On Christmas Eve in 1838, Austrian-born hotelier Johannes Baur opened the Baur en Ville on Paradeplatz. Baur had arrived in Zurich years earlier and went on to become one of the pioneers of the city’s luxury hotel scene. His new hotel was Zurich’s first grand hotel, bringing a level of hospitality to the city that was still relatively novel at the time.

Over the decades, the hotel became part of the fabric of Zurich, welcoming guests including Charles Dickens, Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner. Even its rooftop has a history: back in 1838, the hotel’s Belvédère was among the world’s earliest rooftop bars, complete with orange trees and a system that allowed orders to be sent down to the kitchen through a speaking tube.

Nearly two centuries later, the hotel began another chapter. In December 2023, it reopened as the Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich following an extensive renovation.

And I think that history is essential to understanding what makes the hotel so special.

This doesn’t feel like Mandarin Oriental simply opened a new luxury hotel in an old building. There is a constant conversation between old and new. Historical details have been effortlessly incorporated into the contemporary interiors rather than separated or treated like museum pieces. You notice them as you move through the hotel—from preserved clocks to the dramatic chandelier behind the lobby—alongside contemporary furnishings and design, including a rotating art collection featuring artists from Art Basel.

The result feels fresh, but with nearly two centuries of history behind it.

And despite being part of one of the world’s best-known luxury hotel groups, the Mandarin Oriental feels surprisingly boutique. There are just 80 rooms and suites, and that intimacy completely changes the experience.

It has the polish and service of a Mandarin Oriental, but the character and intimacy of a historic European hotel.

Location & Setting

The location is about as good as it gets in Zurich.

The hotel sits directly on Paradeplatz, one of Zurich’s most famous squares and the heart of the city’s financial district. It is also one of the city’s major tram hubs, so getting almost anywhere in Zurich from here is incredibly easy.

Just off the square is Bahnhofstrasse, Zurich’s famous shopping boulevard and one of Europe’s best-known luxury shopping streets. The mile-long avenue stretches from Zurich’s main train station toward Lake Zurich and is lined with everything from Swiss watchmakers and international fashion houses to cafés, restaurants and department stores.

Staying at the Mandarin Oriental puts all of this quite literally outside your front door. The Old Town and Lake Zurich are also within easy walking distance, which means that for a short stay in particular, you can experience a huge amount of the city without spending much time in taxis or cars.

But what I loved most was the contrast between the location and the atmosphere inside.

Paradeplatz is one of the busiest parts of central Zurich, yet the moment you step inside the Mandarin Oriental, the pace changes. The hotel feels quiet and intimate. There isn’t an enormous lobby or the constant flow of people you sometimes find at city grand hotels. Instead, it feels almost residential.

Accommodations

If the history was what initially drew me into the Mandarin Oriental, the rooms were perhaps the biggest surprise of my stay.

Space is a luxury anywhere, but particularly in Zurich, where so many hotels are small and boutique. At the Mandarin Oriental, the rooms and suites feel almost unexpectedly large.

Our suite was incredibly spacious and pampering, with huge closets, a generous living area and enough separation between the different spaces that it felt more like an apartment than a typical city hotel room. We could properly unpack, spread out and actually spend time in the room without feeling on top of one another.

And when you’re traveling with children—and all the luggage that comes with them—that extra space completely changes a stay.

It’s also what makes the Mandarin Oriental such a great option for families. There are connecting rooms as well as two-bedroom and larger suite configurations, so families can have the space to stay together. That’s surprisingly difficult to find in the center of a European city, particularly at a hotel that still feels this intimate.

But it wasn’t only the size of the rooms that stood out. It was how pampering they felt.

Beautiful Japanese-style kimonos hang in the closets, gorgeous bathrooms are stocked with Diptyque toiletries, and the complimentary minibar comes with Swiss chocolates and an assortment of nuts—including truffle cashews that are addictive! Then, at turndown, slippers are placed by the entrance, including tiny panda slippers for children.

It’s the kind of attention to detail that makes coming back to your room at the end of the day feel like part of the hotel experience itself.

And that’s perhaps what I liked most about the accommodations. You get the intimacy and personality of a small, historic hotel without having to compromise on space or comfort.

For families, this is a rare combination.

Dining

For such an intimate hotel, the Mandarin Oriental has an impressive dining scene, ranging from Michelin-starred Italian cooking to a rooftop bar overlooking the city.

ORSINI is the hotel’s Michelin-starred Italian restaurant, helmed by chef Dario Moresco. The restaurant also holds 17 GaultMillau points, making it a destination in its own right rather than simply the hotel’s fine-dining option. I didn’t get a chance to experience it as it was closed, but I interviewed the chef, and I think he has some of the best Zurich recommendations I’ve come across, so ORSINI is definitely at the top of my list for next time.

Savoy Brasserie & Bar is the restaurant you’ll probably interact with most during a stay. Breakfast is served here, and throughout the day it shifts into a French-inspired brasserie serving international classics alongside Swiss dishes, including Zurich’s classic Zürcher Geschnetzeltes.

I had dinner here, and the risotto was my personal favorite dish. I feel like many restaurants get it wrong, making it too soupy or soft, but here it was perfectly cooked, and you could actually taste the different ingredients.

If the weather is nice, I definitely recommend asking for a table outside on the Savoy Terrasse. It’s a great spot to linger over lunch or dinner and people-watch.

For something quieter, Mandarin Lounge is built around a fireplace and serves cocktails, light bites and afternoon tea during the cooler months. It has the same intimate quality as the rest of the hotel—the kind of place you can settle into for a drink after coming back from a day in the city.

Upstairs, 1838 is the hotel’s rooftop bar, named for the year the original hotel opened. Today, the rooftop looks out across Zurich and toward the surrounding Swiss Alps, with cocktails, wine and Asian-inspired dishes.

What I like about the dining here is that there is real variety without the hotel feeling like a collection of restaurants. You can have a destination dinner at ORSINI, an easy breakfast or lunch at the Brasserie, stop for a drink in the Lounge or head upstairs to the rooftop at sunset.

Service

As beautiful as the hotel is, the service is what stayed with me most.

It was incredibly personal and attentive from the moment we arrived. Staff members knew my name, greeted me as I walked through the lobby and seemed to pay attention to what we might need rather than simply waiting to be asked.

But there was one moment that summed it up better than anything else.

During a meal, my baby was sitting on my lap while I was trying to eat. Our waitress noticed me juggling the two, came over and offered to hold him so that I could eat in peace.

I have stayed at many luxury hotels, and I can’t remember experiencing that level of personal service before.

It wasn’t some elaborate gesture. She simply saw that I could use a hand and offered one.

Another time, we were heading outside when someone at the front desk noticed that it was chilly and immediately offered us a blanket for the baby.

Those are the moments I remember from a hotel.

There is polished service, where everything is delivered exactly as it should be, and then there is hospitality that feels instinctive. The Mandarin Oriental falls into the latter category.

I also think the hotel’s size plays a role. With only 80 rooms and suites, you don’t disappear into it. People remember you. By the time you’ve been there for a little while, there is an ease to the interactions that feels closer to staying at a great independent boutique hotel than at an international luxury brand.

For me, that level of attention was one of the highlights of the entire stay.

Who It’s Best For

The Mandarin Oriental Savoy is for travelers who want to experience Zurich from the middle of everything, but still want their hotel to feel intimate.

For a first visit to the city, the location is hard to beat. Bahnhofstrasse is outside the door, the Old Town and lake are within walking distance, and you can spend much of your stay exploring Zurich on foot.

It’s also an excellent choice for couples who gravitate toward smaller, design-driven hotels but don’t want to give up the service and comforts of a major luxury property. The Mandarin Oriental Savoy manages to deliver both.

But I think families may be the hotel’s sleeper audience.

This isn’t a resort or a hotel built around children. There is no kids’ club or sprawling pool complex. Instead, what it offers families is something that can be far more valuable on a European city trip: space, connecting accommodations and a staff that genuinely welcomes children. The hotel offers connecting rooms and dedicated family configurations, alongside child-friendly touches such as kids’ menus, slippers and other in-room amenities.

You can travel with your children without feeling as though you’ve chosen a children’s hotel.

Parents still get Michelin-starred dining, beautiful interiors, rooftop drinks and a sophisticated atmosphere. The kids simply fit into the experience.

And finally, I think the Mandarin Oriental Savoy is for travelers who care about where they’re staying as much as where they’re going.

Zurich has plenty of luxury hotels. What sets this one apart is that the building itself tells part of the city’s story. You are staying somewhere that has been welcoming travelers since 1838, but in a hotel that, after its 2023 reopening, feels entirely of the present.

That combination of history, intimacy, space and incredible personal service is what makes the Mandarin Oriental Savoy such a special place to stay in Zurich.

Few hotels are as closely connected to their destination as Badrutt’s Palace is to St. Moritz. With its instantly recognizable tower rising above Lake St. Moritz, the hotel has become one of the defining images of the town.

The location is exceptional. Badrutt’s Palace sits in the center of St. Moritz on Via Serlas, surrounded by the town’s luxury boutiques and within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, and the lake. At the same time, the hotel overlooks the mountains and the beautiful Engadin Valley, so the experience never feels overly urban.

The views are absolutely breathtaking. From the lake-facing side of the hotel, you can see across Lake St. Moritz toward the forests, mountains, and small villages scattered throughout the valley. The scenery changes constantly depending on the weather and time of day, from bright blue water and clear mountain views to clouds hanging low over the lake.

But it is the hotel itself that makes the greatest first impression.

Badrutt’s Palace is an immediate wow from the moment you walk through the doors. The entrance is grand and dramatic, with soaring ceilings, dark wood, chandeliers, antique furniture, enormous flower arrangements, and beautiful historic details everywhere you look.

Many hotels take time to reveal what makes them special. At Badrutt’s Palace, you understand immediately.

Location & Setting

Originally opened in 1896, the hotel has welcomed generations of royalty, actors, artists, and some of the world’s most prominent families. Alfred Hitchcock was a regular guest, and former guests have also included Audrey Hepburn, Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich, and Coco Chanel.

What I loved most, however, is that Badrutt’s has retained its original personality. It feels wonderfully old-school in a way that has become extremely rare. So many historic hotels have been renovated until almost everything distinctive about them has disappeared. Badrutt’s Palace has evolved over the years, but it has not sacrificed its identity.

The hotel is filled with carved ceilings, tapestries, antique furnishings, archival photographs, fireplaces, chandeliers, and rich wood paneling. There is no attempt to make every space feel neutral, minimalist, or fashionable. You could never mistake it for another hotel.

The heart of the property is Le Grand Hall, often described as the living room of St. Moritz. The enormous room overlooks the lake and mountains and is filled with comfortable seating, beautiful flowers, and live music.

Despite its grandeur, Le Grand Hall is not simply a formal lobby guests walk through. It is somewhere people genuinely spend time. Guests gather for coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, cocktails, and light meals throughout the day, often remaining for hours.

That balance between grandeur and comfort is one of the things Badrutt’s does exceptionally well. The hotel feels glamorous and full of occasion, but it never made us feel uncomfortable arriving with a five-year-old and a 14-month-old.

The hotel also begins taking care of you before you arrive. Ahead of our stay, the team called me to discuss restaurant reservations and help arrange activities for the children. I did not have to chase the concierge, research every option myself, or arrive only to discover that the restaurants or Kids Club were already fully booked.

That level of pre-arrival attention set the tone for our entire stay. Badrutt’s Palace understands that true luxury is not only about how beautiful a hotel looks. It is also about anticipating what guests might need and making the entire trip feel effortless.

Accommodations

Badrutt’s Palace offers two different styles of accommodations: the classically designed rooms and suites inside the original palace and the much newer accommodations in the Serlas Wing.

The rooms in the historic palace are more traditional, with elegant paneling, soft colors, beautiful fabrics, and decorative details that feel connected to the age and character of the hotel. They are grand without feeling excessively formal and have the kind of personality you expect from a hotel with this much history.

The newer Serlas Wing was designed by Italian architect Antonio Citterio and offers a much more contemporary interpretation of Alpine luxury. Its rooms and suites feel more residential and understated, with natural materials, clean architectural lines, and Loro Piana fabrics used throughout the interiors.

The Serlas Wing is located across the road but is connected to the original palace by an underground passage. The passage also provides easy access to Chesa Veglia and the luxury boutiques along Via Serlas, which is particularly useful during the cold and snow of winter.

The contrast between the two buildings allows guests to choose between two very different experiences. I would recommend the original palace for travelers who want to feel completely immersed in the history and old-world atmosphere of Badrutt’s. Those who prefer more modern and understated accommodations may be happier in the Serlas Wing.

Regardless of which building you choose, I would prioritize a lake-facing room whenever possible. The views over Lake St. Moritz and the mountains are such an important part of the experience that I think they are worth choosing over additional interior space.

Room categories range from double rooms to enormous multi-bedroom suites. Many suites can be connected to additional rooms, making the hotel particularly practical for families and multi-generational trips. Suites also include butler service.

For a hotel this historic, the accommodations are exceptionally comfortable and functional. The rooms provide generous storage, beautiful bathrooms, extremely comfortable beds, and twice-daily housekeeping.

But while the rooms are suitably luxurious, Badrutt’s Palace is much more than a hotel where you spend most of the trip inside your accommodation. The public spaces, restaurants, spa, pool, and children’s facilities are such a major part of the experience that you will probably spend very little time in your room.

Dining

I have sometimes found the food at luxury hotels in Switzerland disappointing, particularly in relation to the prices. The hotels themselves may be beautiful, but the food has not always been especially memorable.

That was absolutely not the case at Badrutt’s Palace.

The food throughout our stay was amazing, and one of the restaurants worked so perfectly for our family that we ended up eating there every day.

La Diala is located in the Palace Wellness area, close to the pool and directly beside the Palazzino Kids Club. In summer, guests can eat outside on the restaurant’s beautiful terrace overlooking the gardens, lake, and mountains.

We had both lunch and dinner there every day.

The menu focuses on fresh Mediterranean food, including salads, soups, pasta dishes, and a selection of fresh juices and drinks. The food feels light and healthy enough to enjoy after the pool but is still satisfying and genuinely delicious.

The outdoor setting is absolutely beautiful, but with two young children, the location was equally important. We could move easily between the restaurant, pool, playground, and Kids Club without having to bring everyone through the entire hotel each time.

La Diala is open from late morning until the early evening during the summer season, which also makes it particularly convenient for families who prefer to eat dinner early. Its name means “mountain fairy” in Romansh, and the restaurant is specifically designed to be family-friendly, with its own outdoor playground.

Normally, when a hotel has numerous restaurants, I want to try as many as possible. At Badrutt’s, La Diala was so convenient, the terrace was so enjoyable, and the food was so consistently good that we were genuinely happy to return every day.

The hotel also has an impressive collection of other restaurants and bars.

Breakfast is served at Le Restaurant, a grand dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Lake St. Moritz and the mountains. The breakfast experience feels wonderfully old-school, complete with live harp music.

The buffet includes an extensive selection of pastries, breads, fruit, cheeses, smoked fish, yogurts, cereals, and options for children, while eggs and other hot dishes can be ordered from the kitchen. The room itself makes breakfast feel like an occasion, and it is worth leaving enough time to enjoy it properly rather than rushing out for the day.

Le Grand Hall serves lunch, afternoon tea, drinks, and light meals throughout the day. Even if you do not have a full meal there, it is worth stopping for coffee or a glass of wine simply to experience the atmosphere.

Across the road from the main hotel is Chesa Veglia, a historic Engadin farmhouse containing several dining spaces. Pizzeria Heuboden is located in the former hayloft and serves wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and Italian classics in a cozy, rustic setting.

For a more formal dinner, Le Relais serves contemporary French cuisine in a romantic Belle Époque dining room overlooking the lake. The restaurant is also known for its traditional tableside service.

La Coupole–Matsuhisa is located beneath the glass dome of the hotel’s former indoor tennis hall and serves Nobuyuki Matsuhisa’s signature Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. The menu includes sushi, sashimi, tiraditos, black cod, and a selection of hot dishes.

The hotel also operates Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant, located high above St. Moritz and reached by chairlift, hiking, or e-bike. It is known for its expansive mountain views and lively atmosphere.

There are enough restaurants at Badrutt’s Palace that guests could easily dine somewhere different every day. I would, however, make reservations in advance, particularly during the busiest periods.

Again, this is something the hotel handled beautifully. The team contacted me before our arrival and helped organize the restaurant reservations most suitable for our family. Instead of spending the first day of the trip figuring out where we could eat with the children, everything had already been arranged.

Facilities & Experiences

The facilities at Badrutt’s Palace are exceptional, but the pool is easily one of the greatest highlights of the entire hotel.

Palace Wellness has a 25-meter indoor pool connected to an outdoor infinity pool overlooking the surrounding trees and mountains. The indoor section is built around a dramatic natural granite rock, but it is the heated outdoor section that makes the pool so special.

The outdoor pool is heated to approximately 35 degrees Celsius, meaning that you can enjoy it even when the weather outside is freezing.

St. Moritz can be very cold even during the summer, and the weather in the mountains can change quickly. But because the water is kept so warm, the pool is not dependent on having a beautiful, sunny day.

Swimming outside in perfectly warm water with the cold Alpine air around you and views of the mountains is unforgettable. The pool is truly to die for and one of the best hotel pools I have ever experienced.

Beyond the pools, Palace Wellness includes a Jacuzzi, saunas, steam facilities, relaxation areas, treatment rooms, and private spa suites. Treatments range from massages and facials to Ayurvedic therapies and beauty services.

There is also a Technogym fitness center, yoga, personal trainers, tennis courts, and a padel court. The Palace Coiffeur, the hotel’s longstanding hair salon, is another example of the old-school resort experience Badrutt’s has managed to preserve.

The most impressive family facility is the Palazzino Kids Club, which is probably the best hotel Kids Club I have ever come across.

I have stayed at many luxury hotels with children, and some Kids Clubs amount to little more than a small room with a few toys. Palazzino is completely different.

The space is large, bright, beautifully designed, and filled with activities children genuinely want to do. There are rooms for imaginative play, crafts and games, as well as areas for physical activity and a ball pit. During the summer, there is also an outdoor playground.

The supervised program is complimentary for hotel guests ages three to twelve and operates from morning until the evening, although advance reservations are required. Children younger than three can also use the facilities when accompanied by an adult.

The hours are incredibly generous and allow parents to use the spa, spend time at the pool, go shopping, or have lunch alone without having to arrange a separate babysitter each time.

The location of the Kids Club is also extremely well considered. It sits beside La Diala and close to the pool, meaning that families can spend much of the day within the same area of the hotel.

Our older child could enjoy the Kids Club while we remained nearby with the baby or had lunch outside at La Diala. That made the experience infinitely easier and more relaxing.

More than anything, the quality of Palazzino shows that the hotel takes families seriously. Children are not an afterthought at Badrutt’s Palace. The hotel has created facilities for them that are every bit as thoughtful and beautifully executed as those designed for adults.

The hotel’s attention to children also began before our arrival. When the team called me to help organize our restaurant reservations, they also discussed activities and arrangements for the children.

Traveling with young children involves so much planning that having the hotel proactively handle these details made a meaningful difference. By the time we arrived, the important reservations had already been arranged and we could simply begin enjoying the hotel.

That proactive, highly personal hospitality is part of what makes Badrutt’s Palace feel so wonderfully old-school. It is not only about the historic interiors, polished service, or grandeur of Le Grand Hall. It is about anticipating what guests need before they have to ask.

There is also an enormous amount to do beyond the hotel itself. Hiking and cycling routes begin nearby, and the concierge can arrange mountain bikes, road bikes, e-bikes, guides, and picnics. Guests can also go sailing, play golf, ride horses, try rafting or climbing, walk around Lake St. Moritz, explore the surrounding villages, or take the mountain railways and cable cars into the Engadin landscape.

During our stay, I met guests who were spending anywhere from two to five weeks at Badrutt’s Palace.

Initially, that sounded like a very long time to spend at one hotel. But after experiencing Badrutt’s, I completely understood it.

There is so much to do that it would be surprisingly easy to spend several weeks here without becoming bored. Between the pool, spa, Kids Club, restaurants, tennis and padel courts, and countless activities throughout the Engadin Valley, every day can feel completely different.

You can hike or bike through the mountains, spend an afternoon at the pool, have lunch outside at La Diala, walk around Lake St. Moritz, explore one of the neighboring villages, or simply remain at the hotel and enjoy Le Grand Hall.

I think this is extremely rare, even among the world’s best hotels. Many luxury properties are wonderful for two or three nights, but after that, you begin to feel ready to move on. Badrutt’s Palace is different. It has enough restaurants, facilities, activities, and atmosphere to sustain a much longer stay.

Meeting guests who were staying for two, three, and even five weeks may be the greatest testament to what the hotel has created. This is not simply a beautiful property that you experience for a few nights and then feel ready to leave. It is somewhere you can settle into, establish a routine, and continue discovering new things to do.

Badrutt’s Palace is one of the rare hotels that wows you the moment you enter and continues to impress throughout the stay. The pool is unforgettable, the Kids Club is one of the best I have ever encountered, the food is excellent, and the service begins before you even arrive.

But what makes the hotel truly special is its identity.

It feels like one of the last great old-school European palace hotels—a type of property that has become almost impossible to find. It has history, glamour, personality, and a real sense of occasion, yet it is also warm, fun, and incredibly welcoming to families.

Hotels like this are incredibly rare today. Badrutt’s Palace is not merely somewhere to stay while visiting St. Moritz. It is a destination in its own right and worth building an entire trip around.

There are hotels that stay with you because of one thing: an exceptional spa, a great restaurant, an unforgettable setting. The Dolder Grand is one of the rare hotels that has it all.

It is, without question, one of the most special hotels I’ve ever stayed at.

The hotel sits high above Zurich, surrounded by forest, with views stretching across the city, Lake Zurich and, on a clear day, all the way to the Alps. Yet it’s less than 20 minutes from central Zurich.

Once you arrive, though, it feels like a secluded resort in the middle of nature. You can spend the morning walking through the forest, the afternoon inside one of Europe’s most impressive hotel spas and the evening having dinner at a two-Michelin-starred restaurant, all while still being only minutes from the city.

And the arrival alone is memorable. As you wind your way uphill through the trees and the Dolder finally comes into view, with its pale façade and three distinctive towers rising above the forest, there is a real wow factor. It looks less like a city hotel and more like a castle from a storybook. It’s like entering a fairy tale.

But what impressed me most during my stay wasn’t just the architecture. It was how many things the Dolder does exceptionally well.

Luxury hotels often have one clear strength. You go to one for its spa, another for its restaurants, another for its location. At the Dolder, there is serious fine dining, a world-class wellness program, an art collection that could almost constitute a small museum, an extensive array of outdoor activities, and restaurants compelling enough that I would recommend them even if you weren’t staying at the hotel.

Setting & Location

The Dolder dates back to 1899, and much of its original character is still visible throughout the hotel, especially in the grand lobby and main building, with its soaring ceilings, ornate architectural details and sense of old-world grandeur. More than a century later, the original building was beautifully restored and expanded with two contemporary wings.

Calling the Dolder a Zurich hotel doesn’t quite capture its setting. Technically, you are in the city. Experientially, you feel as though you have escaped it, surrounded by forest high above central Zurich. And this means that you don’t have to choose between Zurich and a resort. You get both.

What’s also important to know is that getting into town is also much easier than the setting suggests. The hotel operates a complimentary shuttle between the property and central Zurich every 20 minutes. If you’re visiting Zurich primarily to shop, dine and spend every waking hour walking around the center, there are more convenient addresses. But if you want to experience Zurich and still feel that you’ve actually gone away, I think the Dolder’s location is difficult to beat.

Rooms & Suites

The contrast between old and new continues in the rooms and suites. Rooms and suites are spread between the historic main building and the contemporary wings, so the design changes depending on where you stay.

Of course, the rooms are as pampering as you can imagine, with plush king-size beds, luxurious toiletries, spacious sitting areas, separate showers and whirlpool bathtubs, and the list goes on. I stayed in a Junior Suite, and for me, the biggest highlight was the view. From the balcony, I could look directly over the Dolder’s fairy-tale entrance and out across Zurich, all the way to the Swiss Alps. The view is so beautiful, you could spend all day just looking at it.

Dining

Food isn’t an amenity at the Dolder. It is one of the reasons to come.

The hotel has four major restaurants and the Canvas Bar & Lounge. The Restaurant holds two Michelin stars and 19 GaultMillau points, MIKURIYA has 17 GaultMillau points, blooms has 16, and Saltz has 15.

During my stay, I ate at The Restaurant, Saltz and blooms. If you are in Zurich and love fine dining, I think The Restaurant is an absolute must, whether you are staying at the Dolder Grand or not.

The dining room is beautiful and classically elegant, with sweeping views high above Zurich. As you would expect at this level, the cooking is extremely precise. Every course felt meticulously executed, and the service operated at the level you expect from a two-star restaurant. But those weren’t the things I remembered most.

The wine pairing was the best I’ve ever had at a fine-dining restaurant, and I’ve been to more than a few. The wines were unbelievably delicious, and each one brought something different to the dish. It made the entire experience that much better.

The second surprise was the warmth. There are fine-dining restaurants where everything is technically perfect, yet you remain very aware that you are participating in a formal production. This didn’t feel that way. The experience at The Restaurant felt so personal and relaxed, almost as though we had been invited into someone’s home.

That is not something I’ve experienced at a restaurant operating at this level, and it was one of the reasons the meal was so special.

For guests who want an even more intimate experience, there is also a Chef’s Table inside the kitchen, where diners can watch Chef Heiko Nieder’s team prepare the meal from close range.

Breakfast was another highlight of my stay, and truthfully, I think it deserves far more attention than hotel breakfast usually gets.

I’ve stayed at several high-end hotels in Zurich, and I haven’t experienced another breakfast in the city like this one.

The spread at Saltz is enormous and generous: beautiful Swiss cheeses, fruits, juices, breads, pastries and everything you would expect from a serious breakfast buffet, supplemented by à-la-carte options. It isn’t just about having a huge amount of food; the quality is there across the board.

For the best experience, I recommend sitting on the terrace if the weather permits.

I haven’t eaten breakfast at every luxury hotel in Zurich, so I can’t claim to have tested them all. But among those I have experienced, this is the best hotel breakfast I’ve had in the city.

And importantly, you do not need to be staying at the Dolder to eat here. If you are visiting Zurich and want a beautiful breakfast experience, I would absolutely come up to the Dolder for it.

Saltz also functions as the hotel’s everyday restaurant, open from breakfast through dinner. During our stay, the food was excellent, there was a great children’s menu, and the wine and Champagne selection meant that it worked equally well for a family lunch or a more leisurely dinner.

Blooms, where Chef Heiko is also the chef, is completely different. I guarantee this is one of the most enchanting places you’ll ever have a meal. You are sitting outside at the edge of the forest, among vegetable beds, herbs and fruit bushes, many of which provide ingredients for the restaurant. The vegetarian and vegan menu focuses on regional, seasonal produce.

Of course, each of the dishes was delicious, but it’s the surroundings that make the experience so memorable. It’s intimate, quiet and incredibly beautiful, with the garden and forest becoming as much a part of the meal as the food itself.

Note that blooms is seasonal and entirely outdoors, this means that the schedule changes by the season and it only operates in dry weather.

For something more casual, Canvas Bar & Lounge is the place to see and be seen. Located just behind the lobby, it has a beautiful indoor lounge and, when the weather is good, an even better terrace.

It works equally well for coffee and dessert in the afternoon or cocktails later on. The hotel’s pastry team makes cakes, pastries and macarons in-house, including the signature Dolder Torte, and Canvas was named Switzerland’s best hotel bar in 2023.

But if the weather allows, I would absolutely sit outside. The terrace is one of the best places in the hotel for people-watching. Order a coffee, a glass of Champagne or a cocktail and watch the almost endless procession of extraordinary cars pulling up to the Dolder’s castle-like entrance.

Facilities & Activities

The award-winning Dolder Grand Spa is another reason the Dolder stands apart. At 4,000 square meters, it is enormous and ranks among the best hotel wellness spaces in Europe.

There is a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, steam rooms, relaxation areas and an outdoor terrace. The Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Spa areas each include their own sauna, steam bath, aroma pool, plunge pool and foot-bath facilities.

The important thing to know is that this isn’t a spa you visit only because you’ve booked a massage. You can easily spend half a day here without booking a single treatment. You can relax on the lounge chairs inside by the swimming pool, or head outdoors to the lounge chairs overlooking the surrounding forest. The spa is an experience in itself.

What’s also very convenient is that the spa is open from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., while hotel guests can access the fitness center 24 hours a day.

The Dolder is also a dream if you like to stay active when you travel. The gym is, of course, state-of-the-art, with Technogym machines, but some of the best options are right outside. Walk out of the building and you are in the forest. There are hiking and walking trails around the property, dedicated running routes, complimentary e-bikes and mountain bikes, nearby tennis and a nine-hole golf course. You can see the hotel’s full range of outdoor activities and Destination Dolder facilities here.

Art

The Dolder has one of the world’s most impressive art collections for a hotel. There are more than 100 works by around 90 artists throughout the property, including pieces by Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Keith Haring, Takashi Murakami and Fernando Botero. And what’s unique is that the art isn’t simply there as hotel decoration.

You see it everywhere as you walk through the property—through the lobby, on your way to dinner or even near the spa.

A nice touch is that the hotel encourages guests to actually engage with the collection. The artworks have QR codes that allow you to learn more about each artist and piece as you walk around. You can also explore the Dolder’s art and architecture collection before your stay.

Originally dating back nearly 1,000 years, Castello di Casole was once a historic castle and aristocratic estate, and the setting is absolutely breathtaking. Set high on a hill in the Tuscan countryside outside Siena, the property sits within more than 3,200 acres of privately owned land filled with vineyards, olive groves, cypress trees, forests, and rolling hills stretching endlessly in every direction.

The best hotels understand how important the arrival experience is, and Castello di Casole absolutely delivers from the very beginning. As you drive through the winding Tuscan roads toward the estate, the castle slowly appears above the landscape in the distance. Even before arriving, the views alone are stunning and create an incredibly memorable first impression.

The beauty of the grounds themselves is equally unforgettable. Belmond properties are known for their gardens, but Castello di Casole’s are genuinely among the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. Near the main entrance and check-in area, stunning rose gardens overflow with color and fragrance, while the rest of the estate is filled with perfectly maintained flowers, lush greenery, and towering trees. It’s the kind of natural beauty that feels almost impossible to replicate anywhere else in the world and truly feels unique to Tuscany.

Despite the scale of the estate, what stood out to me most was the sense of peace and quiet throughout the property. For example, at night, the silence is almost surreal, and with so little around the estate, you can clearly see the stars. At the same time, the communal areas still felt lively and full of energy, creating a really nice balance between atmosphere and calm.

Accommodations

As you would expect from a luxury hotel of this caliber, the accommodations at Castello di Casole are incredibly pampering, with top-of-the-line everything. Oversized king beds are dressed in exceptionally soft linens, the bathrooms feature expansive walk-in showers with dual shower heads, and amenities such as Acqua di Parma toiletries and Dyson hair dryers are found throughout the rooms.

One thing I really loved is that the rooms don’t feel like traditional Tuscan hotel rooms. Many properties in the region lean heavily into rustic décor and darker interiors, but the rooms here feel fresher and more Italian chic. Velvet sofas, colorful furnishings, and contemporary details make the spaces feel bright and current without feeling disconnected from their surroundings.

The rooms are also filled with personal touches that give them real character. Assouline and Taschen books on Italy and Tuscany are placed throughout the accommodations, and espresso is served in beautiful Ginori 1735 porcelain cups — one of Italy’s most historic luxury porcelain houses, founded in Florence. It’s these details that make the rooms feel personal rather than simply luxurious.

And regardless of where you stay, the views are a highlight. At many luxury hotels, only a portion of the rooms enjoy exceptional views. At Castello di Casole, Tuscany is right outside of every window.

Dining

Breakfast is one of my favorite parts of staying at a luxury hotel, and Castello di Casole absolutely delivers.

Served either inside the elegant dining room or outside in the courtyard, breakfast is the kind of experience you’ll want to enjoy slowly. The Italian coffee is excellent, but it was the smaller touches that stood out to me: a fresh juice station where juices are made to order, aged Parmesan on the breakfast spread, and even bottles of Veuve Clicquot Champagne for those wanting to start the day with a glass of bubbly.

For lunch, Emporio del Castello is the place to be. The menu focuses on Italian classics done very well, including wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas, grilled meats, and fresh seasonal dishes, all paired with an excellent selection of Italian wines and Champagnes.

As good as the food is, the real highlight is the setting. The Emporio terrace is one of the most beautiful lunch spots I’ve ever experienced, with sweeping views across the Tuscan countryside. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, it’s worth stopping by for lunch.

A very nice touch is that the hotel has its own vegetable and herb gardens, and many of the herbs used throughout the restaurants are grown on-site.

For aperitivo, Bar Visconti is a must. Many of the cocktails are made with herbs picked from the estate’s gardens. You can enjoy your cocktails either inside the elegant bar or on the outdoor terrace.

Aperitivo here was one of my favorite moments of the stay. Watching the sunset over the landscape was so, so beautiful.

For dinner, guests can choose between Emporio del Castello‘s evening menu or Tosca, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant. Led by Executive Chef Daniele Sera, Tosca showcases refined Tuscan cuisine built around seasonal ingredients and local producers.

Facilities & Experiences

One of the biggest surprises about Castello di Casole is just how much there is to do on the property. While Tuscany is filled with beautiful towns, wineries, and villages worth exploring, the hotel offers enough activities that you could easily spend several days on the estate without ever feeling the need to leave.

The centerpiece of the property is the pool, and it’s one of the most breathtaking hotel pools I’ve ever experienced — you can easily spend the entire day here. Depending on where you’re sitting, you’ll find yourself looking out over vineyards, rolling hills, forests, and even a traditional Tuscan village sitting on a nearby hill. Every angle offers a different view of the surrounding landscape, making it difficult to stop staring out at the scenery.

For those looking to unwind further, the Essere Spa provides a peaceful retreat within the estate. The spa features treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, relaxation areas, and a menu of treatments inspired by Tuscany’s natural ingredients and wellness traditions.

Beyond the facilities, there are countless experiences available to guests. From wine tastings and pizza dough classes to hiking and biking, there is more than enough to fill several days without ever leaving the estate.

