Celebrating Excellence in Ski Tourism 6 T H A N N UA L
2018 YEARBOOK
Kitzbühel
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A LEADER FOR DECADES – the LEITWOLF is not only a sports vehicle on snow for its design. 523 HP (390 kW) and the AUTOMATIC winch with a traction force of 4.5 t speak for themselves. The LEITWOLF owes its superior grooming capacity to a track width of 4.5 m. Thanks to the worldwide unique parallel movement of the POWER tiller and its excellent climbing ability, the LEITWOLF leaves behind the perfect slope on any terrain. The LEITWOLF is the leader not only in performance, but it is also the best-in-class for its low consumption.
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THE BIG JOHN
THE LEGEND
JOHANN SCHEIBLHOFER
ERICH SCHEIBLHOFER
we are the wine With the most hours of sunshine and the highest temperature peaks Andau is known as hottest spot of Austria. Given this in combination with the mineral gravel soils, ideal conditions for ripe and full-bodied wines are given. Already Johann Scheiblhofer, founder of the winery, was well-known for his high-quality wines. His son, Erich Scheiblhofer, attracts a lot of attention with his distinctive stylistic wines these days. After his training as Viticulture Master, certified Winemanager and international oenologist, Erich Scheiblhofer gained practical experience in California and Australia. He created a new wine line with the goal of full-bodied and opulent red wines with great potential. The first vintage of these wines was 2000. Even before that, father and son created their most famous cuvée “Big John”, which means a homage to his father for Erich. It is the type of wine Johann likes the most, dark colored, full-bodied, perfect drinking joy and great potential. Thanks to its well-established teams in the spacious tasting rooms, which invite you 7 days a week to free tastings, Erich can devote to the cellar, which demands a lot of attention with its 3000 oak barrels. With around 70 hectares own area in the best locations in Andau the winery is one of the bigger ones in Burgenland. A positive attitude in combination with making wine with pleasure create a unique atmosphere at the winery. This is what makes it worth a visit.
WEINGUT SCHEIBLHOFER Halbturnerstraße 1a | AT-7163 Andau | TEL +43 (0)2176 2610 | E-MAIL office@ scheiblhofer.at
WELCOME TO THE WORLD SKI AWARDS 2018 AT A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL of the year, and the most valuable and prestigious programme in the industry. We, therefore, take our responsibility as guardians of standards within the ski sector extremely seriously. We have worked tirelessly to ensure only the elite of the global industry are represented each year.
A heartfelt welcome and “servus” to you all as we celebrate the 6th annual World Ski Awards and ski tourism’s event of the year. The seniority of attendance – reflecting many of the industry’s leading global figureheads, decision-makers and key innovators – is without precedence. Please be sure to make the most of your time in Kitzbühel and engage with your peers to exchange knowledge, ideas and best practice principles. The World Ski Awards is the only time that our world comes together, and together we can ensure that our industry develops, grows and prospers. Tonight’s event marks the culmination of a year-long search for myself and our international organisation. It has been a thrilling journey, as we explore the global ski hospitality industry in pursuit of the very best resorts, hotels, chalets and tour operators, travel agents and ski businesses. These have been put before the voters, both from within the industry and the wider ski community, with the leaders among them set to be recognised here in Kitzbühel. World Ski Awards is now globally recognised as both ski tourism’s event
Back in 2013, our first event was staged in response to a demand from the ski industry for a programme that was fair and transparent; a programme with a mission to serve as the definitive benchmark of excellence, and to help to foster a new era of development and growth within ski tourism. World Ski Awards is that programme. Our 6th annual event has seen the World Ski Awards positioning as the only global awards programme to celebrate the pinnacle of the winter sports hospitality industry, and the most valuable and prestigious accolades in the industry, firmly cemented. Over the course of the last six years we have been inundated with humbling reports from many of our winners detailing how their World Ski Awards triumph has directly contributed to greater consumer confidence, has raised ski arrival numbers, increased hotel and chalet occupancy and bolstered revenues. But none of this would be possible without the generous support of our partners and supporters. In particular, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our fabulous Host Hotel – A-ROSA Kitzbühel, and to our Premier Partners – LEITNER Ropeways, PRINOTH, DEMACLENKO, Kitzbühel Tourism, Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel and KitzSki. Also, to the very generous support of our Supporting Partners – Sportalm, Scheiblhofer and Rass & Dorner.
Unfortunately this year’s event is also tinged with sadness. Last year we presented the World Ski Awards Academy Award for Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism to Hans Grimus, a pioneer in the Australian ski industry and a great friend to many here in Austria and throughout the world of ski. Sadly, Hans passed from this world earlier this year, but his memory will live on as one of our industry’s true greats and an on-going inspiration down the generations. And in recent weeks, the sad news has also reached us that another great friend of the World Ski Awards family has passed away. William Wargniez has been central to Val Thorens’ rise to greatness and an indefatigable figure in the wider ski community. William will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. All that is left to say is that I hope that the World Ski Awards continues its journey as a power of good to this fabulous industry of ours: a ski tourism industry which gives employment, prosperity and enjoyment to so many people in all corners of the world. And we have no doubt that ALL the 2018 winners will drive up standards within the ski industry by acting as individual examples of excellence and together raising the collective benchmark. Please make the most of ski tourism’s event of the year which we dedicate to the memories of Hans Grimus and William Wargniez. Sion Rapson Managing Director, World Ski Awards
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Where your time turns into the best of times.
Kitzbühel A-ROSA Kitzbühel, Ried Kaps 7, 6370 Kitzbühel, Austria DSR Hotel Holding GmbH, Lange Strasse 1a, 18055 Rostock, www.a-rosa.at
WELCOME TO A-ROSA KITZBÜHEL! Returning for yet another year, we are honoured to host the World Ski Awards in Kitzbühel for the sixth year in a row. As a passionate skier, I am thrilled to welcome you all back to the A-ROSA Kitzbühel. It’s no wonder that Kitzbühel is a legend. Nowhere else you will find such an unbeatable combination of urban lifestyle, authentic Tyrolean tradition and rich ski racing heritage – and the passion for Alpine ski racing is still celebrated here each year. Over the years, many attendees to the World Ski Awards have turned into friends. Avid skiers from every corner of the globe gather here at the A-ROSA each year – coming from Argentina, the United States of America or from Val Thorens in France, to name but a few… It’s a huge and friendly community of skiers, full of fascinating, openminded and sporty personalities who have embraced a very special lifestyle. They take every effort to join this great event year after year. The World Ski Awards recognise, reward and celebrate excellence in the ski tourism industry – and we are happy to be the sophisticated yet casual place where the World Ski Awards winners are unveiled. We wish you a wonderful stay here at A-ROSA Kitzbühel and great experiences for magic memories! Uwe Schramm General Manager A-ROSA Kitzbühel
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Foto: Michael Werlberger © Kitzbühel-Schriftzug-Design: Alfons Walde 1933/VKB Wien
Kitzbühel, 365 days of Alpine lifestyle Regardless of the season, the most legendary city of sports in the Alps is a magnet for visitors with its beauty and diversity. Austria's Best Ski Resort 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017
Official Partner
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DEAR SKI COMMUNITY With great pleasure, I welcome you to the 6th annual World Ski Awards in Kitzbühel. This year we present you our landscape still green and with wonderful coloured leaves. You can appreciate how beautiful it is in summer. But our passion is winter and ski sports. Kitzbühel represents one of the world’s best skiing destinations according to World Ski Awards. You can experience this despite the mountains still being green. We started the ski season on 19th October, made possible by Bergbahn Kitzbühel through snow farming. It is not least for their innovative procedures with utmost technical standards, but always with security and environment in mind, that has earned them the award for World’s Best Ski Resort Company five times. Right now, there are of course only a few slopes open, but soon it will be 57 lifts and 230km of groomed pistes, besides wonderful off-piste skiing and a lot of other possibilities. So I do hope, your stay in Kitzbühel will give you inspiration, good conversations with colleagues and be rewarding besides the great event of the World Ski Awards. We are delighted to host this very important event for the ski industry and have all those excellent people come to our town. Thanks to Sion, who is the initiator and most perfect manager. Also thank you all for keeping skiing one of the most wonderful things. Now I wish you a pleasant stay in Kitzbühel with its tradition of skiing since 125 years. Sincerely yours, Signe Reisch President, Kitzbühel Tourism
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VAL THORENS LEADS WINNERS AT WORLD SKI AWARDS 2017 A-ROSA Kitzbühel has been the home of World Ski Awards since its inauguration
Val Thorens took the title of World’s Best Ski Resort during the 5th annual World Ski Awards. Here we look back at the top stories from last year’s event
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Attendees were offered a chance to ski the famous Hahnenkamm
The legendary French resort - the highest resort in Europe - was the big winner at ski tourism's event of the year which took place at the five-star A-ROSA Kitzbühel for the fifth consecutive year in 2017, welcoming the elite of the ski hospitality industry to Austria. Also among the winners was the W Verbier. The W’s first alpine and ski resort in Switzerland walked away with the title of World's Best Ski Hotel. Elsewhere Chalet Les Anges, Zermatt - created by the worldfamous interior designer, Magali de Tscharner - took the title of World’s Best Ski Chalet, while The Vale Niseko was voted World’s Best Ski Boutique Hotel. Sun Web scooped the trophy for World’s Best Ski Tour Operator, with Leo Trippi named World’s Best Ski Travel Agent.
Bansko was recognised as Bulgaria’s Best Ski Resort last year
Industry leaders gather for the 5th annual World Ski Awards in Kitzbühel
In a first for World Ski Awards, Rocksresort - whose stone buildings are heated with entirely renewable biomass energy - was voted World's Best Green Ski Hotel. Bergbahn AG Kitzbuhel was also honoured during the red-carpet event, taking the title of World’s Best Ski Resort Company, while Bella Coola Heli Sports was recognised as World’s Best Heli-Ski Operator and Ski-Lifts picked up the award for World’s Best Ski Transfer Operator. Meanwhile, LAAX was celebrating having been recognised by voters as World’s Best Freestyle Resort, while Ski Dubai scooped the trophy for Best Indoor Ski Resort. Two of the night’s biggest winners were Fahrenheit Seven and Alpaca. Hip design-led hotel, Fahrenheit Seven, collected the trophy for World’s Best New Ski Hotel while Alpaca, in the French resort of Méribel, was recognised as World’s Best New Ski Chalet.
Leo Trippi was honoured with the title of World’s Best Ski Travel Agent
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KitzbĂźhel was named Austria's Best Ski Resort
World Ski Awards afforded plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes
The elite of the global ski tourism industry was in town for the event
Val Thorens took the title of World’s Best Ski Resort in 2017
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An extensive programme of events took place over the weekend, seeing guests invited to engage in three days of exclusive networking events, private skiing, sightseeing tours and a host of other VIP activities. World Ski Awards Managing Director, Sion Rapson, said: “The World Ski Awards 2017 has been our most successful to date, firmly cementing our position as the global benchmark for ski hospitality. It was a pleasure to recognise so many industry leaders and I hope their recognition, both by their peers and members of public ski community, will inspire them to aim ever higher in the pursuit of excellence.” In a unique presentation, the World Ski Awards Academy honoured ski industry stalwart, Hans Grimus, with the title of Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism. The native Austrian, who left his homeland for Australia 56 years ago, was instrumental in constructing the first lifts on Mt Buller - a resort village in eastern Victoria, Australia - as well as building his eponymous hotel.
Guests at the Cocktail Reception
M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N Voting for the 2017 Gala Ceremony resulted in a record number of ballots cast by leading ski tourism professionals. These were tallied alongside the votes of hundreds of thousands of ski consumers from around the world, with the winners revealed earlier this evening at A-ROSA Kitzbühel.
World Ski Awards returned to Kitzbühel in 2017
Find a full list of World Ski Awards winners on the official website at worldskiawards.com.
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KitzbĂźhel
Make Kitzbühel your First Stop. Nestled between the Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains, the region Kitzbühel features almost unlimited options for a fun and active stay. Kitzbühel is a synonym for passion, one that gives rise to an unmistakable way of life, as these mountains inspire adventures that beg to be experienced! The legend in the Alps. The most legendary city of sports in the Alps is an attractive and multi-faceted destination for all seasons. In summer and winter alike, Kitzbühel boasts a unique charm and an unmistakable blend of tradition, legend and idyllic landscape.
Kitzbühel has more to offer. There are a range of other activities, such as tobogganing, winter hiking and snowshoe hiking, romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides and simply strolling through the picturesque town centre, which offer a welcome alternative for those who haven’t come to the “Gamsstadt” of Kitzbühel simply for the skiing. The “Gamsstadt” is an enchanting place, featuring a medieval city centre that is both cosmopolitan and conscious of tradition. You can enjoy typical Tirolean hospitality in the alleys of the old town, which dates back over 700 years. The culinary offerings range from rustic local fare to international haute cuisine.
125 years of successful skiing history. It was Franz Reisch who left the first tracks in the snow on the Kitzbüheler Horn in 1893, triggering a full-on skiing boom. Today, Kitzbühel stands for pure skiing pleasure, with powder runs, mogul slopes, steep northern faces and delightful sunny slopes. The 68 slopes featuring 185 kilometres of pistes offer something for skiers of all abilities. There are also 13 marked ski routes with a total length of 41 kilometres and enthralling options for freeriders. A name. A concept. A legend. Streif! The most spectacular downhill run in the world can be used for hiking in summer and for skiing in winter. However, anyone wanting to follow in the footsteps of the world’s best skiers should be a very experienced skier themselves. The main sections of the Streif racing piste, such as the Mausefalle and Hausbergkante, are classified as “extremely difficult ski runs”.
Foto: Michael Werlberger, Markus Mitterer © Kitzbühel-Schriftzug-Design: Alfons Walde 1933/VKB Wien
Hence, Kitzbühel is famed far beyond the provincial borders as a winter destination boasting tradition and extraordinary charm. Around Christmas time, the region takes on the character of a winter fairy tale. December is a particularly atmospheric time of year thanks to the Kitzbühel Advent,
The lovingly arranged Christmas Market fits perfectly with the picturesque winter backdrop of the town centre. The scent of hot roasted chestnuts and fruit punch fills the air. Festive music and the heartening sound of children’s laughter can be heard all around. It is a time when everyday stress fades away, to be replaced by a sense of harmony and calm. The Kitzbühel Advent runs from 28th November to 26th December, providing a tranquil setting for the most magical time of the year. There is a huge variety of options available at over 30 stands, ranging from regional culinary delicacies to genuine handcrafts. Kitzbühel is unique. It is not just the view of the imposing mountain backdrop that defines the way of life in Kitzbühel. Instead, this is formed by an unmistakable combination of a unique ambience, typical Tirolean hospitality and the wide range of delights on offer.
The calendar of events boasts top-quality attractions including traditional sporting events, classical music, catchy music festivals and film festivals. The winter events range from the magical Kitzbühel Advent to the Snow Polo World Cup and the legendary Hahnenkamm Races.
where young and old alike are filled with a sense of wonder throughout the festive season!
Everything you need to know about Kitzbühel and the surrounding area is available at www.kitzbuehel.com
Christmas like it used to be. With Christmas decorations draped across the historic town centre and a dusting of winter snow, Kitzbühel brings back happy childhood memories. As a sense of calm descends on the historic town centre in the run up to Christmas, nostalgia and tradition are writ large. That’s just the way it should be – a tranquil experience for both guests and locals!
Our team at Kitzbühel Tourismus will be pleased to assist you for your individual vacation planning via: servus@kitzbuehel.com or +43 (0)5356 66 660.
