Teetering over the Ötztal Alps in Sölden, and merging seamlessly with its dramatic natural surroundings, the ice Q Restaurant is one of Austria’s most majestic buildings. Designed by architects at Innsbruck-based Obermoser, the structure sits at 3048 metres (1.9 miles) above sea level, with a 900-square-metre (9700-square-foot), all-encompassing glass façade, offering visitors completely uninterrupted panoramic views of the mountainous landscape. So impressive is its beauty, that the structure was selected as a set location for 007, appearing in the 2015 James Bond film, Spectre.
A true gem of modern architecture, ice Q Restaurant is a staggering monument to admire. The mountain on which ice Q resides, Gaislachkogl, first became accessible in 1966, with a cable car that went to the summit. More than 50 years later, and after realising the potential of the dazzling views, construction began on ice Q, for a restaurant with the greatest views in all of Austria. The building features 130 seats inside and 82 seats on a rooftop terrace that enjoys staggering panoramic views.
Enjoy the breathtaking views | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
The modern and elegant glass exterior of the restaurant | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
Aside from the incredible views, the ice Q is also worth a visit for the delicious gourmet food and local wines. Summit dining is available every Wednesday evening, and costs around €122 per head. You’ll also be dining in the same spot where Bond villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld, played by Austrian actor Christoph Waltz, conducted his evil plot in Spectre.
Fine dining at the highest heights | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
Take the ski lift to the top | © Alexander Lohmann
Aerial view of the restaurant | © Markus Bstieler
Enjoy summit dining with incredible views | © Rudi Wyhlida / ice Q
The restaurant offers panoramic views | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
The impressive exterior | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
The road leading to the restaurant with the best views in Austria | © Rudi Wyhlidal / ice Q
ice Q Restaurant, Gaislachkogl Bergstation, Dorfstraße 115, Sölden, Austria, +43 664 9609368