Ski-In/Ski-Out Luxury: Your Dream Apartment Awaits in Vordernberg!
Ski-In/Ski-Out Luxury: Vordernberg's Dream Apartment - A Thoroughly Unfiltered Review (with a Few Stumbles Along the Way)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to dive headfirst into the, uh, "Ski-In/Ski-Out Luxury: Your Dream Apartment Awaits in Vordernberg!" experience. And let me tell you, it's been… well, it's been something. This isn't your typical, polished travel blog post, riddled with perfect prose and meticulously curated photos. This is the raw, unfiltered reality. So, grab a drink (I know I need one after this), maybe a notepad, and let's get messy.
Accessibility & The Initial Hurdle (Or, Why I'm Already Sweating)
Okay, so "accessibility." This is important, and I'm thrilled to see it's taken seriously. Now, this review is written with an able-bodied person in mind, as I don't have a personal need for wheelchair accessibility, but I am super critical of any place that claims luxury and then skimps on inclusivity. From what I saw (and read!), they've made an effort. (Facilities for disabled guests) is listed, and that's a good start. Elevators are listed (Elevator), crucial in a multi-story building. I didn't see any specific details about ramp access to restaurants, which I'd love to have seen, though. I mean, it's luxury, right? Make it easy for everyone.
Internet: The Digital Tether & My Ongoing Love Affair with Wi-Fi
Let me preface this by saying: I’m practically married to the internet. And in this digital age, reliable Wi-Fi is as essential as oxygen. The good news? Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And Internet access – wireless! Double win! No more frantically searching for a signal while trying to upload that epic ski selfie. They also offer Internet [LAN] and Internet services – a godsend for those needing a more stable connection. And there’s Wi-Fi in public areas! (If you're anything like me & can't be away from your phone for more than 5 minutes, you understand this is crucial)
Cleanliness & Safety: COVID-Age Concerns and My Overwhelming Need to Not Die
Okay, this is where I get serious. Cleanliness and safety are HUGE right now, and I’m judging harshly. The good news is, they seem to be taking it seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Rooms sanitized between stays are all music to my germophobic ears. They even have Professional-grade sanitizing services! That's a level of clean I can get behind. Individually-wrapped food options (yes!), Safe dining setup, and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items are also reassuring. Staff trained in safety protocol and the Hot water linen and laundry washing is also a plus. Now about the Hygiene certification? I do like to see that!
The optional Room sanitization opt-out available is interesting. I guess some people like to live on the edge? shrugs. And the Hand sanitizer everywhere has been a godsend. Oh! & I was so pleased to notice there was Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. I've seen some places completely miss the mark!
The "Things To Do" & "Ways To Relax" Extravaganza (Or, How I Tried to Become a Zen Master)
This is where it gets exciting, right? The promise of Bliss. Let's start with the Spa/Sauna situation. It’s like they read my mind. A Body scrub, a Body wrap, a Massage – I can almost feel the stress melting away. Almost. I'm also a big fan of the Steamroom, and the Foot bath? Genius! The Pool with view is not just listed; it’s practically mandatory! I spent a good hour staring out at the mountains, completely lost in thought. The Swimming pool [outdoor] is also included, and the Swimming pool too! Now, can I get a pool that also offers masseuse's? Asking for a friend.
But then there's the Fitness center (and the Gym/fitness). Okay, I tried. I really did. But after a day of skiing, the idea of working out felt, let’s say, optimistic. Kudos to those who actually use the gym, though!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: My Perpetual Quest for Deliciousness
Okay, time for the real important stuff: the food. Let's start with the basics. There is both a Breakfast [buffet] and a Breakfast service, which is fantastic. I LOVE a good buffet, and the Western breakfast and Asian breakfast options are both great! I’m also a fan of the Coffee/tea in restaurant situation. The Coffee shop here is good too!
Beyond breakfast, there are Restaurants to explore. The A la carte in restaurant and Buffet in restaurant will certainly cater to your tastebuds! They have a Vegetarian restaurant which is great for those who like to eat healthy (I'm not one of them, but I can respect it). There's also Asian cuisine in restaurant - which seems interesting! And I always love to look at the International cuisine in restaurant list.