Don’t dream it, book it. booking.kitzbuehel.com
Celebrating Excellence in Ski Tourism
WORLD SKI ™ AWARDS WINNER WALL PLAQUE Receiving a World Ski Award™ is a world-class achievement that provides you, the Winner, with the ideal marketing tool to promote your winning products and services ahead of your competitors. OPTIONS
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SHIPPING The Winner Wall Plaque is made to order. Delivery can be expected approximately six weeks from receipt of payment.
ORDER NOW Contact your World Ski Awards™ contact or contact us by: Email: awards@worldskiawards.com Phone: +44 (0) 20 7925 0000
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NEW LEITNER ROPEWAYS PROJECTS WOW SKIERS IN KITZBÜHEL
In the ski resort of Kitzbühel winter sports enthusiasts can experience a perfect combination of elegant design, comfort and safety In December, two new modern ropeways built by LEITNER ropeways will enter operation in the famous ski area on the Kitzbüheler Horn. Hence, two old installations, which were already 30 and 50 years old, have been modernised. The new premium chairs of the Brunelle chairlift, with bubbles and real leather paddings, convey the feeling of luxury. Furthermore, the ride becomes significantly faster; you will now achieve the summit area within four minutes instead of eight. Design elements and expert knowledge from the world of automotive engineering were woven into the development of the LEITNER Premium Chair. The single seats feature an ergonomic design and high-quality real leather upholstery. Both the chairs and the bubbles can be individually kitted out in the colours of the ski resort. They also come with integrated seat heating, so no one will have to suffer the cold even on icy days.
The shorter journey time is also an advantage of the modern ten-passenger Raintal cabin. Thanks to this gondola lift passengers will save two-thirds of the previous journey time. The installation is equipped with modern cabins named Symphony 10, the visible and noticeable expression of a new generation of ropeways. From the minute passengers board until they leave the cabin, the Symphony 10 cabin offers top comfort and design. Among other features are the wide boarding area for increased convenience and the panoramic windows for the most impressive views. LEITNER ropeways has also made the seats wide, boosting individual passenger comfort and creating more personal space. In keeping with the design, the premium cabin features automotivestyle seats in genuine leather.
WO R L D S K I AWA R D S World Ski Awards will return to Kitzbühel this year for the 6th annual Gala Ceremony. A-ROSA Kitzbühel will welcome industry leaders from across the globe for a three-day programme of unrivalled networking events, dinners, and exclusive ski experience activities. The highlight of the event will be the red-carpet Gala Ceremony itself when the World Ski Awards winners will be unveiled. LEITNER ropeways is, together with PRINOTH and DEMACLENKO, one of the partners of the World Ski Awards. Find more information at www. leitner-ropeways.com.
The station coverings of both new installations bear the hallmark of the Italian design firm Pininfarina.
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KitzbĂźhel's uniqueness:
Skiing enthusiasm from the peak to the town center!
www.kitzski.at
st Ski Resort Company World‘s Be
WORLD SKI AWARDS SPOTLIGHT ON:
EUROPE
With Leo Trippi bringing Chesa el Toula to market and Chalet On The Rocks opening in Chamonix, there are plenty of new destinations for discerning skiers to explore this winter Chalet On The Rocks, a brandnew chalet, has joined Chamonix’s stylish scene for the upcoming winter ski season. Steering away from the traditional log-cabin look and aiming for the fashionable ski-set, Chalet On The Rocks was created by Cedric Hanisch. His passion for interiors and love of the mountains has achieved a chalet that exudes sophistication. Incredibly stylish, Chalet On The Rocks is set on a hill above the valley, providing the most amazing unobstructed views of Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Midi and Glacier des Bossons.
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Chalet On The Rocks sleeps 11 in five bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, and offers two living areas, three balconies, a sauna and the best-placed jacuzzi in the Alps! The location is ideal for families, groups of friends or even a small group of corporates looking for a high-end mountain retreat. Drawing on Chamonix’s dramatic landscape, Hanisch’s goal was to create a home that combined tradition with modernism. Working closely with the architect, his desire for radical geometries and minimalism represent his own personal choice, yet at the
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same time aims to give the styleconscious cognoscenti a designer feel, which still very much respects the Alps, conveying an opulent yet distinguished mountainside ambience. Featuring a bold and minimalist interior design, three dramatic fixed clamped steel frames eliminate the need for interior walls. This provides a vast open space surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows which offer breath-taking mountain views, giving guests the feeling the landscape is incorporated into the interior of the chalet. The main area is beautifully lit with low-hanging lights,
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while well-lit drop lights hang over a bar. Bedrooms define the essence of mountain chic. Heated dark hardwood floors contrast with charcoal grey wood furniture and crisp fresh white bedding. Chalet On The Rocks is a three-minute drive to the Brevent or Aiguille du Midi lifts and close to Chamonix Centre-Ville.
CHESA EL TOULA Luxury ski specialist Leo Trippi has announced the launch of Chesa el Toula, in Suvretta, St. Moritz. Brand new for the 2018/2019 ski season, Chesa el Toula is one of St. Moritz’s most elite properties and is exclusive to Leo Trippi. The chalet offers an unrivalled spa, as well as spacious living and entertainment facilities ideal for parties of family and friends. Originally built by the owner’s grandfather, the chalet has been in the family for two generations. Now fully renovated, Chesa el Toula offers 900m² of living space over five floors to accommodate up to ten adults and two children. The utmost attention to detail has been paid to each aspect of the chalet, celebrating traditional Engadin features and enhancing them with the finest materials from Italian stone and rich marble to the most exquisitely crafted furnishings. This includes bespoke, oneoff pieces sourced from global designers including Le Corbusier, Rugiero, Casa Milano and Porta Romana.
Six en-suite bedrooms offer plenty of space for guests, from a beautiful mastersuite featuring a dressing room and a bathroom nestled in the wooden eaves, to an inviting bunk bedroom perfect for children. There are three further double bedrooms with ensuite bath or shower and a fun bunk room featuring king-sized beds. An additional bedroom with shower-room is available for staff. The accommodation at Chesa el Toula is further complemented by stylish yet relaxed living space. A luxurious living room offers a large fireplace and flat screen TV (perfect to curl up in front of on a cold day), while the bar is the place for a warming tipple. A family-kitchen outfitted with topspecification equipment, breakfast nook and a sophisticated dining room for ten guests is designed for meals shared with loved ones. There is also a separate, full-equipped professional kitchen. Extensive spa and well-being facilities make Chesa el Toula unique in St. Moritz, including a swimming pool rarely found in the region. After a long day on the slopes, soothe aching muscles in the indoor and outdoor hot tubs, enjoy a steam in the hammam or work out in the well-equipped gym. The chalet is located just a two-minute drive from the nearest ski lift, easily reached by use of a Heritage Land Rover Defender driven by the chalet manager.
