out mean?
The hotel is next to a ski run, so you can ski to the door and leave on skis. Check the hotel's description and map; 'close to the lifts' isn't the same thing.
Are mountain hotels open all year?
Many in the Alps and the Dolomites close between seasons, roughly in spring and late autumn. In the Canadian Rockies most hotels stay open, but some lodges are seasonal.
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