One experience that food lovers shouldn’t miss is truffle hunting. Guests can join expert guides and trained dogs to search for truffles in the surrounding countryside, allowing guests to experience one of Tuscany’s most celebrated culinary traditions.

I was traveling with young children, so it wasn’t practical for us this time around, but it’s absolutely something I would have booked otherwise. Best of all, the hotel can arrange everything for you.

Who This Hotel Is Best For

Castello di Casole is ideal for travelers who enjoy destination hotels, places where the hotel itself becomes the trip. Beautiful Tuscan towns and wineries are nearby, but this is one of those rare hotels where you could easily spend several days on the estate without feeling the need to leave.

It’s also an ideal hotel for couples, honeymooners, and anyone celebrating something special. The setting is incredibly romantic, from long breakfasts to aperitivo at sunset and quiet evenings under the stars.

At the same time, it also works very well for families. The estate is enormous, there’s plenty of space for children to move around, and there are enough activities, from the pool and gardens to cooking experiences and outdoor activities throughout the estate, that you don’t feel confined to one place.

Families also feel very welcomed here. When we arrived, the hotel had prepared a brand-new box of baby toiletries in the room, along with stuffed animals and even a little bandana for our baby. I’ve stayed at many high-end hotels with children before, and this was by far the most pampering and the most gifts I’ve ever seen a hotel prepare for a baby. It made the experience feel personal rather than simply family-friendly.

Perched high above the Indian Ocean on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Bvlgari Resort Bali is one of those hotels that feels completely removed from the rest of Bali. The moment you arrive, the atmosphere changes. The roads leading to the resort are chaotic and busy, but once the large carved wooden doors open, everything becomes quiet. You hear the ocean immediately. The air feels heavier from the humidity and sea breeze, and the entire property smells faintly of frangipani and wood smoke.

The resort sits on a dramatic limestone cliff roughly 160 metres above the ocean, and nearly every part of the property faces the water. Unlike many luxury hotels in Bali that lean heavily into tropical softness, Bvlgari Bali feels darker, moodier, and more architectural. Black volcanic stone, teak wood, hand-cut lava rock, and traditional Balinese alang-alang roofs are mixed with sleek Italian furniture and clean contemporary lines. It somehow manages to feel both very Balinese and unmistakably Italian at the same time.

The Service

The service here is extremely polished, but not overly formal.

Each villa comes with butler service, and the staff quickly learn your routine. By the second day, they usually remember your coffee order, preferred breakfast time, and even small details like where you like to sit at the pool.

One thing that stands out is how calm the service feels. Nobody rushes you. Meals move slowly, housekeeping appears almost invisibly, and requests are handled quietly through WhatsApp or directly through the butler team.

There’s also a level of generosity that you don’t always see anymore at luxury hotels. Guests receive complimentary pressing and laundry service, an included minibar, and 24-hour breakfast.

The Villas

The villas are the reason many people book this hotel. Even the entry-level villas feel enormous. The layout is very private, with high stone walls surrounding each space, so once you’re inside, you barely see another guest. Most villas open into an outdoor living room with a plunge pool facing directly toward the ocean. The pools are not oversized, but they’re long enough to properly swim in, and because of the cliffside positioning, the views feel endless.

Inside, the rooms are intentionally dark and cocoon-like. There’s a lot of polished wood, textured stone, bronze details, and heavy linen fabrics. The bathrooms are particularly beautiful, with oversized soaking tubs, outdoor showers, double vanities, and enormous sliding doors that let the sea air move through the space.

One thing the hotel does especially well is lighting. At night, the villas become incredibly atmospheric. Small lanterns are lit throughout the pathways, candles appear during turndown service, and the pools reflect the lights from the cliff edge. It feels cinematic without trying too hard.

The Ocean Cliff Villas are worth the upgrade if privacy and view matter to you. They sit closest to the edge of the cliff and have the most unobstructed ocean views in the resort.

The Food

The food at Bvlgari Bali is surprisingly strong for a luxury resort.

Breakfast at Sangkar is one of the highlights of staying here. The terrace overlooks the ocean, and in the mornings the light across the cliffs is beautiful. The Indonesian breakfast is particularly worth ordering, especially if you’re tired of standard Western hotel breakfasts after a few days in Bali.

The Italian restaurant, Il Ristorante by Luca Fantin, is where the hotel becomes more distinctly Bvlgari. Dinner there feels much more like dining in a luxury European city than in a tropical resort. The tasting menu is refined and very technique-driven, but still light enough for Bali’s climate.

The bar becomes especially lively around sunset. This is probably the most social part of the resort. Guests gather for aperitivo while the sky changes from orange to deep pink over the Indian Ocean. It’s one of those hotels where sunset genuinely becomes part of the daily rhythm.

Facilities

The main infinity pool is one of the most beautiful parts of the resort. It sits directly along the edge of the cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, and because the water almost visually blends into the horizon, the entire area feels suspended above the sea. Unlike many large luxury resorts in Bali, the pool area here remains surprisingly calm and quiet. There’s no loud music or crowded atmosphere. Most guests spend the day either in their villas or move slowly between the pool, spa, and restaurants.

The design around the pool is also very characteristic of Bvlgari Bali. Black volcanic stone, teak wood loungers, oversized umbrellas, and traditional Balinese elements make the space feel dramatic rather than overtly tropical. In the late afternoon especially, the lighting becomes beautiful as the sun starts reflecting against the cliffs and ocean below.

The spa is another highlight of the resort and feels intentionally secluded from the rest of the property. The treatment rooms are oversized and designed almost like private villas, with open-air relaxation spaces, deep soaking tubs, and views overlooking the ocean and tropical greenery. Treatments combine traditional Balinese techniques with more modern wellness rituals, using volcanic stones, oils, herbs, and deep-pressure massage techniques.

One thing the hotel does especially well is creating a sense of calm throughout the spa area. Even when the resort is full, the spa never feels busy or crowded. There are also yoga spaces, relaxation areas, and a small fitness center integrated into the spa complex, all designed with the same dark stone and natural wood aesthetic found throughout the rest of the property.

The Beach

The private beach is one of the most unique parts of the hotel.

You reach it via an inclined elevator carved directly into the cliff, descending through dense greenery toward the ocean below. The ride itself feels dramatic, especially early in the morning or at sunset.

The beach is beautiful, but it’s important to know this is not the calm turquoise-water Bali you see on Instagram. The waves are powerful, and depending on the tide, swimming can be difficult. Most people come down for the atmosphere rather than to spend an entire day in the water.

Still, the setting is extraordinary. The cliffs tower above you, the sand is almost completely secluded, and because access is limited to hotel guests, it never feels crowded.

There’s also a beach club-style restaurant near the shore where you can have lunch without going back up to the main resort.

I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island, and it truly exceeded my expectations. From start to finish, everything about the hotel was spot-on, making for a memorable experience. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Perfect for Every Traveler: This property has something for every type of traveler. Located in Abu Dhabi’s financial district, it manages to offer a peaceful retreat that’s perfect for relaxation, but still close to everything you might want to do in the city. Whether you're looking for a luxurious getaway, a family-friendly destination, or a place to explore the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island ticks all the boxes.