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Where the “Streif” myth W W W. R A S M U S H O F. AT
Foto Michael Werlberger
truly comes alive Austria's Austria’s BestSki Ski Boutique Best Boutique Hotel Hotel
EUROPE ANDORRA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Grau Roig Hotel Palomé Hotel The Xalet Bringué Hotel & Spa ANDORRA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Chalet Motxo Els Llacs Neilson Chalet Hotel Casale ANDORRA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Holiday Inn Andorra Hotel Hotel Himalaia Soldeu Hotel Nordic Hotel Plaza Hotel Princesa Parc Sport Hotel Hermitage & Spa The Bringué Hotel ANDORRA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Grandvalira Vallnord
AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Aurelio Lech Elizabeth Art Hotel Hotel Madlein Hotel Rasmushof Kitzbühel Hotel Tannenhof Kristiania Lech Severin*s St Antoner Hof Thurnher's Alpenhof AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Aurelio Club Chalet Chalet Bluebird, St Anton Chalet Laurus Chalet-N, Lech Eden Rock
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Hahnenkamm Lodge House Hannes Schneider, Stuben Maierl-Alm The Chalet, at 11° East Tschoder Überhaus Villa Schönbichl AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 A-ROSA Kitzbühel Arlberg Hospiz Hotel Bio-Hotel Stanglwirt Hotel Almhof Schneider Hotel Arlberg Hotel Cervosa Hotel Salzburgerhof Kaiserhof Kitzbühel Kempinski Hotel Das Tirol SPA-HOTEL Jagdhof Top Hotel Hochgurgl AUSTRIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 arlberg1800 RESORT Ischgl Kitzbühel Lech Zürs am Arlberg Mayrhofen-Hippach Obergurgl-Hochgurgl Saalbach-Hinterglemm SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser - Brixental St. Anton am Arlberg
BULGARIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Alpin Hotel Boutique Hotel Iva & Elena Club Hotel Yanakiev Ice Angels Hotel BULGARIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Chalet Jora Chalet Mila Villa Gella Villa Stresov
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BULGARIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Festa Winter Palace Hotel Orlovetz Hotel Rila Borovets Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena Bansko Lucky Bankso Premier Luxury Mountain Resort Regnum Bansko Apart Hotel & Spa Yastrebets Hotel Wellness & Spa BULGARIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Bansko Borovets Pamporovo Vitosha
CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Grund Resort Golf & Ski Hotel Bedriska Hotel Praha Hotel Savoy Hotel Sněžka CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Clarion Hotel Spindleruv Mlyn Harmony Club Hotel Hotel Horizont Orea Resort Horal CZECH REPUBLIC'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Pec pod Sněžkou Ski Areál Herlíkovice – Bubákov Ski Areál Ještěd Ski Areál Kopřivná Ski Areál Kouty Skiareál Lipno Skiareál Špindlerův Mlýn Spartak Rokytnice Špičák - Železná Ruda Sportovní Areál Harrachov
FINLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Arctic Lakeside Hotel Rukan Kaarna Chalet Ruka Peak Hotel Iso-Syöte Hotel Ylläshumina RukaVillage Ski-Inn Hotel & Apartments Seita Holiday Resort FINLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Fjell Top Cottages Rukan Salonki Chalets FINLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Break Sokos Hotel Levi Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki Holiday Club Ylläs Saaga Hotel Cumulus Resort Rukahovi Hotel Pikku-Syöte Hotelli Hullu Poro Ruka Ski Chalets ApartmentHotel FINLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Levi Pyhä Ruka Salla Ski Resort Iso-Syöte Yllas
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SKI FINALISTS 2018
FRANCE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Aman Le Mélézin Cheval Blanc Grandes Alpes Private Hotel & Spa Hotel des Dromonts Hotel Le K2 Hotel Manali Hotel Pashmina Le Chalet Zannier Le Kaila Le Taos Portetta Hotel Villa Rose FRANCE'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Alpaca Barmettes Chalet Atlantique Chalet Couttet Chalet Dalmore Chalet Edelweiss, Courchevel 1850 Chalet Grande Corniche, Les Gets Chalet Jejalp, Morzine Chalet La Bergerie Chalet La Colombe Chalet Le Petit Chateau, Courchevel Chalet Marco Polo, Val d’Isere Chalet Mont Tremblant, Meribel Chalet Quezac Chalet Rêves de Montagne Chalet Valentine La Datcha Val Thorens Le Chardon Mountain Lodges Lodge SHL Rock n’ Love Shemshak Lodge, Courchevel The Ecurie
FRANCE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Altapura Club Med Val Thorens Sensations Fahrenheit Seven Val Thorens Hotel Christiana Hotel Les Airelles Hotel Terminal Neige - Totem Le Blizzard Le Lana Le Palace des Neiges Les Barmes de L'Ours L’Apogée Courchevel The Taj-I Mah FRANCE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Avoriaz 1800 Chamonix Mont-Blanc Courchevel La Plagne Les 2 Alpes Les Arcs Megeve Méribel Serre Chevalier Tignes Val d'Isère Val Thorens Valloire
GERMANY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Atlas Posthotel Hotel Sonne Füssen Hotel Staudacherhof Hotel Zugspitze GERMANY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Chalet Haus Hamburg Country Home Pitzner Country House Staudacherhof Moarhof anno 1665
GERMANY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Alpenhof Murnau Hotel Das Kranzbach Dorint Sporthotel GarmischPartenkirchen Hotel Exquisit Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden Reindl´s Partenkirchner Hof Schloss Elmau GERMANY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Berchtesgaden Garmisch-Partenkirchen Oberstdorf Spitzingsee-Tegernsee Willingen-Upland
ITALY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Adler Mountain Lodge Hotel Adler Dolomiti Hotel Chalet del Sogno Hotel Col Alto Hotel Hermitage Spa & Beauty Lagació Hotel Mountain Residence Olimpionico Hotel Saint Hubertus Resort Luxury Hotel & Spa San Luis Hotel ITALY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Chalet Être Chalet la Petitta Chalet lo Miéte White Deer, San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge ITALY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Alpenpalace Deluxe Hotel & Spa Resort Alpin Royal Cristallo, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cortina d’Ampezzo
Grand Hotel Savoia Hotel Andreus Hotel Sassongher Miramonti Majestic Grand Hotel Montana Lodge & Spa QC Terme Bagni di Bormio ITALY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Cervino Ski Paradise Cortina d’Ampezzo Courmayeur Mont Blanc DOLOMITES Val Gardena Madonna di Campiglio Seiser Alm Sestriere
NORWAY'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Herangtunet Boutique Hotel Juvet Landscape Hotel Nermo Hotell Skarsnuten Hotel Storfjord Hotel NORWAY'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Havsdalsgrenda Lyngen Lodge Summit to Sea Skjelbreid Poirée NORWAY'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Dr Holms Hotel Fleischer's Hotel Norefjell Ski & Spa Radisson Blu Resort Trysil Thon Hotel Skeikampen Vestlia Resort Geilo NORWAY'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Geilo Hafjell Hemsedal Hovden Norefjell Trysil
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EUROPE POLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Hotel ART&SPA Zakopane Hotel Crocus Hotel Skalny Hotel Zabala
RUSSIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Gorky Hotel Grand Hotel & Spa Rodina Peak Hotel Sport Inn Hotel
POLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Aries Hotel & Spa Grand Hotel Stamary Hotel Bania Thermal & Ski Hotel Belvedere Hotel Czarny Potok Resort & SPA Hotel Grand Nosalowy Dwór
RUSSIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Grand Hotel Polyana Mercure Rosa Khutor Park Inn by Radisson Rosa Khutor Radisson Hotel Rosa Khutor Radisson Lazurnaya Hotel Rixos Krasnaya Polyana Sochi Rosa Ski Inn Hotel Rosa Springs Sochi Marriott Krasnaya Polyana Hotel Swissotel Resort Sochi Kamelia Tulip Inn Rosa Khutor
POLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Czarna Góra Czorsztyn-Kluszkowce Dwie Doliny Jaworzyna Krynicka Karpacz – Śnieżka Korbielów – Pilsko Kotelnica Bialczańska Krynica Lysa Gora Szczyrk Szklarska Poręba – Szrenica
ROMANIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Arena Platos Paltinis Azuga Poiana Brașov Predeal Ranka Sinaia Straja Vatra Dornei Vidra Transalpina
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RUSSIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 All Season Resort Gorky Gorod Mount Cheget Mount Elbrus Rosa Khutor Zavjalikha
SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Hotel FIS Jasná Hotel Liptovský Dvor Hotel Mikulasska Chata Hotel Tri Studničky SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Grand Hotel Kempinski Grand Hotel Praha Grandhotel Starý Smokovec Hotel Patria
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SLOVAKIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Jasná Nízke Tatry PARK SNOW Donovaly Ski Bachledova SKI PARK Kubínska hoľa Ski Park Ružomberok – Malinô Brdo Snow Paradise Veľká Rača Oščadnica Štrbské Pleso Tatranská Lomnica Vrátna Free Time Zone Winter Park Martinky
SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Alpska perla Hotel Krvavec Skipass Hotel Šport hotel Pokljuka SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Chalet Planina Ruška Koča Tilnik Farm SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Hotel Arena Hotel Golte Hotel Natura Ramada Resort Kranjska Gora SLOVENIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Cerkno Golte Kranjska Gora Krvavec Mariborsko Pohorje Rogla Vogel