The Poolside bar and the Bar are absolute lifesavers after a long day on the slopes. Happy hour is always welcome. And the Snack bar is essential for those mid-afternoon hunger pangs.
The best part? Room service [24-hour]! Yes, please! Especially after those long days of skiing and spa-ing.
I had the most incredible Salad in restaurant while I as there! (okay, maybe not incredible, but it was delicious).
And, okay, confession: I may have indulged in a piece of Desserts in restaurant or two. Or three. No regrets.
Services and Conveniences: Because Luxury Shouldn't Be Hard Work
Alright, let's tick off the essentials. Air conditioning in public area? Check. Concierge? Check. Daily housekeeping? Double check! Doorman? Makes you feel fancy. And a Laundry service is a must. I'm not washing my own socks on vacation. Nope. Not happening.
I loved the Contactless check-in/out – so much easier (and safer) than fumbling with paperwork. Cashless payment service? Brilliant. And, of course, the Luggage storage is a lifesaver. Safety deposit boxes is always a plus.
Okay, here is where I make a small, but important, gripe. While they do have a Convenience store, I wish it was better stocked! It’s a minor thing, but when you’re craving a late-night snack, it can be a letdown.
For the Kids: The Babysitter's Confession (Or, Why I Don't Have Any)
I don’t have kids. I repeat, I do not have kids. But I did see the Kids facilities and the Babysitting service offered, and so I have to write about my reaction:
…Okay, my reaction is a blank stare. I don't know anything about dealing with kids! What does a "Kids meal," entail? Is that chicken nuggets and fries? My friend had his kid here recently!
The Rooms: My Personal Sanctuary (Mostly)
Let's talk about the core experience: the apartment itself! Available in all rooms? Obviously. Air conditioning? Essential. Blackout curtains? Thank goodness! Because I need to sleep. A lot. Complimentary tea? Yes! Always a win! The Extra long bed was a godsend. The In-room safe box is a good touch.
Now, the Bathroom phone is a bit of an oddity, but functional, I suppose. The Bathrobes and Slippers are the epitome of luxury. Towels are provided, and oh my are they fluffy!
I'm thrilled about the Reading light, because I love reading. The Refrigerator is there, but I do wish it was bigger. The Mini bar is also provided - I'm happy to see it. I wish there was a Scale - but it's okay.
The Seating area is great for relaxing. The Shower is also great, and the Separate shower/bathtub is even better. The Bathrooms generally were great! I love a good Mirror.
The Wake-up service is handy, and the Wi-Fi [free] is perfect. A Window that opens is appreciated!
Getting Around: Ski-In/Ski-Out Bliss, and the Occasional Taxi
Okay, the big selling point: **Ski-In
Krakow Luxury: Unbelievable Apartment in Małopolska Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's meticulously planned, perfectly polished travel itinerary. This is going to be a hilarious, slightly chaotic, and gloriously messy journey through my (attempted) ski trip from an apartment in Vordernberg, near Graz, Austria.
Day 1 (Arrival & An Ode to the Disastrous Grocery Run)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Wake up in that weird, pre-dawn grogginess that always hits hardest when you're excited. Okay, maybe not "excited," more like "cautiously optimistic." Head to airport.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Arrive in Graz airport. Smugness is at an all-time high since I thought planning my own trip would be easy.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Pick up rental car. Ah, the "thrill" of European driving. I swear those roundabouts are designed to test your sanity.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Arrive in Vordernberg, drop my bags, and then the real fun begins: the grocery store. I swear, I get more perplexed by the local selection of Austrian yogurt than choosing a college. I spent a solid hour wandering around, completely bewildered by the sheer volume of… everything. I ended up with what I thought was cheese, which turned out to be, like, some sort of flavored cream cheese spread. And I almost bought a whole roasted duck assuming I could figure out how to re-heat it. Ended up with bread, some sort of "Wurst," and a six-pack of that local beer. Success! (Or so I thought. More on that later.)
- Evening (7:00 PM): Attempt to unpack, realise I have nothing in the way of soap and body wash. Sigh, walk over to local shop with limited English speakers and buy a generic shampoo.
Day 2 (The Mountain… and My Epic Faceplant)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Wake up feeling surprisingly well-rested, probably because of that beer I had that night. Fueled by my delightful "Wurst" and bread from yesterday, I embark on my skiing adventure.
