Switzerland is to the hotel industry what France is to restaurants, so it’s not surprising that some of my favourite hotels are in Switzerland.
Rustic or palatial, beds are comfortable, service polished and breakfasts hearty. Usually a generous buffet of cold cuts, such as excellent raw ham (Rohschinken) and air-dried beef (Bündnerfleisch), a selection of Switzerland’s famous cheeses, loaves of freshly baked bread (including the brioche-like, plaited Züpfe), and yoghurt from the local dairy. Switzerland has some of the most delicious food and wine – and most spectacular scenery – I’ve seen anywhere. A stay at any of these hotels is a great way to explore it.
Hotel des Trois Couronnes Vevey
I always feel drawn back to Lake Geneva, especially the flower-lined promenade of Vevey and the steeply-terraced vineyards above it. There’s no better place to enjoy the dramatic view of the Savoy Alps across the mirror-calm lake than from this majestic hotel. It also offers Switzerland’s best breakfast buffet.
Maison Junod Romainmôtier
A room in this simple chambre d’hôte (French B&B) includes a continental breakfast in the charming tea room of the neighbouring priory, in the grounds of the 5th century monastery around which this ancient town was built. A great local bakery, and excellent fondue in the surrounding Jura mountains, complete the picture.
Hotel Palazzo Salis Soglio
This quaint 17th century hotel, in a remote village high in the Swiss Alps, is both comfortable and rustic, plus full of history. Whether viewed from a deck-chair in the hotel’s flower-filled private garden or strolling the narrow, cobbled streets, views of the soaring snow-covered peaks are truly breathtaking. Eat at nearby Stüa Granda.
Hotel Stern Chur
Built in 1677 and extensively renovated with all mod comforts. An echo of this building’s history is still evident in the top floor attic rooms with wonderful exposed original beams, offering the best of both worlds. Located in the centre of the old town which has wonderful cobbled streets full of interesting architecture and food shops.
Stadthaus Burgdorf
Once the town hall, this small refined hotel on a corner of the cobbled old town of Burgdorf has views back over the countryside and up to the impressive medieval castle. It’s a great base for exploring the Emmental and only a 20 minute train ride into the centre of Bern. Chef Christian Bolliger produces delicious traditional and innovative fare. Good breakfast buffet too!