SPAIN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 El Lodge Hotel Chalet Val de Ruda Hotel La Morera La Almunia del Valle Meliá Royal Tanau Boutique Hotel SPAIN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 AC Baqueira Ski Resort Fun Aragon Hills Hotel & Spa HG Alto Aragón Hotel Himàlaia Baqueira Hotel La Pleta Hotel Val de Neu Meliá Sol y Nieve Parador de Artíes SPAIN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Aramón Cerler Aramón Formigal Astún Baqueira/Beret BOÍ TAÜLL Candanchú Masella Ski Resort Sierra Nevada
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SKI FINALISTS 2018
SWEDEN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Buustamons Fjällgård Fjällnäs Hotel Granen Hotell Fjällgården Åre SWEDEN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Åre Timberlodge Skutan Ski Lodge The Villa - Copperhill Private Lodge SWEDEN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Copperhill Mountain Lodge Holiday Club Åre Hotel Åregården Tott Hotel SWEDEN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Åre Bjorkliden Branäs Funäsfjällen Hemavan Tärnaby Riksgransen Sälen Vemdalen
SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Backstage Hotel Vernissage Chalet d'Adrien Hotel Firefly Hotel Guarda Golf Hotel Paradies Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad Matterhorn Focus Rixos Flüela Davos Romantik Hotel Chesa Grischuna The Omnia SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 7 Heavens Chalet Aconcagua Chalet Les Anges, Zermatt Chalet Milou Chalet Zermatt Peak Chesetta, St Moritz Etoiles de Montagne Haus Alpina Hidden Dragon The Lodge, Verbier Tivoli Lodge, Davos
SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Badrutt's Palace Carlton Hotel St Moritz Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa Grand Hotel Zermatterhof Gstaad Palace InterContinental Davos Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains Kulm Hotel St Moritz Mont Cervin Palace Nira Alpina Reffelalp Resort The Alpina Gstaad The Cambrian, Adelboden The Chedi Andermatt Tschuggen Grand Hotel W Verbier SWITZERLAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Davos Klosters Engelberg Gstaad LAAX Saas Fee St Moritz Verbier Wengen Zermatt
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ITALIAN HOSPITALITY COLLECTION MARKS FIRST SKI VENTURE WITH FIVE-STAR HOTEL IN COURMAYEUR
A luxurious new ski hotel is set to open in the Italian ski resort of Courmayeur for the new winter season. Le Massif, a five-star ski hotel, and La Loge du Massif, a slope-side restaurant with kids club set apart from the hotel, will make their alpine debut in December 2018. The property will represent Italian Hospitality Collection’s first ski venture. Le Massif, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, will house 80 rooms and suites, a world-class spa, a private, in-house ski concierge, two on-site restaurants including a gourmet steakhouse and all-daydining family restaurant, two bars, a ski room, kids club and baby-sitting services, while guests of the hotel will have priority access to the slope side destination restaurant and club, La Loge du Massif. The five-star hotel will be conveniently located in the centre of the village, a
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stone’s throw from both the resort cable car and the village’s most fashionable boutiques and vibrant nightlife. In contrast, La Loge du Massif bar and restaurant at Checrouit will be an enchanting mountain chalet located in the heart of the ski slopes, ready to welcome skiers in for morning drinks, lunch, après-ski and dinners. The bar and restaurant will serve traditional Italian food in a cosy setting and will offer commanding views of the Mont Blanc from its expansive terrace. A kids-club and ski-room will be available exclusively for guests of Le Massif hotel to relax and recharge throughout the day. Le Massif will offer a luxurious mountain refuge for skiers and non-skiers alike. The surrounding slopes provide a range of pistes to suit all abilities, while highadrenaline activities including heli-skiing
and para-skiing will delight thrill-seekers. Year round, world-class hiking, golfing and cycling are ideal ways to switch off, get fit and enjoy the scenic landscape. Le Massif will be well set-up for families looking for a care-free holiday, with two all-inclusive packages available for children. Little VIPs will enjoy exciting days both outdoors and in the two mini-clubs at the hotel and La Loge. In an exciting period of growth for the award-winning hotel collection, Le Massif will join the Italian Hospitality Collection’s portfolio, which includes Chia Laguna resort in Sardinia and the renowned thermal spa hotels Grotta Giusti, Bagni di Pisa and Fonteverde in Tuscany. For more information visit: www.lemassifcourmayeur.com.
PASSION IS A UNIQUE
EXPERIENCE .
HOTEL LE MASSIF, DECEMBER 2018.
Life is full of unique moments that are simply perfect. Like when a passion for top-class Italian lifestyle creates a new concept of hospitality. When a sophisticated hotel and a wonderful ski lodge on the slopes of Mont Blanc become one and the same. When a multitude of services guarantees an unforgettable holiday for the entire family. Live for the moment, with us.
Rass & Dorner GmbH • Paß-Thurn-Straße 21 • A-6372 Oberndorf / Kitzbühel Tel. +43 (0) 5356 / 666 89 • info@specialevents.at • www.specialevents.at
FULL-SERVICE CONCEPT AUDIO LIGHTING MULTIMEDIA STAGING
First shareholder
Minority stake
WORLD LEADER
IN MOUNTAIN AREA DEVELOPMENT & OPERATION
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OF THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS SKI RESORTS
TURNOVER 14M OF SKIER DAYS €429M IN SKI ACTIVITY 4,700 EMPLOYEES IN 9 COUNTRIES
UNIQUE KNOW-HOW & EXPERTISE
SUSTAINABLE & PROFITABLE YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN RESORTS
A WIDE RANGE OF CONSULTING SERVICES PROVIDED BY CDA MANAGEMENT DEFINE SITE CONCEPT AND POSITIONING ACCORDING TO LOCAL MARKET REQUIREMENTS
MASTER PLANNING
DESIGN SITE MASTER PLAN AND BUSINESS PLAN
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO CONSTRUCTION
ASSIST IN CONDUCTING THE CONSTRUCTION WORKS
PREPARE SITE OPENING
SITE MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE
CO-MANAGE THE SITE TO OPTIMIZE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AND SECURITY
• Full concept development • Master-plan design: - Ski-lifts, slopes, terrain parks, snow-making, security for ski areas - Entrance, attractions, shows, F&B & retail outlets for Leisure parks • Detailed business plan • Detailed project roadmap • Calls for proposal, selection and management of providers • Construction daily support, monitoring of budget and planning
• Detailed organization • Operating procedures definition and implementation • Recruitment and training • Marketing, sales and PR plan for the launch
• • • •
Daily operation management and maintenance Monitoring of additional development to increase attractiveness Marketing & sales action plan HR, finance, administrative and legal management
Compagnie des Alpes 2018 Crédits photos : ©Andy Parant © les Arcs - ©www.stefcande.com
“GO LIVE” PREPARATION
• Market research: catchment area, competition, customer expectations, potential of the site • First concept development: target groups, positioning • First economical and technical feasibility study
CDA Management is a subsidiary of CDA Group
SITE CONCEPT AND POSITIONING
Visit our website: www.compagniedesalpes.com Contact us! Jean-Marc FARINI +33 6 12 68 20 93 / jean-marc.farini@compagniedesalpes.fr
WORLD SKI AWARDS SPOTLIGHT ON:
NORTH AMERICA
With The Josie opening in Rossland and Hotel Talisa taking the Luxury Collection into the ski sector for the first time, North America is gearing up for its biggest season yet
The Josie Hotel, a Noble House Hotels & Resorts property in partnership with William Cole Companies, is set to open its doors on November 28th, transforming Rossland into one of North America’s major ski destinations. Located in Rossland, British Columbia, The Josie is the region’s first boutique hotel of its kind and a true ski-in, ski-out property, providing luxury accommodation and an authentic mountain experience, just a few steps from Red Mountain Resort’s slopes. The new destination hotel, named after one of the town’s most notable mines, the Josie Mine, is situated at the base of Red, and the first stop along Canada’s
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world-renowned Powder Highway, in the heart of the West Kootenays. Contemporary in its design, amenities and culinary philosophy, The Josie’s 106 stylishly-appointed one-bedroom suites, guest rooms and studio suites offer luxurious bedding, spacious bathrooms and relaxing lounge areas, with all rooms boasting unrivalled vistas of Red and the surrounding Rossland range. The Josie’s surroundings are a mecca for adventure, with Red boasting nearly 2,877 acres of pristine, unfettered terrain. Throughout winter, the hotel’s prime location offers guests unprecedented access to cat skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, cross country skiing, curling, ice skating and hockey. Red was recently named as one of the best places in the world to visit by The NY Times and was also listed within the Top 20 resorts in North America for skiable terrain. The Josie will be equipped with a dedicated ski concierge, providing in-depth, local knowledge to guide guests through that 'epic day', taking advantage of Red’s average annual snowfall of over 7.6 meters. “Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, people visit Rossland to escape life’s fast pace and surroundings,” said Mark Bell, general manager of The Josie. “We are thrilled to be opening our doors to the people of Rossland, and we look
forward to welcoming our visitors. The Josie was built to offer the region’s first luxury, boutique accommodation, while capturing the warm, spirited, hospitable and adventurous personality of the town. We feel privileged to be a part of Rossland’s growth as a unique Canadian destination.”
