Gstaad offers a mix of glamour, alpine chic, and rustic village atmosphere with its car-free walking streets and top luxury brand shops. It’s a perfect base for winter and summer activities. It’s easy to access via Gstaad Saanen Airport, but I highly recommend taking the train from Lausanne for a picturesque journey.
1. Gstaad Palace
2. The Alpina Gstaad
3. Le Grand Bellevue
4. Ultima Hotel Gstaad
5. Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel
1. Gstaad Palace
Conde Nast Traveler says, “Driving through the Bernese valleys, climbing up the steep and bendy roads, there’s an extraordinary moment when you first see the Palace on the hill. The magic of it – the vertiginous proportions, the sparklingness of it all – are at the same time fairy-tale pastiche and timeless classic. There’s a magnetic allure; families have been coming here for generations – the hotel first opened in 1913 – along with fallen royals, fashion designers and film stars. It’s louche and glittery but still rarefied.”
Penthouse Suite
The 2,550-sq.ft. three-bedroom Penthouse Suite is accessed by private elevator. It includes warm fabrics in pastel colors, leather and well-kept wooden floors. The terrace surrounds the suite. Enjoy your private sauna and whirlpool on the terrace.
More suites at Gstaad Palace.
2. The Alpina Gstaad
Forbes Travel Guide says, “The Alpina Gstaad sits on prime alpine real estate. Just a 10-minute walk from Gstaad village, the sprawling five-acre property crowns the top of Oberbort, an exclusive hill perched beside a pristine mountain panorama. The Alpina’s contemporary design doesn’t neglect a sense of place. Playful nods to Swiss culture are incorporated everywhere, from glass sculptures simulating icicles dotting the hallways to cinematic photos of the Alps. The golden pine integrated throughout the property is largely recycled wood from old Austrian, Swiss and French farms, adding a glowing, classic patina to the Alpina’s sleek contemporary design. The sprawling Six Senses Spa offers everything from locavore Swiss services (an alpine anti-aging facial) to Asian-inspired treatments (think Himalayan salt scrub). The serene subterranean pool adds an extra level of Zen.”
Penthouse Residence
The 5,600-sq.ft. Penthouse Residence offers far-reaching views over our secluded Alpine landscape. Located in a completely private area of the hotel it is situated on the top two floors of the residences and can accommodate 12 guests in its five spacious rooms. The ultra-large and high-ceiling living room offers the perfect space for families with a main lounge, a dining area with a fireplace and a library on the mezzanine all connected to a kitchen with private access. Two private studios are additionally provided for your traveling staff.
More suites at The Alpina Gstaad.
3. Le Grand Bellevue
Conde Nast Traveler writes, “The 1912-built Le Grand Bellevue is as classic as it gets, but the walls behind its grand entrance are anything but dated and evoke the feeling of being in a timelessly eclectic townhouse – with a better backdrop. It’s nestled in the Vaud Alps, a fairytale region whose architectural regulations have ensured that the postcard-perfect landscape will remain unchanged. Its well-being offering is the star of the show, and fitness facilities include everything from a light-filled Pilates studio to a SensoPro trainer, though it seems crazy to spend a second of cardio time inside. Luckily, the hotel’s Heli-hiking, padel court and exclusive access to the Swiss Open tennis centre court give guests many ways to break a sweat beyond the sauna. In an era of “the next best thing”, what makes Le Grand Spa different is an unapologetic yet unstubborn homage to tradition.”
Suite Le Grand Bellevue
The 1,950-sq.ft. suite offers alpine views via floor-to-ceiling windows spread across two floors.
More suites at Le Grand Bellevue.
4. Ultima Hotel Gstaad
The Telegraph reports, “It is somewhere between super yacht and ultra-luxe chalet. Glass and marble panels spliced by ancient wood from across Europe scintillate beside deliciously beautiful velvets, leathers, furs and silks, custom-made by labels including Louis Vuitton and Hermès. Complementing this tangible opulence are a tumbling crystal light installation and a glass grand piano – one of two in the world; the other is owned by Alicia Keys. Yet the splendor masks an undertone of anonymity: the façade is not branded; the striking modern art and sculptures throughout are sourced from an unnamed Dutch gallery; and veiled corners grant guests privacy.”
Royal Residence
The 2,780-sq.ft. three-bedroom residence includes a working fireplace, balcony with dining for up to eight and a full gourmet kitchen.
More suites at Ultima Hotel Gstaad.
5. Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel
The Telegraph says, “This luxury resort lives on the main street in Schönried, which is about 10 minutes from glamourous Gstaad village. Undoubtedly Swiss – this gorgeous hotel takes on the vibe of a luxury ski lodge. Ermitage has a warm and inviting décor that pairs perfectly with those sublime Alpine views. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the Bärgblick (‘Panorama Hall’) alongside reception enhance the already grand, sophisticated space, which embraces guests the moment they step inside. Staff at reception don traditional Swiss dress, a reminder that you are indeed in the Canton of Bern.”
Wellness Suite
The 750-sq.ft. suite separate living and sleeping area with balcony. Two additional beds are available on the gallery above the living room.
More suites at Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel.