The Italian Alpine town of Bormio has been attracting visitors for centuries thanks to its revitalising hot springs, magnificent scenery and good skiing, and there is now another reason to add to the list – the Eden Hotel.

A modern eco-friendly construction of a pleasant greyish wood, glass and stone, it’s actually four buildings in sequence linked by walkways to break up the sheer size of the place. The units are tall and thin, with large but irregular windows affording views of the surroundings. The architects from Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel and partners have aimed for, and successfully delivered, a homely effect, albeit the home of an interior designer with a higher income than most; the hotel has a comfortable feel while still offering that quality of holiday specialness.

While the guest rooms are very woody, they aren’t the old mountain chalet style. This is principally due to their high ceilings and contemporary fixtures, and the bathrooms are especially up-to-the-minute. Nicely done.