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Hotel Meisser, Guarda, Engadine
Guarda is one of those special places that you will never want to leave. So idyllic is it that it provided the setting for a Swiss fairy tale, and it quickly seduces you with its old-world charm. At the heart of the village lies the 3-star Hotel Meisser, a fittingly romantic hotel that makes a delightful base from which to appreciate the magic of winter. You are warmly welcomed by English-speaking Benno Meisser, the fifth generation of the family to run the hotel, and his partner, Maya Aebli. There is a real sense of history here – the hotel was converted from a 17th-century farmhouse – and the family has created a wonderfully intimate and relaxed atmosphere over the years. The use of light wood throughout the hotel is both stylish and cosy. Rooms: There are just 18 bedrooms, a fact which serves to increase the hotel’s sense of intimacy. No two rooms are the same – all are individually decorated and have different outlooks, though most rooms face eastwards. Some enjoy superb views of the valley and a small handful (available as an upgrade) boast a balcony. Your room may have either a shower or a bath, but all are equipped with a minibar, hairdryer and telephone. Facilities: Relax in either the library-cum-lounge or the atmospheric bar (complete with billiards, darts and a wide selection of wines) in an annexe across the road. Restaurant: The magnificent restaurant was once the farm’s hay barn, but nowadays provides the setting for both breakfast and the four-course dinner of delicate and well-crafted cuisine that features plenty of local game throughout the winter. A fondue is also included during your stay. Skiing and other winter activities: The emphasis here is on the fantastic snow-shoeing and winter walking – these are ideal ways to enjoy the winter enchantment of exquisite Guarda and its surroundings. From the village, you can set out directly across the slopes and snowy meadows, marvelling at the sweeping views down towards the river below and hopefully spotting lots of wildlife. Benno and Maya are keen walkers themselves and lead weekly snow-shoe excursions. Another relaxed way to appreciate your surroundings is by horse-drawn sleigh, and we include a ride in a neighbouring village during your stay. You can even try your hand at curling – there is a rink near the hotel. If you do fancy some skiing, head to Scuol, a 25-minute bus and train ride away, which offers 77 kilometres of cross-country trails and 80 kilometres of downhill pistes, the latter of which are mostly for beginners and intermediates. Scuol is a spa town, and you could treat yourselves to a few hours in the Bogn Engadine Spa with its steam room, sauna and heated outdoor pool. For stays starting between 5 and 27 January 2008 inclusive, we include a rail pass that entitles every adult to two free train rides, one free cable-car ride and half-price fares on any other journeys so that you can explore the region further. Outside these dates, travel to Scuol and other villages should be paid for locally. The village: Widely considered to be the Engadine’s best preserved village, tranquil Guarda perches high on the slopes of this idyllic valley, affording broad views down to the valley floor and across to the jagged peaks on the other side. The ancient cobbled streets transport you back in time, lined as they are with typical Engadine houses built of stone, with deep-set windows and delicate pastel murals. There is just a small handful of shops and cafés. Snow-shoeing weeks: We include three guided excursions of around four hours each, plus a horse-drawn sleigh ride followed by a fondue. On free days, you can head out by yourselves – we include snow-shoe rental for the whole week, and Benno and Maya will be delighted to advise you on the best areas to explore. No previous experience of snow-shoeing is required. Winter walking weeks: Our arrangements include two guided walks and one snow-shoe excursion led by either Benno or Maya, plus a horse-drawn sleigh ride followed by a fondue. With over 130 kilometres of specially prepared winter walking paths in the valley, you have plenty to discover during the rest of the week, and can explore further afield using the train (rail pass included in January; pay locally other dates). Prices & Travel:
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Hotel Meisser 
