Gstaad

Switzerland, a country I have been visiting for 20 years, has some of the best skiing in the world. As someone whose ski addiction has taken me to the world’s best lodges and resorts, I can say there’s no place like the Swiss Alps! St. Moritz and Zermatt were my usual frequent destinations, but not this time–hello, Gstaad! Why it took me so long to get here beats me, but I will be coming back! Diamonds, furs, Michelin-star restaurants: Gstaad is luxury at its finest. But do not confuse the opulence for stuffiness, as this town is anything but.

The Alpina

Whether it’s for a day off the slopes or for après ski, I love to relax my sore muscles in a luxurious lounge with a few cocktails for warmth. I wanted to share four of my favorite places to lounge and enjoy a cocktail in Gstaad, and maybe one day you’ll pass through the Swiss Alps and visit Gstaad also, as I promise it is a premier destination if you enjoy views, luxury, and gastronomic enjoyment.

Le Grand Bellevue

What an evening! Grand Opening night to start the Winter season, and I was there. As luck would have it, the hotel was hosting an open house at Le Grand Spa with free massages and manicures, food, and drinks, and I was treated to a first-class tour. Then across from the spa is their opulent club, Bouquet, with incredible mixologists bringing you back to the era of prohibition. This is THE place to be for late-night bubbles and booze. I enjoyed my libations in the main bar, buzzing away with laughter and cocktails. Off the bar on the patio, they had a special gathering with hot beverages for the lighting of the Christmas tree, which was a treat to be part of. Top-notch staff and warm, inviting surroundings make this place THE place in Gstaad.

Le Grand Bellevue

Alpina Gstaad

No regrets that I decided not to ski that day. A live piano player and singer beautifully singing Christmas tunes, luxurious couches and chairs, mountain views for miles, oh, and of course, Champagne!  Up the grandiose stairs are the main lounge, which is spacious and majestic, yet cozy and charming. I, of course, chose a nook near the bar and the view in which I spent hours with my suspense novel, champagne, wine, espresso, and snacks. Make sure to stroll through the Cigar Lounge and Humidor, which has amazing views, especially if you are a true cigar connoisseur. Throughout the hotel, I was greeted by an incredible staff who kept me laughing and enjoying an afternoon of lounging and relaxation with great champagne, and I look forward to such luxury again soon!

The Alpina

Duchessa by George Blanc

Ultima Gstaad

I almost passed it as I was walking through the main thruway on the outskirts of town. This boutique hotel is understated and private with extreme elegance and discreet luxury. It resembles a petite chalet and illuminates high-end luxury, and the lounge which I enjoyed was no exception. Even though the hotel only boasts 11 suites and 6 residences, I was welcomed and escorted to view the premises, and the exclusiveness felt like I just stepped off my private jet into my personal chalet.  The round bar and lounge were inviting to the “outside” guests, and if you’re looking for a romantic dinner with world-class wine and champagne, Duchessa by Georges Blanc is the place to go for a gourmet culinary voyage.

The Palace

The Palace

Day or night, this 100-year-old glamorous luxury hotel is a diamond shining bright perched high above Gstaad with views for miles. Grandiose doesn’t begin to describe how luxurious and lavish this iconic hotel is, and I enjoyed relaxing in the luxury of the lobby bar and visiting the elegant smoking lounge. Just imagine Louis Armstrong playing in the background as you sip a rare cognac and melt into the deep couches and spectacular views. At night you can see the lights shining bright from the village, sparkling and glistening from the snow resting on its peaks. A picturesque stop and a must-visit when in Gstaad.

Even though two of the four have views from above the village, they are equal in extravagance, comfort, luxury, and warmth. Do not miss a stroll through any of these classical, timeless, opulent hotels. From the moment I arrived, I relaxed in each lounge and felt no pressure to do anything except to slow down. I love the motto of Gstaad: “Ski up and slow down.” A first-class ski destination that rivals any other throughout the world and a must-visit when in Switzerland, any time of year.