BIRD is delighted to announce its partnership with The Arula Chalets, one of the most exclusive chalet offerings in the Arlberg ski region, located in an enviable slope-side position in Lech, Austria with unrivalled views across pristine pistes. The Arula Chalets offer two beautiful adjoining properties with ski-in/ski-out access, world-class service and an experience like no other.
An alpine hideaway
Enjoying an elevated – and highly private – position above the village of Lech, The Arula Chalets can be booked independently or together to host up to 30 guests across 13 ensuite bedrooms; Arula 1 sleeps up to 22 guests while Arula 2 sleeps up to 8 guests.
The remarkable interior by London-based designers Afs Mehrai and Amie Mercer is effortlessly chic and carefully balanced. Combining soothing tones and subtle lighting, the chalets elevate pine panelling with mid-century furniture and traditional Austrian craftsmanship, while an eclectic selection of modern artwork adorns the walls, including original alpine prints from iconic high society photographer Slim Aarons and mixed media art by pop surrealist Nick Sherratt. Elsewhere, Austrian sculptor Sepp Auer showcases an ongoing exploration of materiality and design possibilities through a conceptual approach to modernism.
Open in both winter and summer, The Arula Chalets offer the perfect hideaway for families, groups of friends, corporates or celebrations, with each chalet home to its own sweeping terrace overlooking the resort, cinema and wine cellar, while the shared private ice rink, self-playing Steinway Piano, casino table and shuffleboard bring out your competitive side.
Culinary creations
Head Chef Markus Schuelke, previously of Schlosshotel Ischgl, is at the helm of the kitchen which serves international culinary creations using seasonal local produce and ingredients. Fully catered, highly personalised menus leave you spoilt for choice from fine dining to family-style dinners. Austrian classics are also on offer, including cheese fondue and wiener schnitzel, alongside dedicated wellness menus designed to complement all your wellbeing needs and a choice of themed nights.
Arula 1’s walk-in wine cellar hosts intimate tastings led by in-house sommelier Patrick Hupf who showcases the chalets’ impressive selection of globally famed wines, such as Sassicaia vintages and 2005 Chateau Haut-Brion, alongside Austrian favourites including Weissburgunders produced by Georg Prieler on the slopes of Neusiedlersee and Clemens Strobl, a second-generation family-owned vineyard recognised for its organic wines in the Wagram region.
Rest & rejuvenate
New for this winter, The Arula Chalets has launched an exclusive partnership with award-winning skincare specialists Augustinus Bader to offer you complimentary face cream and cleanser in each room as well as an extensive menu of facials to enjoy after a long day on the slopes. Bathroom amenities are by Zenology – the sustainable Dutch skincare brand which prides itself on environmentally friendly ingredients. Each chalet has extensive spa and wellness facilities including an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam bath and relaxation areas, with Arula 1 also hosting an infra-red cabin, as well as sumptuous treatment rooms where hot stone and deep tissue massages await alongside rejuvenating facials from the in-chalet spa therapist. Yoga, Pilates and personal training can be arranged on request.
Unparalleled experiences
The Arula Chalets’ world-class service includes 24hr butler service, daily housekeeping, a dedicated chauffeur, massage therapist and yoga instructor. With immaculate attention to detail, the chalets’ concierge team is on hand to elevate your experience, from private shopping, babysitting and securing the best tables up the mountain, to elite DJ decks and Sonos surround sound systems which transform the underground garage into Lech’s most enviable nightclub.
Looking to take your skiing to the next level? Chose to join former Austrian ski champions, including Olympic Gold Medallist Franz Klammer, also known as ‘the king of the downhill’, and Freeride world champion Nadine Wallner for expert ski guidance. Testing the limits, if you’re feeling more adventurous, opt for a first-class heli-skiing experience for backcountry powder across the Alberg ski region or fly to the Dolomites for a morning of vertical descents in upmost seclusion. Ski touring, cross-country skiing and snow shoeing is also on offer if you’re seeking a different mountain experience.
