The Alps are the largest and most notable mountain range in Europe. They were formed millions of years ago and became a popular destination for travelers in the late 18th century—initially for tourists and explorers, then for artists and writers, and finally for all who wished to spend the summer in nature or participate in winter sports. Angelika Taschen followed in their footsteps and gathered the most beautiful hotels in the Alpine countries of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and Italy. Included are the Kranzbach near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Gasthof Hirschen in Bregenzerwald, and the Seehof near Salzburg, with an emphasis on contemporary art and fine cuisine. The route also includes the Schatzalp in Davos, which was literarily captured by Thomas Mann in “The Magic Mountain,” as well as picturesque guesthouses with personality such as Brücke49 in Vals and Maison Bergdorf in Interlaken. High above Chamonix, mountaineers have been spending the night for more than 140 years at Refuge du Montenvers with a view of the Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in France. In the famous Megève, travelers enjoy the Alps à la française at the chalet hotel L’Alpaga, while South Tyrol offers the Italian dolce vita with impressive destinations such as Ottmangut in Merano, Villa Arnica in Lana with a nostalgic atmosphere, and Pension Briol near Barbiano, built in 1928 in Bauhaus style and expanded in 2021 with the addition of two contemporary structures. This voluminous photo book presents the Alpine range and accommodation in large images, concise texts, and useful details on prices and accessibility. Hikers, skiers, gourmets, and food enthusiasts will find valuable tips and very special accommodations: former monasteries where guests still enjoy peace and seclusion, a mountain hut in the heart of the Dolomites and a youth hostel housed in what was once a sanatorium, a rare example of contemporary architecture in Switzerland declared a heritage monument in 2002.
