I have to say, I was most excited about The Lodge in Verbier more than anything else in my entire Swiss Voyage. After ten days of traveling non-stop around the country, it was finally time to visit Richard Branson’s baby.

Two bus rides, three trains, one gondola ride and a mile walk after, I was there, in front of what is considered to be the most expensive and high-end ski lodge in the world (Of course there are faster ways to get to The Lodge, however I was on the company’s budget).

As I looked up admiring the divine Swiss chalet, my heels slipped and I fell on my face, scraping both of my knees and hands. To my dismay, the super-friendly staff was waiting at the entrance to greet me and witnessed the whole thing! They didn’t even bat an eyelash and pretended the whole thing never happened, very gracious of them. Note to self: Hiking or snow boots are a must in this town, even on the warmer days.

Although I visited the property one day before the Summer opening, Ashley Crook, the Deputy Manager, welcomed me with a big Swiss smile and pretended she didn’t have three-thousand things to do before the opening.

The architecture is as typical as it gets; Wooden chalet, wooden shutters, flowers in every balcony and a Greater Swiss Mountain Dog guarding the entrance. However, once you step in, the large fire place, gigantic sofas, fur throws and candles adorn the lodge in a casual yet chic way. The colors are light, with a few pops of color here and there.

Contrary to what I thought, The Lodge is ideal for a group of friends or family. The cozy lodge has a communal environment, or should I say a VERY high-end communal environment. Everyone shares a large table for meals, a family room and even an awesome playroom. If you do not feel like mingling, dinner in your private terrace or in the hotel’s terrace can be arranged.

The lodge has 8 rooms and one amazing bunk room for the kiddos. They also have 14 staff members and 3 in-house Chefs. Upon booking, you can either let them surprise you with the menu (it is a set menu), or you can choose the menu before you get there. Either way, whatever you choose, please be sure to strap yourself in because you are going to be blown away.

All in all, Richard Branson made the right choice with this 7-year-old lodge. The location is secluded, unassuming, has spectacular views and it is located in one of the best mountains in the world. Bravo! Bravo!

Photographs courtesy of the property.