Location: The hotel’s location is top-notch. It's directly connected to The Galleria, a luxury shopping mall, which means you’ve got easy access to high-end shopping and dining. Plus, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is just a 10-minute drive away, and the Grand Mosque is only about 20 minutes away. It’s super easy to get to some of the city’s most iconic sights from the hotel.

Rooms: The rooms live up to the Four Seasons name—luxurious, spacious, and beautifully designed. The calming white and gray tones create a modern, soothing ambiance. Each room has a walk-in shower and a deep soaking bathtub.

But the real standout is the bed. Having stayed in many luxury hotels, I can say that Four Seasons beds are my absolute favorite. They’re incredibly comfortable, with plush mattresses and silky-soft sheets that make it hard to get out of bed in the morning.

Wellness & Spa: Four Seasons Abu Dhabi takes wellness seriously, offering state-of-the-art facilities, including a gym with TechnoGym equipment, saunas, a vitality pool, and a fantastic spa.

The Pearl Spa is a must-visit. I had the 60-minute Holistic Facial, and it was one of the best treatments I’ve experienced in a while. The therapist used over 12 skincare products, leaving my skin glowing and completely refreshed. Between treatments, she also massaged my head, face, and arms—making the entire experience even more relaxing.

The pool is another great highlight—a true oasis of peace with music and panoramic marina views. After exploring Abu Dhabi’s landmarks, I found it perfect to unwind by the pool and enjoy the quiet surroundings.

Dining: A good breakfast is always a highlight for me at any luxury hotel, and this one didn’t disappoint. Guests can enjoy an expansive buffet with just about everything you can imagine, along with a menu of à la carte dishes.

I especially loved the yogurt cart, which comes right to your table and lets you personalize your bowl with seasonal fruit, granola, and nuts — such a thoughtful touch. And the coffee was truly fantastic.

For a light lunch by the pool, there are poke bowls, fresh salads, sushi and fabulous drinks to enjoy while you soak up the sun.

Service: As expected from Four Seasons, the service is exceptional. What stood out to me was how the staff went above and beyond. For example, when I visited the Grand Mosque, women are required to wear a traditional gown and head covering. The concierge provided me with one, so I didn’t have to worry about sourcing it myself. It’s these thoughtful little details that make all the difference.

Perfect for Families: Four Seasons is known for being great for families, and this property is no exception. When I arrived with my toddler, the room was thoughtfully prepared with a baby bathtub, specialty baby soaps, and an adorable mini robe.

At breakfast, they even provided toddler-friendly cutlery, making mealtime so much easier. The kids' club, which is open from 10 AM to 7 PM daily, was filled with toys and activities. My toddler had so much fun, he didn’t want to leave!

I recently stayed at the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens, and it was absolutely incredible. Opened in 2019, this stunning property is the most glamorous destination on the Athens Riviera. Set across 30 hectares of pine forest and perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, it feels like a private oasis.

It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect — while still being just a short drive from Athens’ rich history. Here’s what makes it stand out:

Perfect for Every Type of Traveler: Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, this hotel is perfect for everyone. The resort is incredibly family-friendly, with a fantastic kids' club that keeps little ones entertained with a variety of activities.

It also offers a peaceful, romantic ambiance, so it’s equally great for couples. It’s not often that you find a place that caters so well to both families and couples, but Four Seasons Astir Palace has mastered that balance.

Exceptional Service: With a team of 800 staff members, the service here is truly next-level. Everyone went out of their way to make me feel special, and each member of the team seemed genuinely invested in making sure my stay was perfect. For example, the pool attendants, hostesses, and other staff members greeted me by name every time I saw them, and no request was too big or too small. For instance, one day I was craving guacamole by the pool—even though it wasn’t on the menu, they made it for me without hesitation.

A Haven of Peace and Luxury: From the moment I arrived at the Four Seasons Astir Palace, I felt like I’d entered a true sanctuary. With elegant private beaches, sparkling pools, a world-class spa, and beautifully designed spaces, it was almost impossible to leave—I didn’t step off the property once during my entire stay.

Every detail, from the sea views to the peaceful gardens, encourages you to slow down and fully embrace the simple luxury of time.

The hotel blends coastal chic with nature-inspired design and timeless elegance. Sleek interiors flow seamlessly into the outdoors, creating a setting that’s both serene and refined. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and feel as if you’ve found your own exclusive retreat.

Fabulous Rooms: The room’s standout feature was the balcony. It was the perfect spot to relax, with comfy outdoor furniture and sweeping views of the Aegean. I spent my mornings enjoying a cup of coffee there while watching the sunrise—it was a peaceful way to start the day.

The Four Seasons beds are also worth mentioning. With luxurious linens and plush pillows, I had some of the best sleep I’ve had in a long time. The Diptyque toiletries were a nice pampering touch, too.

If you’re planning a stay, make sure to book a room in the Nafsika building. This newer section of the hotel offers modern accommodations with stunning views of the Aegean Sea.

Incredible Facilities: The resort is a wellness sanctuary. It has an outdoor infinity pool, an indoor pool with sea views at the spa, and a well-equipped gym with TechnoGym machines. I especially loved the hydrotherapy zone, with its aroma steam grotto, chill showers, sauna, and hammam. I spent a lot of time alternating between the indoor and outdoor pools, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Spa: Be sure to indulge in the spa’s signature treatments, like the 50-minute Armonia Massage and the 30-minute Oxygono Face & Eyes Facial. The products used during my treatments were from a Cretan brand called Bioaroma, and they were amazing—beautiful, local products that left my face and body feeling plumped and deeply rehydrated, results that actually lasted (which isn’t always the case). Afterward, I relaxed in the spa’s quiet room, sipping lavender green tea—such a perfect way to unwind.

Dining: Dining at the Four Seasons Astir Palace is a true highlight. As you'd expect, breakfast is a beautiful, expansive buffet with à la carte options available as well. I highly recommend sitting outside — the view of the water in the morning is stunning.

With eight restaurants on the property, there’s no shortage of variety, but Taverna 37 was the standout for me. It’s easily one of the best tavernas in Athens, serving authentic Greek dishes like smoked eggplant cream and zucchini patties — both of which were among the best things I ate on the entire trip. Go early for dinner if you can; watching the sunset from your table is a beautiful experience.

Another favorite was the tuna poke bowl from the Nafsika poolside menu. It was so good, I ended up ordering it every day of my stay.

Super Family-Friendly: The kids' club is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM and is packed with activities to keep little ones busy. From pottery classes to water sports and tennis, there’s always something happening.

I noticed that the staff treats the kids with the same care and attention to detail as they do the adults, which was really nice to see. I came here with my husband, but I’m already planning to come back with my kids.

Here’s what makes it special:

Style: Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, the resort is known for its contemporary Alpine architecture paired with sleek, Asian-influenced interiors. Instead of gingham and stuffy décor, you’ll find black stone, dark wood, soft lighting, and orchids—a fresh, modern take on Alpine hotel design.

The Location: Andermatt is a tiny Alpine town in central Switzerland with fewer than 1,000 residents — quiet, picturesque, and postcard-perfect.

