
Best Adventure Hotels in Switzerland
As a long-established luxury travel publication, The Luxury Editor is known for showcasing hotels that go beyond star ratings alone and focus on what really matters to discerning travellers seeking a memorable stay in a adventure hotel in Switzerland. Service, design, atmosphere, sense of place and the overall quality of the guest experience all play a part in whether a property earns its place in our curated list.
Whether you are at the early stages of planning or already comparing a shortlist, our choice of adventure hotels in Switzerland is a credible and useful guide, with easy booking options too.
Let us help you make searching for the perfect place to stay more inspiring, more informed and more enjoyable.
Canton of Valais, Zermatt
Riffelalp Resort 2222m
(5 stars)The name provides a fairly clear clue, but this is in fact the highest luxury hotel in the whole of Europe. So much so, the resort can’t actually be accessed by car. Instead, guests take the train to the property, passing breathtaking views en route. Once installed, visitors can enjoy direct ski in-ski out access to the slopes. Ski rental is available at the property, plus there are swimming pools, a tennis court, billiards, bowling and activities for kids. The decor is very much a modern take on chalet living, although the building dates as far back as the 19th-century.
Sierre, Crans-Montana
LeCrans Hôtel & Spa
(5 stars)If you’re jetting off for an exclusive winter sports break, consider LeCrans Hôtel & Spa. Guests can ski in and ski directly out of the chalet, which is located in the Valais region. LeSpa Cinq Mondes affords incredible views, not least from the heated outdoor pool. At mealtimes, there’s Michelin-starred cuisine served in the Le Mont Blanc restaurant, created by Executive Chef Pierre Crepaud, and a Cigar Lounge for after-dinner drinks. Eight suites and seven rooms – each themed around mountains of the world – make it ideal for large groups travelling together and seeking privacy.
Grisons, Laax
rocksresort
(4 stars)Sporting a striking cubist exterior, Rocksresort really owns its footprint, conveniently close to the Laax ski lift. 500 tons of 40-million-year-old quartzite stone went into the build of this 122-bedroom property, which is one of the most sustainable around – it was named the Best New Ski Resort by Wallpaper Magazine after opening. Interiors are minimal, in earthy tones with hints of retro shaping. Guests can stay in suites or multiple bedroom apartments catering for large groups and on-trend bathrooms are equipped with mini spas. Pan-Asian, Swiss and Mediterranean food can be enjoyed in the restaurant by chef Sacha Meyer and there’s a spa.
Canton of Bern, Gstaad
Le Grand Bellevue
(5 stars)A pale gold exterior, art deco signage and a lavish entrance ensure guests receive an impressive welcome here. It’s another small hotel in terms of bedrooms – 57 to be exact. But, like The Alpina, it has much to offer in the way of amenities; a huge subterranean spa with a 17 zone thermal suite, a salt grotto and an indoor hydrotherapy pool, an outdoor spa pool, fitness classes, tennis courts, a kids’ club, a playroom and a cinema. The main restaurant, Leonard’s, has a Michelin star, while Le Petit Chalet serves traditional Swiss comfort foods and there’s the Sushi Bar for lighter, more casual meals.
Canton of Valais, Verbier
Chalet d’Adrien
(5 stars)Opposite the Savoleyres Ski Lift, you’ll discover a luxury hotel that still retains the charm and features of an authentic chalet. Each room has a unique decor, incorporating wood fires, panelling, period furnishings and unobstructed vistas. Chalet d’Adrien excels in alfresco opportunities. One of the magical experiences to be enjoyed in the Alps is an outdoor swim with a view, and you won’t find a more majestic mountainous pool setting than this. Nuxe treatments are offered in the adjoining spa, and you can book an invigorating open-air massage (providing the weather conditions are suitable). Dine on the open terrace by day, or in one of two gourmet eateries by night. This is less of a party hotel, ideal for couples relishing cosy evenings sipping cocktails in the bar’s comfy armchairs, and families seeking plenty of children’s activity options
Engadine Valley, St. Moritz
GRACE LA MARGNA ST MORITZ, an SLH Hotel
(5 stars)Hotel Grace La Margna, an exquisite luxury ski hotel located in the prestigious resort town of St. Moritz, offers an exceptional alpine experience that combines elegance with comfort. This beautifully restored property has convenient ski-in/ski-out facilities and features 77 stylishly appointed rooms and suites, each designed to provide a serene retreat with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling lake. Both local and international cuisine can be sampled at the gourmet restaurant and the many bars serve up a refreshment fitting for any occasion. A state-of-the-art spa and wellness area, featuring a sauna, steam room, heated indoor swimming pool and whirl pool is the ideal spot to unwind. Guests can also use the gym and book personal training sessions. With families in mind there is also a dedicated kids club for younger guests.
