So, although I may not look quite as suave on the slopes as Daniel Craig, I am genuinely following in the tracks of my favourite spy.
With its rugged peaks, pristine pine forests and stunning panoramic views, it is easy to understand why the jaw-dropping alpine setting in the Oetz Valley was chosen as a backdrop for the 24th film of the Bond franchise.
Soelden oozes the elegance, luxury, charm and sophistication that have become synonymous with Bond movies since the first, Dr No, in 1962.
The most spectacular location I find on my Bond pilgrimage is Ice Q, a dazzling glass structure that sticks out of the mountain 3048m above sea level.
It is normally a high-end restaurant, lounge and terrace where skiers and snowboarders recharge their batteries as they look out across the Tyrol region of the Alps, over fine wines and gourmet food.
I am told all the usual furniture was cleared out and even senior Ice Q staff were kept away during filming.
It is late April when I visit and the film crews have left, along with most of the tourists.
But the altitude of Soelden's glaciers means winter sports enthusiasts can ski and snowboard long past the end of the traditional season, so I have the luxury of sunny weather and the slopes to myself.
Despite the warm temperatures, the snow feels great under my skis, with none of the slush that can blight many ski areas so late in the season.
My lodgings for the trip are at Das Central, a luxurious alpine hotel geared up as much for exploring the mountainous countryside on its doorstep as pampering and indulgence.
With all manner of treatments on offer, guests can ease their aching muscles after hitting the slopes at its Venice-themed Water World, which is set over three floors with 10 different saunas — and even a full-size gondola.
James Bond would feel perfectly at home here but for now I'm happy to be his stunt double.
CHECKLIST
Getting there: Emirates flies daily from Auckland to Vienna in Austria.
- AAP
