Hotel Garni Sunshine

The bass from the club below Hotel Garni Sunshine is so strong that the furniture vibrates. No matter which room you're in, it's impossible to sleep or rest. The hotel bar in the main building across the street routinely gives room keys to guests who've had enough. I had two single rooms for myself and my daughter, and we moved during the night to the parent hotel, Hotel Liebe Sonne. There, at least, we could sleep, as long as we kept the windows shut. The double room at Hotel Liebe Sonne cost more than a third extra per night compared with the two single rooms at Garni Sunshine. It was spacious and comfortable and included half-board, but we couldn't use that meal service because of the overnight move. I expected compensation for the service we missed. The reception ladies were neither friendly nor understanding when I tried to discuss the payment. They may not have had room to negotiate and were probably tired of dealing with upset guests, but it was still a shame. We left with a very negative memory, and our enjoyment of skiing in Sölden was diminished. We'll never stay there again. In previous years we've had much better luck at other hotels in the same town. I should have read Google reviews more carefully, since many guests had already rated the accommodation poorly for the same reasons.

For the price level in Sölden, this place is a great deal. The breakfast was excellent, and we loved being able to use the spa across the street. It gave us short walks to the lift and lots of nearby facilities, and we enjoyed our stay enough to book again in a heartbeat. I only read the reviews after booking and was worried, but I can't say the noise is only from the bar downstairs. The street is noisy, though I think you hear that at other hotels too. It's not a luxury hotel, and I wouldn't pick it for a wellness holiday with my family.

Breakfast at the Hotel Liebe Sonne across the street left nothing to be desired, and the spa and sauna there were available for a small extra fee. Just note the lights go out promptly at 8 p.m., with no further notice. Room service was excellent, and we could park in the underground garage without any trouble, which helped since public spaces are hard to find. Our ski room had lockable lockers for two people's gear and boot warmers. The location by the Giggijoch gondola is fantastic, with nightlife and après-ski right outside, which can be a blessing or a curse. The entrance is in the middle of the party scene, so female guests should know that getting home often takes a flirtatious approach. Disco sounds were audible, but the river through our open window drowned out the bass, and we slept peacefully.

It's a great spot if you want to party, though the loud music may bother early risers. The location is excellent, breakfast was excellent, and the staff were very friendly. Our room was a little smaller than it looked in the pictures, but it was still adequate. We'd book again.