HOTEL TALISA The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott International, has welcomed Hotel Talisa, a top luxury ski resort in Vail, Colorado, to its ensemble of world-renowned properties. Vail’s only true ski-in/ski-out luxury resort, Hotel Talisa offers sleek sophistication in an idyllic setting, with interior design by Leo Daly. A hidden gem nestled in the heart of Colorado’s rugged Gore Mountain Range, Hotel
Talisa is designed to feel like a private oasis from the outside world. With a creekside setting ideal for active and meditative guest experiences, the luxury ski-in/ski-out resort offers an on-property chairlift, on-site rentals and ticket office, and a world-class ski concierge. “Vail is one of the most luxurious and thrilling mountain towns in the US, making it a natural fit for the Luxury Collection and our explorers who seek authentic experiences and connections to all types of destinations,” said Anthony Ingham, global brand leader, the Luxury Collection. “This latest addition to our Luxury Collection portfolio marks our first ski destination property in North America as we continue to expand our footprint in captivating destinations across the US." Vail Hotel Partners, a private real estate firm, has invested over $65 million in renovating and rebranding the hotel. Formerly known as the Vail Cascade Resort & Spa, the 285-room property will reposition as Vail’s newest luxury Resort. Hotel Talisa remains under the management of Two Roads Hospitality, the largest owner and operator of independent hotels, resorts and residences in the United States.
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T H A N K Y O U F O R N O M I N AT I N G U S A S T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S’ B E S T S K I B O U T I Q U E H OT E L 2018. Located high on the slopes above Park City, Utah and just steps from the ski runs of Deer Valley Resort, the Goldener Hirsch Inn is home to an elegant environment in an unparalleled natural setting, featuring award-winning ski-in/ski-out luxury accommodations, personal five-star service, and the renowned Goldener Hirsch Restaurant and lounge.
+1-435-649-1000 | deervalley.com
deervalley.com/discover
UNPAR ALLELED
W E A R E HONOR ED TO BE NOM INAT ED A S T HE U N IT ED STAT E S’ BE ST SK I R E SORT 2018; T H A NK YOU A L L V ERY MUC H. A DE ST INAT ION BE YON D C OMPA R ISON Experience why Deer Valley, located in Park City, Utah, has earned a sterling reputation as a world-class ski destination with an unparalleled level of service. +1-435-649-1000
Luxury Ski Chalets & Lodges since 1882.
We offer an exceptional array of properties and individuallytailored experiences across the Alps and beyond. To find out more visit our website or contact our travel team on: +44 (0)203 004 8750 www.leotrippi.com
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AMERICAS ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Aldebaran Hotel & Spa Charming Luxury Lodge & Private Spa Correntoso Lake & River Hotel Design Suites Hotel Bariloche El Casco Art Hotel Las Balsas Rio Hermoso Hotel ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Llao Llao Hotel & Resort Loi Suites Chapelco Hotel Los Cauquenes Resort & Spa Virgo Hotel & Spa ARGENTINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Batea Mahuida Catedral Alta Patagonia Cerro Bayo Cerro Castor Cerro Caviahue Ski Resort Chapelco Ski Resort La Hoya Las Leñas
CANADA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Adara Hotel Hotel Quintessence Nita Lake Lodge Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre Skoki Lodge Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Sun Peaks Lodge Sunshine Mountain Lodge
CANADA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Alpine View Chalet Belmont Estate Big Sky Chalet Bighorn, Revelstoke Crescendo Taluswood - The Heights CANADA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Four Seasons Resort & Residences Whistler Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside Post Hotel & Spa The Fairmont Banff Springs The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise The Fairmont Chateau Whistler The Rimrock Resort Hotel CANADA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Banff Sunshine Village Big White Ski Resort Fernie Alpine Resort Panorama Mountain Resort RED Mountain Resort Revelstoke Mountain Resort Sun Peaks Resort The Lake Louise Ski Resort Tremblant Whistler Blackcomb Whitewater Ski Resort
CHILE'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Hotel Antumalal Hotel Nevados Hotel Posada Farellones MI Lodge Pirimahuida Hotel
SKI FINALISTS 2018 CHILE'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Gran Hotel Termas de Chillan Hotel Portillo Hotel Valle Nevado The Valle Corralco Hotel & Spa CHILE'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Corralco Nevados de Chillán Portillo Valle Nevado
UNITED STATES' BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Amangani Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge Goldener Hirsch Inn Hotel Terra Jackson Hole Lake Placid Lodge Rusty Parrot Lodge Washington School House
UNITED STATES' BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Alta Aspen Snowmass Beaver Creek Big Ski Resort Crested Butte Deer Valley Resort Jackson Hole Mammoth Mountain Methow Valley Ski Area Park City Snowbird Squaw Valley - Alpine Meadows Steamboat Stowe Mountain Resort Sun Valley Telluride Vail
UNITED STATES' BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Element Basalt - Aspen Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole Four Seasons Resort Vail Hotel Talisa Limelight Hotel Ketchum Montage Deer Valley Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort & Spa Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch St Regis Deer Valley Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley The Arrabelle at Vail Square The Blake The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Lake Tahoe The Little Nell The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Waldorf Astoria Park City Westgate Park City Resort & Spa
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www.sportalm.at
EXPERIENCE NISEKO, EXPERIENCE LUXURY
Once the refuge solely of “powder hounds”, Niseko now offers more to those seeking a luxury winter experience.
Niseko has long been famous for its relentless powder snow, creating endless slideshows of faceshots on Instagram and epic turns for all to see. While the resort has been wellknown in Japan since the 1960’s, it was only discovered relatively recently on a global scale with the first wave of international guests arriving in the early 2000’s.
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Those guests were greeted by unbeatable snow and miles upon miles of untracked runs, but also by fairly rudimentary accommodation. At the time that was part of the appeal, the sense of adventure and visitors to the resort would have to navigate restaurants with menus only in Japanese and local supermarkets where it was never clear what might be inside the packet!
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Times have changed and the development of the resort in the last 15 years has been so rapid that Niseko now sits atop of Asia in terms of leading the standard for winter resorts. The growth has not been entirely smooth, with setbacks after the global financial crisis in 2008 and following the tsunami in 2011, but it has been unstoppable in the long run. Niseko’s drive towards excellence began with real estate development specifically designed for international tastes and the winter market. Older lodges were replaced with condominiums and simple noodle
shops gave way for Michelinstarred restaurants. The initial wave of investment from Australia has since paled into insignificance with interest from close by in Asia now driving the market. With that new investment has come a new demand from guests and investors alike. Gone are the days where a simple condominium could satisfy the majority of visitors who were happy to look after themselves in a traditional “self-catering� environment; happy to find their own way around the powder bowls and hidden glades; happy to share a bouncing bus from the airport.