- Morning (9:00 AM): Arrive at the ski area. The sheer majesty of the Alps hits me. I'm talking "breathtaking" levels. And I'm already slightly freaking out. My ski gear looked way more impressive in the rental shop than it does on me.
- Morning (10:00 AM): The beginner slope! Hahaha. Okay.
- Morning (11:00 AM): Disaster. Absolute glorious disaster. I mean, I’m pretty sure I spent 30 minutes straight on the ground. Faceplant. Faceplant. Faceplant. I will admit, it was a bit comical but I think I twisted my ankle on one of them.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Lunch break! I ended up in a pretty decent ski lodge. The food was amazing. I had some sort of dumpling thing with a rich gravy. I probably ate the whole plate in like 5 minutes.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Back to skiing - or rather, back to falling. More faceplants. I blame the poles. Or maybe the skis.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM): I have made the choice of retreating to the Lodge.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Back at the apartment. Painkillers, Netflix, and the lingering smell of my slightly burnt breadsticks. My ankle is throbbing, but hey, at least I have a story to tell.
Day 3 (Exploring Vordernberg and the Undeniable Truth About Austrian Bakeries)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Wake up with a sore ankle, but at least I didn't break anything! I’ve decided to take it easy and see what Vordernberg has to offer.
- Morning (10:00 AM): I head to the village.
- Morning (11:00 AM): I stumbled upon this quaint little bakery. Okay, "stumbled" is an understatement. I practically floated in, drawn by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread and sweet pastries. The smell alone was worth the trip.
- Afternoon (12:00 PM): Lunch time, I went back to the bakery and ordered a massive sandwich.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): back at the apartment, and the whole apartment smells like bread. It's glorious.
Day 4 (Attempting Culture…and the Curse of the "Lost in Translation" Dinner)
- Morning (10:00 AM): I felt bold enough to try and explore the town of Graz.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Back at the apartment, I decided to have dinner. I have decided to try and cook, and it went wrong.
- Evening (7:00 PM): I ordered some pizza and watched a movie.
Day 5 (Departure & The Aftermath of a Messy Adventure)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Pack up my mess of an apartment. I’m pretty sure half my belongings are still on the drying rack, but who cares?
- Morning (10:00 AM): Drive back to Graz airport.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Head through security.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM): Board the plane, reflecting on the joyous disaster of this trip. Faceplants, lost-in-translation dinners, and the unyielding charm of Austrian bakeries.
Reflections:
- I am not a skier. This has been proven.
- Next time: I will bring more than just one bar of soap.
- Austrian bakeries are heaven. Do not, I repeat, DO NOT leave Austria without experiencing them.
- Travel is messy. It's also exhilarating. And sometimes, hilariously awful. But it's my mess, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Ski-In/Ski-Out Luxury: Uh... Your Dream Apartment in Vordernberg? (Maybe)
Okay, so "Ski-In/Ski-Out" - is that *actually* the case? Or, you know, a marketing fib?
Alright, let's be real. "Ski-In/Ski-Out" is often a tempting little lie, like when your friend says they're "just a little hungover." BUT! In Vordernberg, with these apartments... *generally* yes! Think of it like this: you can practically roll out of bed, stumble into your boots (after a coffee *or* a quick shot of something stronger, no judgment), and *then*… *bam!* Gentle slope, maybe a tiny push, and you're *on* the piste. No marathon walks with your skis. No public transport. Unless you’re REALLY hammered, in which case, maybe take the gondola down first – gotta prioritize safety, people! My first time there? Utterly floored. My buddy, bless his heart, he took a tumble right off the balcony, right onto the snow, and he was skiing in under 10 minutes. Amazing!
What’s the size situation like? My husband likes to sprawl...
Sprawling husbands, eh? I get it. Space is… variable. Some apartments are palaces with enough room to host a small army (or your husband and his avalanche gear). Others are… let's call them ‘cozy’. Think of it like finding the perfect pair of ski boots. You need something snug, yes, but you don't want to feel like you’re trying to fit into Cinderella's slipper. Read the descriptions. Get a floor plan. And be brutally honest about how much space you *truly* need. My advice? Go big. You'll thank me later, especially after a day on the slopes. I've seen families packed in like sardines. Believe me, that’s not the vibe you want when you’re trying to sip hot cocoa after a day of shredding.
