Switzerland, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is home to some of the most unique and unusual places to stay. Whether you’re looking to sleep in a historic castle, overnight in an ice hotel, or retreat to a remote mountain hut, Switzerland offers accommodations that are as memorable as the country itself. For travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience, here are some of the most unusual places to stay in Switzerland.

1. The Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise – A Snow Hotel

Location: Zermatt, Valais
Best For: Adventurers, winter sports enthusiasts

If you’ve ever dreamt of staying in an ice hotel, Switzerland’s Zermatt Matterhorn Glacier Paradise offers a unique opportunity to do so. Located at 3,883 meters above sea level, it is the highest hotel in Europe. The entire structure is built from snow and ice, creating a magical atmosphere. Guests sleep in intricately carved ice rooms and enjoy stunning views of the Matterhorn.

Why Stay Here:

• The hotel is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, giving you the experience of staying in a frozen wonderland.
• It’s an ideal base for skiing and mountaineering, as it’s directly connected to Zermatt’s ski slopes.
• After a day on the slopes, guests can relax in the ice bar or take part in unique activities like glacier hiking.

Tip: Temperatures in the ice hotel can be very low, so be prepared with warm clothing, even in the rooms.

2. The Ursulines Monastery Hotel

Location: Grimentz, Valais
Best For: History lovers, solitude seekers

The Ursulines Monastery is located in the picturesque mountain village of Grimentz in the Valais region. Originally a monastery dating back to the 17th century, this place has been transformed into a tranquil hotel. The building maintains its historic charm, with the walls and structure still reminiscent of its religious roots.

Why Stay Here:

• Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by alpine forests and mountains.
• The monastery is close to the Val d’Anniviers, providing access to beautiful hiking and skiing.
• Guests can enjoy a unique blend of spirituality and modern hospitality in a historical setting.

Tip: Stay in the former monk’s cells, which have been transformed into simple yet comfortable rooms, and experience the solitude once enjoyed by the monks.

3. The Sleeping in a Cable Car Experience

Location: Various locations in the Swiss Alps
Best For: Mountain lovers, thrill-seekers

For those looking for a truly unusual way to spend the night, Switzerland offers the experience of staying in a cable car turned into a mountain lodge. These converted cabins are perched on mountaintops, allowing you to sleep high above the Swiss Alps, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Why Stay Here:

• Sleep at high altitudes, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
• Many cable cars are located in areas that are difficult to reach, adding an extra level of adventure.
• It’s an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of staying in a moving cabin with the beauty of the Alps.

Tip: These experiences are often offered during the summer months when hiking and mountaineering are at their peak, so plan accordingly.

4. The Kameha Suite at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel

Location: St. Moritz, Graubünden
Best For: Luxury seekers, movie fans

The Kameha Suite at the luxurious Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz is one of the most over-the-top, unusual accommodations in Switzerland. Designed by artist Carlo Rampazzi, the suite features a wild blend of modern luxury and avant-garde style, with extravagant decor that includes bold colors, unusual furniture, and striking artwork.

Why Stay Here:

• The suite’s decor is a true work of art and unlike anything you’ll find in traditional hotel rooms.
• Badrutt’s Palace is one of Switzerland’s most iconic luxury hotels, offering top-tier amenities such as fine dining, a world-class spa, and private ski slopes.
• Stay in the same place where royalty, celebrities, and the rich and famous have stayed.

Tip: While the suite is extravagant, you can also enjoy the hotel’s extensive collection of unique, themed rooms for a less opulent but equally memorable stay.

5. The Glamping in the Swiss Alps Experience

Location: Various mountain locations in Switzerland
Best For: Nature lovers, campers looking for luxury

If you love the idea of camping but prefer luxury and comfort, glamping (glamorous camping) in the Swiss Alps is the perfect choice. There are several sites in Switzerland that offer stylish, fully equipped tents or yurts nestled in breathtaking mountain landscapes. These accommodations come with comfortable beds, gourmet dining, and stunning views, making them a perfect blend of nature and comfort.

Why Stay Here:

• Experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Swiss Alps, often with easy access to hiking trails, lakes, and wildlife.
• These glamping sites often offer activities like yoga, stargazing, or gourmet meals prepared by private chefs.

Tip: Glamping is particularly popular in the Engadine and Jura regions, where you can find remote spots offering a sense of tranquility far from city life.

6. The Firefly Lodge – A Floating Cabin

Location: Lake Zurich, Zurich
Best For: Water lovers, romantic getaways

For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, the Firefly Lodge offers an unusual opportunity to stay in a floating cabin on Lake Zurich. This small, eco-friendly lodge sits on the water, offering a peaceful retreat where you can wake up to the serene lake view and enjoy stunning sunsets from the comfort of your bed.

Why Stay Here:

• Experience life on the water in a stylish, eco-friendly cabin.
• The lodge offers complete privacy, perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.
• Wake up to views of Lake Zurich and the Swiss Alps.

Tip: Because the lodge is small, it’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a secluded and intimate experience.

7. The Hotel Ändereck – A Former Jail

Location: Appenzell, Appenzell Innerrhoden
Best For: History enthusiasts, thrill-seekers

For an accommodation experience with a twist, the Hotel Ändereck in Appenzell offers the chance to stay in a former prison. Originally built as a jail, the building has been transformed into a quirky hotel, offering rooms with high ceilings, old stone walls, and an eerie charm.

Why Stay Here:

• Step back in time and experience life in a historic building that was once a prison.
• The hotel retains many original features, providing a unique atmosphere.
• It’s located in the charming town of Appenzell, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.

Tip: Don’t miss out on the hotel’s small but fascinating museum, which displays artifacts and history from its prison days.

8. The Hut on the Top of Mount Rigi

Location: Mount Rigi, Lucerne
Best For: Adventure seekers, hikers, sunrise lovers

The Rigi Hut is located at the summit of Mount Rigi, known as the “Queen of the Mountains.” It is a small, rustic hut where hikers can spend the night after a day of exploring the surrounding trails. What makes this stay truly special is the breathtaking view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Lucerne.

Why Stay Here:

• Watch a stunning sunrise over the Swiss Alps from the comfort of your hut.
• The hut is accessible only via hiking trails, making it an exclusive and adventurous stay.
• It’s a perfect location for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Tip: Because this hut is high up and only accessible by foot, be sure to bring proper hiking gear and prepare for the physical challenge.

Conclusion

Switzerland offers some of the most unusual places to stay, where adventure, history, and luxury collide in unexpected ways. From sleeping in ice hotels and floating cabins to staying in former prisons or high-altitude huts, these accommodations offer unforgettable experiences that will make your time in Switzerland even more special. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventure in the mountains, or a cultural immersion, these unique stays provide a new way to experience the beauty and charm of Switzerland.