Leni Mountain Appartements and Chalet
The Austrian Tyrol is a spectacular part of the world, with outstanding natural beauty capable of rejuvenating the mind and body at any time of the year. It is also the idyllic home of Marco Arnold and his family, who live in the prominent ski resort of Sölden on the Italian border and are devoted to bringing refinement to the rugged outdoors. They are the owners of Leni Mountain Appartements & Chalet, as well as a popular mountain café and bar and the local Cervo Restaurant.
“Sölden is famed for world-class skiing, but it also has fantastic hiking, downhill mountain-biking and lots of other outdoor activities in summer, for all ages and abilities,” says Marco. For those seeking sun, fresh air and mountain scenery, there are 30 kilometres of signposted hiking trails, well-maintained trails for mountain bikes and e-bikes, as well as guided rock climbing.
Sölden’s extended tourist season, from winter to summer, is the result of a concerted effort by the community to sustain local businesses and employment for the next generation, an initiative close to Marco’s heart. “My parents are in hospitality, so I’ve grown up in this sector. I trained at a prominent establishment in nearby Innsbruck and returned to Sölden to establish my own offering, which I now run with my wife and three daughters. We’re all passionate about preserving the region’s beauty and way of life, so we’ve always done everything we can to support the natural environment and our community.”
Though rooted in Sölden, Marco enjoys travel and is well versed in luxury tourism. This, and his illustrious training, is reflected throughout the Leni Mountain provision. Marco’s approach embodies the true meaning of hospitality. He and his family take genuine pride in helping their guests to get the most from their time in the Tyrol. “We’re always evolving to elevate the experience for our guests,” says Marco.
The family started the business in 2016 with their traditional, standard ski-in ski-out apartments for between two and 12 guests, which they plan to upgrade in line with their luxury offering. In 2020, they opened the luxurious four-bedroom summer chalet. This private hideaway is on a mountain high above Sölden, with breathtaking panoramas of the valley from the balconies, terraces and spa. The latter, complete with sauna and loungers for relaxing, overlooks the chalet’s beautiful and environmentally friendly natural swimming pool. The spacious wooden interior comes with a cosy fireplace and large dining table where guest can enjoy a private lunch or dining experience. The family’s newest accommodation is an all-seasons luxury lodge, comprising four different-sized apartments and an indoor pool.
Marco’s concierge service, with his local knowledge and connections, is second to none and takes care of requests that range from excursions to thermal pools to reserving a table at a sought-after restaurant. Chalet and lodge guests have transfers to their residence, well- equipped accommodation and help with everything they need to ease themselves into mountain holiday mode. In addition to their own kitchen, they have access to private chefs and personalised catering packages, as well as spa treatments and wellness experiences, from massages to private yoga classes.
“Our guests want for nothing when they stay with us, and that is what sets us apart,” says Marco. “We offer the quality of a leading hotel, in private, elegant and authentic alpine accommodation, with a devotion to service that can only be provided by a family-run business.”