Luxury? What does that *actually* mean in Vordernberg? Jacuzzis? Butlers? Unicorns?
Alright, let's manage expectations. Unicorns? Sadly, no. (Though, wouldn't that be amazing? Image a unicorn pulling you up the beginner slope!) But luxury? Think high-end finishes, well-appointed kitchens (dishwashers *are* luxury, let’s be honest), often fireplaces, balconies boasting insane views (seriously, the views!), and sometimes – *sometimes* – a hot tub. Not always a butler (unless you're REALLY shelling out, or you bring your own very long-suffering friend), but definitely a step up from, say, a hostel with a shared bathroom and questionable plumbing. The quality varies! Some places *scream* luxury, others whisper it. Always check the photos. Don’t assume a fancy word means actual fancy. I’ve seen "luxury" turn out to be… let's call it "functional." One time, I stayed in a place that promised a panoramic view. It delivered. Right into the parking lot. NOT what I was hoping for after a particularly grueling mogul session.
Are there other amenities? Like, a place to stash our skis? Because I’m NOT carrying those things everywhere!
Ski storage? Crucial. Honestly, it's a deal-breaker for me. Nobody wants to trip over their skis in the living room after a long day. Most of these apartments *should* have ski storage – lockers, a dedicated room, something. Check. Double-check. Triple-check. Also, think about other stuff: underground parking (essential in winter, nobody wants to spend hours digging their car out of a snowdrift), Wi-Fi (for Instagramming those epic runs, obviously), a washing machine (because smelly ski socks are a crime against humanity), and maybe a spa. A spa is always a good idea. Always. Trust me. My worst experience? Arriving at a place with no ski storage, and my skis ended up propped up in the hallway, blocking the entrance. And then, the neighbor tripped over them. Epic chaos. Lesson learned.
What's the deal with the food? Like, am I going to starve?
Starving? Unlikely. Vordernberg is a village, not a desert island. You'll find restaurants, cafes, and probably a local supermarket to stock up. Some apartments come with fully equipped kitchens; others might have a kitchenette (think more toaster and microwave than gourmet chef). If you value your sanity (and the ability to ski the next day), consider proximity to restaurants. Nothing beats stumbling back to your apartment after a hearty meal and a few beers. Or three. My personal experience? One year, I went totally rogue. I swore I'd cook every meal to save money. It lasted two days. Then, the lure of schnitzel and Apfelstrudel became too much. The local restaurants saved me. Thank god.
How's the après-ski scene? I like a good drink... or three.
Après-ski! Now we're talking! Vordernberg is a smaller resort, so don’t expect Ibiza. But there *are* bars, and they're usually lively. Expect a good mix of locals and visitors, plenty of beer flowing, and possibly some questionable dancing. Think cozy rather than crazy. Consider your apartment's location in relation to the bars. A short, relatively sober walk home is always a good idea. Trust me, navigating icy streets after a few too many Glühweins is not a fun experience. I once stayed *way* out of town because they offered a deal. It was a LONG walk. A very, very long walk. I stumbled back, got lost three times, and nearly caused a major international incident with some strategically placed snowballs.
Anything I should *specifically* look out for, like hidden fees or… creepy things?
Hidden fees? ALWAYS. Read the fine print. Cleaning fees, linen fees, local taxes… they can add up! Ask about everything BEFORE you book to avoid nasty surprises. Creepy things? Well, that depends on your definition of "creepy." Ensure there were recent reviews. Check the photos VERY carefully. And if something seems *off*… trust your gut. I once booked a place that looked amazing online, and the photos were suspiciously perfect. Turns out, the only view was of a very grumpy farmer's barn. I swear I saw him glare at me from the window. On arrival, the place was dusty, and the toilet wouldn't flush. It was an adventure, to say the least! Also, note when the place was last renovated; sometimes, 'luxury' is a vintage relic of the 1970's. Bring a flashlight. Also, let someone know where you're going. Just in case the grumpy farmer's barn situation happens to you.
Hotel Near Airport
