Due to my hectic travel schedule, I could only visit Switzerland in June and as many of you know it is low season, which meant I got a behind the scenes tour of one of my favorite Swiss Chalets: The Alpina.
The Alpina Gstaad brings whole new meaning to the concept of “Swiss Chalets”. Integrating Swiss elegance with Alpine chic, this hotel has been winning awards since it opened in 2012. Named Gault&Millau’s “Hotel of the Year” in 2013 and 2014, this hotel exemplifies sophistication and authenticity. Located in the German-speaking canton of Bern, this is the perfect location for a winter getaway, with some of the best apres-skiing in the whole world. This chalet might become so homey, you’ll never want to leave!
All 56 rooms in the hotel are designed uniquely, with hand-made original and contemporary woodwork from local artisans. While each room comes with modern amenities, traditional ski chalet designs are apparent throughout each room with sloping wooden ceilings, thick wool blankets, and a burning fireplace. Each room also comes with their own private terrace, the Deluxe Rooms Schönried look out onto the picturesque foothills of the Bernese Alps, while the Deluxe Rooms Gstaad offer an awe-inspiring view of the majestic Diablerets mountains and the village down below.
One of the best aspects of the hotel is their Six Senses Spa, the super indulgent treatments are perfect to soothe those achy joints from a long ski day. From spa treatments to group exercises wellness classes, Six Senses Spa is world-renowned for it’s class and indulgence. The Six Senses Spa is inspired by Asian traditions and draws its energy from the Alpine heart of the surrounding mountain peaks. The spa even offers an Alpine Retreat package in which they offer body transformation, spiritual awareness, and body healing through ancient practices.
The hotel offers 6 dining options, each of which are unique and oh-so-delicious. The Sommet Restaurant has earned itself one Michelin star with it’s exquisite Swiss/French food. Megu is their chic Sushi restaurant, with two head chefs that are expertly trained. They also offer some of the world’s most rare and extensive selection of sakes. My favorite place to eat is their Alpina Lounge & Bar because of their wall-to-ceiling windows, you feel as if you’re enjoying a cocktail right on the mountain slope, without the freezing cold aspect.
This might be the ideal place to stay if you are looking for a traditional Swiss retreat with a twist of contemporary design. If you want the traditional elegance of Gstaad, then the gorgeous Gstaad Palace is your stop.
Photographs courtesy of the property.