Niseko has now well and truly entered the world of luxury winter escapes, where guests are not only looking to enjoy the best snow in the world, but also expecting the best hospitality in the world and all the options that go with that. The Vale Niseko was one of the first hotel buildings to take the step into the luxury market. Offering an onsite restaurant as well as Japanese hot springs and a small rental shop; it was the go-to location for the upper-end of the market visiting Niseko. No doubt as a result of that it has been the proud recipient of the World
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Ski Award for Japan’s Best Boutique Ski Hotel and the World’s Best Boutique Ski Hotel for several years. The baton has since been well and truly picked up in the latest wave of growth in Niseko, with individual
houses for the super-rich popping up alongside full-service hotel developments. Hakuchozan, a sevenbedroom house in the middle of Niseko-Hirafu, epitomises the trend towards catering for families and groups who want everything in place for their visit. This full-service chalet offers private airport transfers and a private in-house chef for all bookings, as well as in-chalet boot and ski fitting services and round-theclock butlers to service its guests. Skye Niseko, opening in December 2018, takes this service level large scale, with 100 suites and 5 stunning penthouses housing a total of over 450 guests. The ski-in ski-out location at the top of Niseko-Hirafu allows guests instant access to the snow, with the private ski valet and ski rental allowing visitors to enjoy a hassle-free start and end to their stay. But Skye Niseko does not only cater to those seeking time in the
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legendary powder–guests who prefer to enjoy the view from inside can take their pick from an extensive massage and beauty treatment menu in the luxurious Ryko Spa; they can peruse the latest fashions in the in-house shop; they can relax all day in the cafédeli or Kumo Restaurant, enjoying unbeatable views of Niseko’s iconic Mt Yotei while clinking champagne glasses with their loved ones. “We’ve seen a big change in guests over the last few years,” comments Michiko Tamoto, Hotel Manager of Ki Niseko. “Plenty of visitors now spend
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just a couple of hours on snow, if at all, and then look for other activities. More of their time is spent enjoying the incredible local food, the natural hot springs, massages or shopping than they do on the slopes. Our job as hoteliers and hospitality providers is to guide guests in the direction of the services they want, so seeing an increasing number of off-snow activities come on line is fantastic for us and the resort.� Development is never smooth, but the team behind Skye Niseko did realise that providing 450 beds also meant a responsibility to provide more food options. Kumo Restaurant will be Niseko-Hirafu’s largest option, providing breakfast, lunch and dinner to hundreds of resort visitors a day. And while the guests may
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want service in English (most restaurants now do cater to international guests with English menus!) they also still want a taste of Japan’s famous cuisine. Kumo Restaurant provides that with traditional izakaya food options tweaked to the international palette and other culinary options abound in Niseko with restaurants like An Dining giving diners a truly unique taste of all that Japan and Hokkaido have to offer. Skye Niseko and the full-service hotel really is just the tip of the iceberg. The next few years in Niseko will see the opening of a brand-new Park Hyatt Hotel and Residences in Niseko-Hanazono resort, over 80 new retail and F&B outlets planned in the huge Aruku-zaka walking street project in central Niseko-Hirafu and plans for The Ritz-Carlton in Niseko Village resort. It seems a long way since the first international visitors and businesses made tracks back in the early 2000’s, but Niseko is undoubtedly still on the rise. The good news is that the powder snow remains unbeatable for those who come to ski or snowboard in the best conditions known to man, but now there is something for everyone to enjoy–even those who are not so keen on getting buried in snow! For more information on Niseko visit www.experienceniseko.com All images courtesy of HTM (Hokkaido Tourism Management)
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WORLD SKI AWARDS SPOTLIGHT ON:
ASIA
With plans for the longest ever indoor slope unveiled in Shanghai and Elite Havens expanding its portfolio in Niseko, Japan, we here bring you the latest from ski hospitality in Asia With China set to host the Winter Olympics in 2022, authorities have been working overtime to boost interest in ski hospitality. With dozens of new resorts in development, planners have now unveiled the most audacious addition yet - Wintastar Shanghai. The largest ever indoor ski resort, it will cover 227,000 square metres, with the ski slope itself spanning 90,000 of those. The new development has been designed by award-winning Italian
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architect Massimo Mercurio of Singapore-based, Mercurio Design Lab. Despite its futuristic exterior, inside the resort will offer the classic chalet feel of the Alps, giving skiers a taste of European hospitality. Behind the project is KOP Limited, a Singapore-based real estate development and entertainment company, while the operation of the new facility will be in the hands of Majid Al Futtaim, the company behind Ski Dubai.
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KOP has estimated that the new facility, in the Pudong New Area of the Chinese city, will welcome an estimated 3.2 million visitors each year. There will be three slopes of varying gradients, including a slope of Winter Olympic training standard measuring three kilometres in length. “The timing for Wintastar Shanghai could not be better, with Chinese consumers yearning for travel, leisure, novel experiences, and winter sports being the next big thing in China because of the Beijing
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Winter Olympics 2022,” said Ong Chih Ching, executive chairman and executive director of KOP. In addition to skiing and snowboarding facilities, Wintastar Shanghai will also cater for nonskiers, with après activities including shopping, restaurants and bars, a spa, ice skating rink and an events space to host exhibitions and performances.
ELITE HAVENS Elite Havens has expanded its luxury villa portfolio by acquiring the 17 beautiful properties of Niseko Boutiques, located in the picturesque wintery wonderland of Japan’s most famous ski resort. A firm favourite with the international skiing/snowboarding community, Niseko is renowned for its spectacular scenery, scenic ski runs with guaranteed fresh snow, and après skiing. Elite Havens has built a sterling reputation for its 200+ rental villas in exotic tropical beach destinations from Bali to Phuket, Koh Samui, Lombok, Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Niseko makes a dream holiday destination of a different kind, a veritable paradise for powder skiing.
Known as the powder capital of Japan, winds blowing down from Siberia blend with moisture rising from the Sea of Japan to create a fresh blanket of snow nearly every day of the ski season (December to April.) Niseko lures snow riders of all levels, including extreme adventurers lured to exhilarating tree runs and off trail heli-skiing. It's four interlinking resorts also cater well to international families, with plenty of fun activities for all ages, including ski lessons. Elite Havens will be managing, maintaining and marketing all villas in the newly acquired Niseko portfolio which includes luxury lodges, traditional ski chalets and chic modern apartments. All come with a renowned concierge service and are perfectly situated to enjoy the enchanting scenery and magnificent views over picturesque Mount Yotei. All properties are set in the buzzing village of Hirafu, renowned for its cosy cafes, gourmet restaurants and vibrant nightlife. “We are delighted to add Niseko Boutiques to our luxury villa portfolio, and to offer a new range
of exceptional experiences and activities for our guests. From white powdery sand beaches of south east Asia, to the outstanding fresh powdery snow of northern Japan, it is our aim to provide the best private luxury accommodation across the region,” said Jon Stonham, chief executive of Elite Havens.