Getting there is easy: the hotel can arrange a private transfer from Zurich (about 90 minutes by car), or you can take a direct train from Zurich (1.5 hours), Milan (2 hours), or Munich (4 hours). I took the 1.5 hour train ride from Zurich, and it was a stunning train ride through the Alps. I highly recommend it.

The Rooms: Each room feels like a private chalet with extra polish. They’re gorgeously designed, spacious and cozy at the same time, with king-size feather beds, warm oak floors, and plush furnishings in neutral tones. Bathrooms are oversized and indulgent, with a freestanding tub at the center, a rainfall shower, and full-size Acqua di Parma products.

Facilities & Activities: The Chedi Andermatt is a kind of place you check into — and will never want to leave! The spa is the heart of the hotel — and one of the best I’ve ever experienced. There’s a 35-meter indoor pool with mountain views, plus a heated outdoor pool if you want fresh air. The gym is stocked with Technogym equipment and feels more like a boutique fitness studio than a hotel gym. Facilities include steam rooms, infrared saunas, plunge pools, and hydrotherapy circuits.

If you book one thing, make it the Chedi Alpine Massage. You’ll start in the wet and dry saunas, then move into a deeply relaxing treatment that blends Asian techniques with Alpine aromatics. It’s the perfect way to end the day — especially after a long hike or ski day.

In summer, guests hike, bike, and climb. In winter, the Chedi offers ski-in/ski-out access, snowshoeing, and guided mountain adventures. Private yoga, Pilates, and personal training are available year-round.

Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at The Restaurant, which offers both European and Asian dishes — think buttery rösti with eggs in the morning, truffle pasta or spicy Thai curry at night.

One of the first things you’ll notice is the glass-walled Cheese Cellar near the entrance, stocked daily with a rotating selection of Swiss cheeses. I found it especially memorable—I've never stayed at a hotel with a dedicated cheese cellar before.

The real standout, though, is The Japanese by The Chedi Andermatt — Switzerland’s highest Japanese restaurant, perched at nearly 2,300 meters above sea level. There’s also a Michelin-starred version of The Japanese located on the hotel grounds, offering a multi-course omakase-style experience. If you love sushi, sashimi, or anything tempura, you won’t want to skip it.

Bottom Line: The Chedi Andermatt is one of those rare hotels that’s just as magical in winter as it is in summer — and equally suited for families, romantic getaways, or solo travelers looking to unplug and breathe in the mountain air. It’s not just one of the best resorts in Switzerland; it might be the best reason to visit Switzerland in the first place.

.

Location: This hotel is the ideal option for both leisure and business. While it’s located in the business capital of South Africa—Johannesburg— it truly is an “urban oasis”. Being originally from Johannesburg, I can say the stunning, panoramic views from atop the hillside make it feel as though you’ve escaped the city and entered serene nature.

The gardens on the property are exquisite, with every type of flower—from brightly colored bougainvillea to elegant roses and expertly clipped topiary. A visit to the rose garden, filled with hundreds of roses—the chef of Flames restaurant’s personal favorite spot—overlooking a beautiful canopy of urban trees, is perfect for moments of calm. I highly recommend an afternoon stroll there during the summer months when the roses are in full bloom.

Luxurious Rooms: The 80 (soon to be 117) guest rooms and suites are spread across nine hillside villas. They carry the charm of the property’s origins as private residences, with a spacious, homelike feel and balconies—both private and shared—that open onto panoramic 240-degree views of Johannesburg’s high-rise skyline.

I always love a good pair of hotel slippers, and these were honestly the best I’ve ever worn. The bathroom in my suite was luxurious, with two basins, a deep soaking bath, a spacious shower, and plenty of hanging space.

The mattresses are custom-made for The Four Seasons, and after sleeping on one, I could tell—I haven’t slept that well in a long time. A lovely touch is that each suite also has embroidered pillows, handcrafted by local artisans.

Wellness & Spa: As expected, The Four Seasons Hotel The Wescliff offers state-of-the-art wellness facilities, including a gym with TechnoGym equipment that stays open 24/7, a sauna and steam room, a temperature-regulated lap pool, and a fantastic spa. Above the spa is the city’s only outdoor spa lounge, Après-Spa, overlooking the pool—the perfect spot to relax and order something light to eat between treatments.

I especially enjoyed alternating between the sauna and steam room, cooling off at the specially designed ice station in between sessions.

A thoughtful touch in the gym was the refreshment station, complete with cool scented towels, bottled still and sparkling water, fresh fruit, and even homemade protein bars. Small details like these made the experience feel personal and indulgent.

Dining: One of the most magical parts of The Four Seasons Johannesburg reveals itself before you even sit down to eat. As you ride the glass lift up to Flames, the hotel’s signature restaurant, you’re treated to sweeping views of the gardens below and Johannesburg’s glittering city center — a breathtaking prelude to what’s to come.

At the helm of Flames is Chef Rudi Liebenberg, whose world-renowned, fire-driven style defines the restaurant’s menu. He recommends starting with the crayfish Caesar salad — baby cos lettuce grilled over the flame and topped with bacon bits — followed by the smoky ribeye, served in a simple, perfectly balanced sauce. For dessert, his favorite: a hazelnut chocolate bar filled with cream and nuts. To complete the meal, he suggests a Bordeaux-style wine from the Western Cape.

Flames itself is an experience. About half of the diners aren’t hotel guests but locals who come specifically for the culinary destination it’s become. During my stay, small fires flickered around the terrace, adding warmth and atmosphere on a chilly evening. When I arrived, a blanket was already waiting on my chair — a small but thoughtful touch that captures what makes this hotel so special.

Breakfast at Flames is just as memorable. Open from 6:30 am to 11 am, it caters equally to early risers, business travelers, and those lingering over a slow morning. The buffet is beautifully arranged, with every fruit, cheese, and pastry imaginable, along with a menu of hot dishes made to order. With a barista waiting for your coffee request, a waiter offering a breakfast mimosa, and a view of the lush gardens stretching out below, it’s impossible not to start the day feeling completely spoiled.

Exceptional Service: The service at The Four Seasons is nothing short of spectacular. From the option to check in online before arrival and valet parking, to the complimentary chocolate mousse and coconut treat, as well as a fruit basket and bottles of both still and sparkling water waiting in the room upon arrival—every detail is designed to make guests feel cared for. The 24-hour room service adds an extra layer of comfort.

The staff go to extraordinary lengths to ensure every stay is seamless. During my visit, it was raining as I left the spa, and a staff member immediately offered me a golf cart ride back to my room. When I mentioned that I had planned to walk the grounds, he left and returned almost instantly with a massive umbrella.

Another detail that sets this hotel apart is the flowers. Every single day, all arrangements—at the breakfast buffet, next to the elevators, by the bar—are replaced with fresh ones, a task handled by a staff member hired specifically for it. Their commitment to quality is truly next level.

As I mentioned earlier, the weather was unseasonably miserable during my stay, but I cannot wait to go back on a sunny day and finally experience the pool that teased me from my balcony.