Switzerland has long been synonymous with luxury hospitality, and its grand hotels stand as testaments to timeless elegance and world-class service. Nestled in breathtaking alpine landscapes, these historic hotels have hosted royalty, celebrities, and discerning travelers for over a century. Their opulent architecture, rich history, and unparalleled views make them more than just places to stay—they are experiences in themselves.
From lakeside retreats to majestic mountain lodges, here are some of Switzerland’s most iconic grand hotels that continue to define sophistication and charm.
1. Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – The Jewel of St. Moritz
Location: St. Moritz
Established: 1896
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel is one of Switzerland’s most legendary luxury hotels. Overlooking Lake St. Moritz and framed by the Engadin Alps, it exudes old-world glamour. Founded by Johannes Badrutt, the hotel helped establish St. Moritz as a premier winter resort for aristocrats and celebrities.
Notable Features:
- Lavish Belle Époque architecture with turrets and grand facades
- World-class spa and indoor infinity pool with panoramic mountain views
- A rich history of hosting royalty, film stars, and business magnates
Badrutt’s Palace remains an icon of Swiss hospitality, blending tradition with modern luxury.
2. Gstaad Palace – A Fairytale Retreat
Location: Gstaad
Established: 1913
Perched on a hill overlooking the charming village of Gstaad, this castle-like hotel has been a favorite of Hollywood stars and European nobility for decades. The Gstaad Palace is known for its impeccable service, exclusive atmosphere, and breathtaking views of the Bernese Alps.
Notable Features:
- A luxurious spa with a grotto and hammam
- A Michelin-starred restaurant offering Alpine gourmet cuisine
- An underground nightclub, GreenGo, once frequented by international celebrities
Gstaad Palace perfectly combines tradition and modern luxury, making it a top destination for those seeking privacy and sophistication.
3. Kulm Hotel – The Birthplace of Winter Tourism
Location: St. Moritz
Established: 1856
The Kulm Hotel holds a special place in Swiss history as the birthplace of winter tourism. In 1864, hotelier Johannes Badrutt invited British guests to experience St. Moritz in winter, promising sunny, snow-covered landscapes. This gamble paid off, leading to the creation of the world’s first winter resort.
Notable Features:
- A grand historic building with sweeping views of Lake St. Moritz
- A state-of-the-art spa blending Alpine tradition with modern wellness
- Its role in pioneering the St. Moritz bobsleigh and skiing culture
The Kulm Hotel is a living piece of Swiss history, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary luxury.
4. Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa – A Belle Époque Masterpiece
Location: Interlaken
Established: 1865
Set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with a backdrop of the Jungfrau Massif, the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel is an architectural gem. Its grand halls, elegant ballrooms, and stunning mountain views have made it a favorite among European aristocracy and high society.
Notable Features:
- A luxurious 5,500-square-meter spa with an indoor pool and saunas
- A grand dining experience at La Terrasse Brasserie
- Proximity to the Jungfraujoch railway, leading to the “Top of Europe”
This hotel remains a beacon of Swiss hospitality, offering guests a chance to step back into the golden age of travel.
5. Beau-Rivage Palace – Lakeside Luxury in Lausanne
Location: Lausanne
Established: 1861
Overlooking Lake Geneva, the Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne is one of Europe’s most prestigious hotels. Its stunning neoclassical architecture and opulent interiors have made it a preferred destination for world leaders and dignitaries.
Notable Features:
- Lavish rooms and suites with lake and mountain views
- A two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Anne-Sophie Pic
- A history of hosting diplomatic summits, including peace treaties
With its blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, the Beau-Rivage Palace remains a landmark of luxury on the Swiss Riviera.
6. The Dolder Grand – A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Location: Zürich
Established: 1899
Situated on a hill above Zürich, The Dolder Grand is a perfect mix of old-world charm and contemporary elegance. Following an extensive renovation in 2008 by architect Sir Norman Foster, the hotel now combines its historic grandeur with sleek modern design.
Notable Features:
- A 4,000-square-meter spa offering cutting-edge wellness treatments
- An impressive art collection featuring works by Salvador Dalí and Takashi Murakami
- Panoramic views of Zürich, Lake Zürich, and the Alps
The Dolder Grand is a sanctuary of luxury, attracting business travelers and celebrities alike.
7. Grand Hotel Kronenhof – A Step Back in Time
Location: Pontresina
Established: 1848
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof, located in the Engadin Valley, is a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture. Its majestic façade, lavish interiors, and serene alpine surroundings make it a favorite for those seeking relaxation and elegance.
Notable Features:
- One of the best-preserved neo-Baroque hotel buildings in Switzerland
- A luxurious spa with stunning mountain views
- Proximity to St. Moritz while offering a more tranquil setting
The Kronenhof is ideal for travelers who appreciate history, nature, and refined hospitality.
8. Baur au Lac – Zürich’s Prestigious Urban Oasis
Location: Zürich
Established: 1844
Overlooking Lake Zürich, Baur au Lac has long been one of Switzerland’s most distinguished hotels. Its combination of urban sophistication and lakeside tranquility has made it a top choice for world leaders, artists, and business moguls.
Notable Features:
- A Michelin-starred restaurant, Pavillon
- A private lakeside park offering a serene escape in the heart of Zürich
- A legacy of hosting Nobel Prize winners, including Albert Einstein
Baur au Lac is a symbol of Zürich’s refined elegance, providing world-class service in an exclusive setting.
Conclusion
Switzerland’s grand hotels are more than luxurious accommodations—they are icons of history, elegance, and tradition. From the snow-covered peaks of St. Moritz to the serene shores of Lake Geneva, each of these hotels offers a unique experience rooted in Swiss hospitality.
Whether you seek a glamorous retreat in the Alps, a lakeside escape, or a refined urban sanctuary, these grand hotels provide timeless luxury in the heart of Switzerland.