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HANS GRIMUS: 1940-2018
Hans Grimus collects “Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism” at World Ski Awards Gala Ceremony 2017
In 2018, the ski industry bid farewell to one of its great pioneers and larger-than-life characters. Born in 1940, Hans Grimus developed an early talent for athletics and football, but ironically wasn’t a skier as he grew up in what he called the “flat” part of Austria. With opportunities in post-war Austria few and far between, he heard of a friend’s plan to travel to Australia. So as an 18-year-old, and with nothing but $16 in his pocket, boarded a ship bound for Melbourne. After his arrival, he landed a job at the Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme for seven months. In extreme conditions working 16+ hour days, he escaped death no fewer than three times. It was then, by sheer coincidence, that he came across a fellow Austrian in
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a St Kilda restaurant one night, who helped him get a job opportunity in the winter sports industry. He started as a ski lift operator and soon became the industry’s figurehead and director. The Mount Buller area even named one of its flagship chairlifts in his honour. In 1969, he opened his first hotel, taking traditional Austrian style and his heritage to the burgeoning Australian ski industry, steadily expanding its 35 rooms to 120. Almost 50 years on, Hotel Pension Grimus is globally recognised as the nation’s number one ski hotel. And the Grimus family remain an integral part of Mount Buller’s history and cultural fabric.
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Having received State Honours from both Australia and Austria, the World Ski Awards recognised the remarkable life of Hans Grimus with the award for “Outstanding Contribution to Ski Tourism” in 2017 for his role developing ski tourism industry in Australia, as well as for his promotion of Austria down under.
6 T H A N N UA L
ASIA AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Astra Falls Creek Denman Hotel & Spa Kosciuszko Chalet Hotel Perisher Valley Hotel QT Falls Creek Ramada Resort Dinner Plain Mt Hotham AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Blowhard Feathertop Château Rockpool Lodge Sequoia Penthouse Thredbo Ski In Ski Out Chalets AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Breathtaker Hotel Pension Grimus Novotel Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa The Man from Snowy River Hotel The Sebel Pinnacle Valley AUSTRALIA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Falls Creek Mt Buller Mt Hotham Perisher Thredbo
SKI FINALISTS 2018
CHINA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Bei Da Hu Ski Resort Beijing Huai Bei International Ski Resort Changbaishan Wanda International Resort Genting Resort Secret Garden Nanshan Ski Village Sun Mountain Yabuli Thaiwoo Ski Resort Vanke Lake Songhua Resort
JAPAN'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Aburaya Tousen Chalet Ivy Hotel La Neige Higashi-kan Ki Niseko Kimamaya Boutique Hotel LOFT Niseko MUSE Niseko Nozawa Grand Hotel Ryokan Sakaya Shiki Niseko The Kamui Niseko The Vale Niseko Villa Rusutsu, Hokkaido Zaborin JAPAN'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Aspect Gustav's Hideaway Hakuchozan Kozue Morino Lodge One Happo Phoenix One Sekka Kan
JAPAN'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Akakura Kanko Resort & Spa Alpen Ridge Hakuba Tokyu Hotel Hilton Niseko Village Karuizawa Prince Hotel East Naeba Prince Hotel New Furano Prince Hotel Sheraton Hokkaido Kiroro Resort Shiga Kogen Prince Hotel Sierra resort Hakuba The Green Leaf Niseko Village The Kiroro, Tribute Portfolio Hotel Hokkaido The Prince Karuizawa The Westin Rusutsu Resort JAPAN'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Appi Kogen Furano Ski Resort Hakuba Karuizawa Prince Hotel Ski Resort Myoko Kogen Ski Resort Naeba Ski Resort Niseko United Rusutsu Resort Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort
NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI BOUTIQUE HOTEL 2018 Arrowtown House Boutique Hotel Blanket Bay Browns Boutique Hotel Eichardt's Private Hotel Matakauri Lodge NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI CHALET 2018 Azur Luxury Lodge Distinction Wanaka Serviced Apartments Porters Alpine Lodge Riverrun Whare Kea Lodge & Chalet
NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Chateau Tongariro Hotel Crowne Plaza Queenstown Hilton Queenstown Resort & Spa Millbrook Resort Peppers Bluewater Resort The Hermitage The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences NEW ZEALAND'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Cardrona Alpine Resort Coronet Peak Mt Hutt Ohau Snow Fields Porters Roundhill The Remarkables Treble Cone Tūroa Whakapapa
SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI HOTEL 2018 Dragon Valley Hotel High1 Hotel Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Alpensia Pyeongchang Suites Hotel Tirol InterContinental Alpensia Pyeongchang Resort Kangwon Land Hotel SOUTH KOREA'S BEST SKI RESORT 2018 Alpensia Bears Town High1 Resort Muju Deukyusan Phoenix Park Vivaldi Park Yongpyong Resort
WORLD SKI AWARDS 2018
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6 T H A N N UA L
WORLD WORLD'S BEST FREESTYLE RESORT 2018 Avoriaz 1800 Breckenridge LAAX (Switzerland) Les 2 Alpes Mammoth Mountain Mayrhofen Snowpark Seiser Alm The Lake Louise Ski Resort – Showtime Terrain Park Whistler Blackcomb WORLD'S BEST GREEN SKI HOTEL 2018 Ferienart Resort & Spa Forsthofalm Holzhotel Hotel Terra Leitlhof Dolomiten Les Neiges d'Antan Résidence Pierre et Vacances Premium L'Amara rocksresort (Switzerland) Thaiwoo Element Hotel The Crystal Lifestyle Hotel The Gradonna Mountain Resort Châlets & Hotel Vigilius Mountain Resort WORLD'S BEST HELI-SKI OPERATOR 2018 Arctic Heli Skiing (Iceland and Greenland) Bella Coola Heli Sports (Canada) Hokkaido Backcountry Club ( Japan) Selkirk Tangiers Heli Skiing (Canada) Stellar Heliskiing (Canada) Whistler Heli-Skiing (Canada)
WORLD'S BEST INDOOR SKI RESORT 2018 Alpincenter Bottrop (Germany) Madrid SnowZone (Spain) Ski Dubai (UAE) Ski Egypt Snow Factor (Scotland) Snowplanet (New Zealand) SnowWorld Landgraaf (Netherlands) WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI CHALET 2018 Belmont Estate (Canada) Chalet Babylon (France) Chalet BANKSY Tribute (France) Chalet Bioley (Switzerland) Chalet des Cascades (France) Chalet Joux Plane, Morzine (France) Chalet Thanasis (France) Chalet Ubud (France) J’s Den ( Japan) Sweet Little Home (Austria) WORLD'S BEST NEW SKI HOTEL 2018 Baihua Hotel (China) Club Med Grand Massif Samoëns Morillon (France) Fahrenheit Seven Courchevel Four Seasons Hotel Megève Green Flow Hotel (Russia) Riders Hotel (Switzerland) WORLD'S BEST SKI RESORT COMPANY 2018 Aspen Snowmass Bergbahn AG Kitzbühel Compagnie des Alpes Prince Hotels, Inc. SkiStar Vail Resorts Weisse Arena Gruppe
SKI FINALISTS 2018 WORLD'S BEST SKI TOUR OPERATOR 2018 Alpine Adventures Bramble Ski CANUSA Club Reisen Stumböck Consensio Crystal Ski Dolomite Mountains Kaluma Travel Langley Liquid Snow Tours Neilson Premiere Neige Ski Holidays Ski.com Skican Skiworld SnowTrex Sunweb The Boutique Chalet Company Travelplan Ski TRAVELSKI WeSki
WORLD'S BEST SKI TRAVEL AGENT 2018 AlpineBooker Camel Snow Explore Niseko Firefly Collection House of Travel Ski HTM Niseko Iglu Ski Leo Trippi LUEX Luxury Chalet Book LuxVacation.com Simply Val d’Isère Ski In Luxury/Ultimate Luxury Chalets Ski Line Ski Solutions SkiBoutique SNO The Oxford Ski Company travel&co Whistler Central Reservations
WORLD'S BEST SKI TRANSFER OPERATOR 2018 EdelSwiss Limousine Company Europe Transfer Fly Ski Shuttle Innsbruck Airport Taxi – Gangl Transfers Munich Ski Shuttle Schneebeben Ski-Lifts SkyExpress ( Japan) SnowDrone Transfers
WORLD SKI AWARDS 2018
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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF TRAVEL EXCELLENCE
GRAND FINAL GALA CEREMONY Saturday 1st December 2018 Pátio da Galé, Lisbon, Portugal
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