Closer to Heaven
From private ski lessons and a boot warming service to open-air pools overlooking the peaks; El Lodge in Sierra Nevada shows us why it is considered one of the best luxury hotels in the world.
Nestled in the heart of the resort village, Sierra Nevada, 2,300m above sea level you will find El Lodge Ski & Spa, an enchanting, Alpine-style boutique retreat constructed from seasoned Finnish timber and embellished with antler chandeliers, lamps made from Campari Soda bottles, cowhide rugs and electronically operated bedroom curtains. El Lodge features ski-in/ski-out privileges as well as interiors by famed British interior designer, Andrew Martin who has decorated the rooms with luxurious but cosy furnishings. The lodge’s rooms and suites offer a spacious layout, with floor to ceiling windows, providing breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains. First floor rooms feature direct access to the outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, whilst second and third floor accommodation offers grand terraces with private Jacuzzis overlooking the mountains and village. Complimentary WIFI, cable & satellite TV, in-house DVD players, iPads, music systems, Nespresso machines, minibars, humidifiers and Natura Bissé amenities are just a few of the five-star facilities offered in the stunning Nordic inspired bedrooms.
El Lodge offers two restaurants, a bar and a lounge. Guests can unwind at the Bar with a classic cocktail before dining at The Grill, its rustic fine dining restaurant. Plus, you can’t beat skiing into The Sun Deck, Sierra Nevada’s only ski-in/ski-out restaurant, for hot chocolate and a gourmet lunch. The fusion menu features Mediterranean fare, sushi and barbequed cuisine. It is worth noting that the food and drink prices throughout the hotel are very fair considering the service and food is of such a high standard. We opted to dine at The Grill; it’s relaxed off-piste vibe makes it an ideal spot for a hearty breakfast pre-ski session and their breakfast buffet ticks all the boxes. As well as healthy options, enjoy homemade pastries and artisan cheese platters, smoked salmon and fresh fruit, as well as hot dishes made to order. Game and fondue feature strongly on the dinner menu, as well as Caviar de Riofrio, the only organic caviar in the world, which is produced not far from Sierra Nevada. The service was what can only be described as impeccable and the sommelier paired the wines beautifully, picking out slightly lesser known varieties for us to try.
In true luxury style, El Lodge can arrange everything from ski lessons to guides and offers a complimentary chauffeur service. The outdoor pool, sauna, hammam and whirlpool make finishing your day a joy and the spa, boasting treatments with Babor skincare, are designed to revitalise your body after a long day on the slopes. Try the effective back relaxation treatment that starts with a mud wrap to warm muscles for better penetration during massage.
Whether you are travelling with friends, as a couple or as a family, El Lodge offers luxury at the highest level.
www.ellodge.com