THE ALLURE of Badrutt’s Palace is like no other. It’s a luxury hotel that attracts those seeking a taste of old-school luxury; think cigars, cognac and champagne. St Moritz is known as the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism. Its surrounding slopes draw in a fashionable ski crowd, who are of course kitted out in the most stylish gear.
Glitz and glamour are an integral part of the infrastructure of St Moritz. It isn’t subtle, however, it is shamelessly unapologetic. Whilst pulling into Badrutt’s Palace, I was welcomed by a certain Louis (Vuitton, that is) which stood directly opposite the main hotel entrance. After all, you never know when you need a new outfit. Run out of caviar? No problem, there’s a shop that stocks every variation within arms reach.
Doormen in long coats, hats and perfectly polished shoes welcomed me in through the hotel’s revolving doors. Everything was pleasantly symmetrical and Wes Anderson-esque.
The iconic window at Badrutt’s Palace
The word ‘Palace’ is accurate in every sense. It has high ceilings, marble floors and a grand window that frames the scene of snow-capped mountains. It is a view that has been enjoyed by many, including Audrey Hepburn and Alfred Hitchcock, and never gets old.
As I walked inside, guests enjoyed their afternoon tea with a view, and the sound of clinking china could be heard over the hotel’s pianist.
This gentle buzz continued through the communal areas of the hotel. There are plenty of places to hide out if you want your own space, but nothing quite beats the comfort of your own hotel room.
One of the hotel’s 155 rooms
The hotel boasts 155 rooms, made up of guest rooms, suites and one iconic tower penthouse apartment. I settled into one of the hotel’s 43 suite which was extravagant in every manner. The space was filled with classic furnishings which gave a homely touch, and additions such as the bar, desk space and balcony gave the room a glamorous flare.
When I stepped out onto the balcony, I was met with the view of Lake St. Moritz which was entirely frozen over. In the winter season, it gets its fair share of action, hosting everything from polo to horse racing. It’s a room with a view that never fails to excite.
Morning time at Badrutt’s Palace was an experience like no other. Guests break their fast in Le Restaurant (a grand dining room) accompanied by the sound of a live harpist. The champagne was flowing and there was every breakfast food you could possibly want. I was surprised to see some international breakfast dishes such as idli sambar on offer too, both cooked to perfection.
With six restaurants on-site, the hotel is a foodie paradise. With only two nights in the hotel, I took it upon myself to embark on a food crawl around the hotel, ordering a dish or two at each of the restaurants. Highlights include Japanese-Peruvian fusion at La Coupole – Matsuhisa along with fine dining at Le Relais which offers European classics cooked to perfection.
Despite these prim and proper dining areas, there are some more rugged, lesser-known places to enjoy a nice meal. A secret wine cellar which lies below the hotel is home to an intimate private dining room which boasts a rich Italian menu paired with brilliant wines. There’s also King’s Social House which doubles up as a restaurant and a fully functioning nightclub.
A less exclusive hideout is the Renaissance bar. There’s a selection of classic cocktails along with an extensive list of signature mixes. You’d need at least a week to work through the menu, but if you’re short on time, the staff will find exactly what you want. A drawback for some may be the smoke. Yes, that’s right, smoking is permitted inside. Badrutt’s Palace offers some of the finest cigars in the world, so if you like the sound of that, make the most of it. If not, there are plenty of other spots in the hotel to enjoy a nice tipple.
Paradiso Mountain Club & Restaurant
On my last day, I decided to embark on a snowy hike to Paradiso, a mountain club and restaurant owned by Badrutt’s Palace. What better way to end my stay in St Moritz than indulging in some Champagne and cheese fondue? Not only does it have an exclusive Gucci-furnished lounge, but it also doubles up as a great spot to hang out after a ski session or for some drinks with friends.
At Badrutt’s there is the option to do as little or as much as you want. Many guests visit to experience its world-renowned ski resort, whilst others simply enjoy their time within its grand walls. Either way, you’re guaranteed to find yourself enjoying the many luxuries it offers whilst surrounded by a postcard view.
by Katrina Mirpuri
To find out more about staying at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, visit their website here. Rates start from CHF 508 during the Summer season and CHF 850 in the Winter.