Canton of Valais, Zermatt
Grand Hotel Zermatterhof
(5 stars)Arrive at this hotel in your choice of a horse-drawn carriage or electric bus. The multi-award-winning Grand Hotel Zermatterhof first opened its doors in 1879. Much of its original charm can still be enjoyed today, alongside the contemporary touches. The Alpine Wellness Spa incorporates an indoor pool with a waterfall. Dine on French-Italian cuisine at its Prato Borni restaurant, Mediterranean food at the Brasserie Lusi and a decadent fondue at Saycheese! Drinks can be taken by the fireside at the Ruden Bar, or to piano accompaniment at Stars. Many of the 78 rooms have their own balconies, while the fancier suites have fireplaces and jacuzzis.
Grisons, Laax
Peaks Place Laax
(4 stars)Ideal for those serious about their skiing and sport, this apartment hotel is located in the heart of Laax, offering a bike garage, a washing area and toolbox for bikers; lockers, a drying room and a mountain shuttle bus for skiers. The 850 sqm spa and wellness retreat, La Senda, is perfect for easing tired muscles after a day of activity. Then relax over a healthy, hearty meal made following grandmothers’ recipes at restaurant s’nani, followed by a nightcap in front of the fire. Apartments sleep between three and eight guests, with minimal design and self-catering facilities.
Sierre, Crans-Montana
Guarda Golf Hôtel & Résidences
(5 stars)Guarda Golf Hôtel & Résidences, located in the heart of Crans-Montana, offers a ski in/out experience and is a luxurious retreat that blends alpine charm with contemporary elegance. Comprising 46 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each boasting stunning mountain views and high-end furnishings. Guests can enjoy an exceptional gourmet dining experience at the on-site restaurant complemented by an extensive wine selection. In addition to an excellent spa and wellness centre and heated outdoor swimming pool, guests can also make use of the exclusive 9-hole golf course in a serene setting. Well-suited to a family holiday, the hotel has a children’s play area and child-friendly activities.
At the Guarda Golf Hôtel & Résidences guests are invited to embrace a truly luxurious ski holiday in the the stunning alpine landscape of Crans-Montana.
Engadine Valley, St. Moritz
Grand Hotel Des Bains Kempinski St. Moritz
(5 stars)The Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski is an iconic ski in/ski out hotel located in the heart of St. Moritz. Comprising 184 elegantly designed rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the picturesque lake. The hotel offers a selection of fine dining restaurants, (including Michel-starred) serving gourmet Swiss cuisine international delicacies, there’s also a stylish bar for après-ski enjoyment. Its world-class wellness centre covers 2,800 sqm and includes four different saunas, an indoor and outdoor heated pool, Kneipp Garden, a state of the art Gym and personal training services. Younger guests are well catered for with activities, experiences and great snack, at the dedicated Kids’ Club
Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski is a quintessential destination for luxury ski enthusiasts, blending exquisite accommodations, unparalleled service, and with direct access to one of the world’s premier skiing locations and first-class facilities, Grand Hotel des Bains Kempinski, promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of St. Moritz.
Canton of Valais, Zermatt
Hotel Monte Rosa
(4 stars)This is the town’s oldest hotel, a cosy Victorian building, once a family home, with a long history. And this past has had an impact on the ambience; it does indeed feel homely, in a very upmarket way. The boutique property has 41 bedrooms and while there’s no spa onsite (its lack pleasantly contributes to the country house feel), guests can use the facilities at the nearby Mont Cervin Palace. Yet the hotel’s Brasserie Belle-Époque, with its stuccoed ceilings and chandeliers, creates a contrasting sense of vintage grandeur, The leafy gardens and pretty window boxes make the exterior especially picturesque and equally suited to summer visits as the peak winter season.
Canton of Valais, Verbier
Experimental Chalet
(4 stars)The Experimental group’s newest property renovation has caused a stir. If you love to be among the first to try the latest and hottest hotels, book a stay here. Its 39 rooms and suites by Paris-based, Milanese interior designer Fabrizio Casiraghian, give it a boutique feel. Evocative of 1970s glamour, it’s all deeply chic and sleek. Chef Gregory Marchand is at the gastronomic helm, serving contemporary takes on alpine classics and in summer, small plates with tapas. The hotel has chosen to partner with French, tailor-made skin treatment brand Biologique Recherche and after dark, the Farm Club is the place to be and be seen, in Verbier.
