Renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery, decadent chocolate, world-class winter sports and quaint villages, Switzerland is one of the most spectacular countries to visit in Europe. And for the wealthy, staying in an opulent castle hotel or alpine resort is the only way to holiday in the landlocked country.
Etched into mountainsides or perched beside serene lakes, these grand hotels look like they’ve been taken straight out of a fairytale. From castle-like heritage hotels to sleek and modern resorts, these five-star Swiss stays have earned the praise of even the most seasoned travellers. Because, beyond the impeccable interiors and jaw-dropping natural scenery, these hotels provide the ultimate Swiss holiday where fine dining, luxe day spas and sophisticated guest suites are all just part of the experience.
Gstaad Palace, Gstaad
Nestled between awe-inspiring mountains, this five-star hotel looks like something out of a fairytale. One of the few remaining family-run grand hotels in Switzerland, Gstaad Palace has been charming guests with its castle-like grandeur since 1913.
In the summer, Gstaad Palace offers an Olympic-sized heated swimming pool to take a dip in after a spot of tennis. And of course, when it’s time to unwind, the Palace Spa is the place to go. Meanwhile, during the winter months, guests can enjoy snow-capped alpine views, a tour of La Fromagerie, a fondue restaurant housed in a former bunker and an evening of authentic alpine cuisine at Walig Hut.
The Chedi Andermatt, Andermatt
Situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps, The Chedi Andermatt is regarded as one of the best and most scenic hotels in Europe. Featuring sleek Asian-style elements and a touch of Alpine chic, this five-star hotel features 123 elegant rooms and suites, multiple dining options, a cigar library, a luxurious day spa and an indoor swimming pool.
Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, guests at The Chedi Andermatt can enjoy hiking through the mountains and golfing during the summer. In the colder months, the hotel transforms into a luxurious and picturesque winter wonderland that makes for the perfect base for a ski holiday. Serviced by a ski bus, guests can easily access the area’s number of slopes and wrap up the day beside a crackling fire.
Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa, Lausanne
Dating back to 1909, Royal Savoy Hotel & Spa in Lausanne has long been the hotel of choice amongst the rich and famous. Comprising 196 stunning rooms and suites, as well as a cigar lounge, chic brasserie and spa, Royal Savoy Hotel offers a luxurious haven to return to after exploring the vibrant city of Lausanne.
Capturing exceptional 360-degree views, Royal Savoy’s SkyLounge offers the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail while taking in those postcard vistas of Lake Geneva.
Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina
Filled with stunning neo-baroque architecture, this palatial historic hotel boasts more than 170 years of history and a stunning location in the Swiss Alps. A landmark in its own right, this grand hotel features opulent interiors, gourmet restaurants, a sophisticated bar and smokers lounge, a state-of-the-art spa and luxurious rooms and suites.
Surrounded by Pontresina’s scenic valley scapes, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities and sightseeing to enjoy while staying in this picturesque Swiss town. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy some 350 kilometres of pistes and around 200 kilometres of cross-country ski trails.
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, St. Moritz
Located in the luxury alpine resort town of St. Moritz, Badrutt’s Palace Hotel dates back to 1896 and still features that traditional fairytale-like charm and elegance. Exuding grace and elegance, each of the hotel’s 156 guest rooms and suites captures idyllic views of the lake or quaint village centre.
During the winter months, Badrutt’s Palace serves as a lavish base to enjoy the town’s world-class winter sports, where after a long day of skiing you can relax with a massage at Palace Wellness and enjoy a dip in the incredible indoor infinity pool. As for dining, the hotel boasts a two Michelin star restaurant called IGNIV, as well as a number of other dining destinations and three chic bars.
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