The Most Epic Hotels to Book in Switzerland You Have to See to Believe

This five-star retreat has snow shovels of wow-factor, from its cathedral-like proportions to its spectacular mountain setting. At 1.5km (0.9mi) above sea level in the heart of the Swiss Alps, it’s surrounded by dramatic peaks that echo the majestic architecture of the hotel. Inside it’s flawlessly stylish, combining achingly chic designer swagger with pitch-perfect lighting, moody granite and dark woods. Immaculate service also lubricates every experience, whether it’s dining on Michelin-starred cuisine or indulging in a treatment in their award-winning spa.

With a revamp approaching half a billion euros, it’s no wonder the Bürgenstock Hotel scores high on wow-factor. First off, however, its setting perched atop the lip of a forested cliff affords gob-smacking panoramas over Lake Lucerne and lush alpine surroundings. The world-beating spa and its infinity-edge pool, which seem to float in the air above it all, are the best spots to soak up the views. Add a raft of top-end dining options and superlative rooms, and you can forgive the eye-watering rates.

This grande-dame hotel is all about lavish old-school glamour, overlooking Lake Léman. From its splendid 19th-century architecture and plushly bedecked interiors, to faultless white-glove service and Michelin-starred dining, the Grand Hotel delivers on its guests’ lofty expectations. Suites dial up the deluxe, with opulence approaching palatial in some of the higher-end options. In the evening, head to the exotic bar to enjoy top-notch cocktails surrounded by similarly dizzying, super-sumptuous interiors.

Recognisable for miles around for its spired turrets, elegant belle époque architecture and striking Norman Foster-designed wings, the Dolder Grand is more than deserving of its uber-glamorous reputation. It once welcomed vintage A-listers like Winston Churchill and Sophia Loren, and it retains much of its illustrious glitz today. Crystal chandeliers, red velvet and classical columns set a tone of refinement, while original works on display by Salvador Dalí and Andy Warhol add artistic caché to the swanky mix.

There’s more than a smidgen of fairytale castle about this five-star palace hotel, especially when the surrounding storybook-quaint village of Gstaad is blanketed in snow. It’s been a magnet for the glamorous global jet set since the 1960s, and much of its timeless ritz remains unsullied by the passing decades. A heated outdoor pool impresses by sheer size, while you might lose yourself in the 1,800sqm (19,375sqft) spa in more ways than one.

While its original 1970s era could hardly be described as wow-inducing, the dozen or so illuminated glass “sails” that sit behind this hotel never fail to impress. They’re part of the extraordinary 5,000sqm (53,820sqft) hotel spa, which is carved into the mountainside and spread over four floors. A series of pools help create a dreamy wellness wonderland, while one level is dedicated just to steam treatments. Plump for a south-facing guest room and you’ll also be treated to spectacular views of the rugged surrounding snow-capped peaks.

Riffelhaus 1853, one of the oldest hotels in Zermatt, offers spectacular views of the Matterhorn — should you choose the right room. This ski-in, ski-out hotel, situated at 2,500m (8,202ft), specialises in quality Swiss fare. Restaurant Riffelhaus prepares cheese fondue, naturally, plus heaps of rösti (a hearty fritter-style dish). Fill your belly after a day on the slopes, then hit the spa, where you can soak in the open-air heated whirlpool with the Matterhorn in the near distance.

In St Moritz, winter sports come with the freeze. When warmer weather melts the ice away, you can sail on the lake. Badrutt’s Palace, a ritzy 157-room hotel, is gothic in character, with green-tiled rooftops and pointy towers. This castle-like landmark is an exceedingly classy place to stay – choose a room with a lake view. Make sure you bring formalwear, which is required for dinner, but not breakfast, at the property’s restaurants. The spa, carved out of solid rock in the basement, features an indoor pool – plus a heated outdoor pool – with floor-to-ceiling windows, overlooking the natural backdrop outside.

If staying in Zurich and you’re after a unique hotel experience, look no further than the Kameha Grand, named after a Hawaiian king. The flashy interiors come from the creative mind of Dutch designer Marcel Wanders. The ridiculously oversized golden cowbells in the main lobby are of particular note. Door handles look like security vault handles, while doors resemble giant chocolate bars. The 245 rooms all strive to create a unique theme as far as decor goes, as do the artfully themed suites – Diva, Burlesque, Poker Face and more. Swing by the smoking lounge with fine cigars and whisky on hand, if that’s your scene.

Vals, an Alps-surrounded valley and a haven for hot spring enthusiasts, is home to 7132 Hotel, named for the area’s postal code. Visitors flock here to soak in the sleek, mineral-dense thermal baths, featuring local quartzite rock. Beyond, the surrounding oak trees give this hotel a contemporary, homely feel. If you number among the jet set, this design hotel has its very own helicopter landing point. Why drive when you can fly?