Glass takes a trip to Gstaad Palace to experience Alpine magic on an epic scale

STANDING on a lofty hilltop bounded by the Bernese Highlands, Gstaad Palace has been a majestic landmark in the scenic Swiss chalet village since 1913. Its prime position and fairytale good looks, supplemented by an unwavering plushness, have allowed the family-owned property to take centre stage for over a hundred years. The secret, though, to this three-generation success lies in the ease with which it delivers such sumptousness. To enjoy luxury at this level, it can only be low-key.

Exterior of Gstaad Palace

Discretion has always been at the heart of the Palace’s illustrious history. Hollywood started flocking to the alpine retreat in the 1960s, and the present-day guestbook is as likely to feature big-name politicos as it is pop stars. The hotel was even used as a film set in the early ‘70s, and its GreenGo night club, which still boasts the stunning orange furnishings it debuted nearly fifty years ago, remains an exclusive, if bustling, haven. 

Gstaad Palace, Lobby Bar

Exterior of Gstaad Palace 

Although guests to the property will likely be hitting Gstaad’s famous slopes, the Palace’s gorgeous interiors will make you think twice about those ski plans. The Lobby Bar is at the centre of in-house activities, providing a welcoming all-day space to relax. A sprawling red-hued room, it generates a cozy ambiance through intimate seating arrangements and evenings filled with live music. 

Gstaad Palace, Spa Lounge

Gstaad Palace, Deluxe Suite Room

Other than its celebrated Gault Millau-awarded restaurant, Le Grill – one of many dining options – the hotel’s most lavish offering may be its mammoth spa. Flaunting an abundance of facilities, including a seven-room hammam experience, the central relaxation lounge with its 60-metre-long stone wall and open fireplace is alone worth a visit. The alluring alpine decor continues to unravel across the 90 guest rooms and suites, which perfectly embody country-cottage glamour through wood-panelled walls and elegant cheque prints. Unnecessary technological touches won’t bother you here; on the contrary, enjoy using a hefty key to lock your room – how’s that for novelty.

Add sincere, unobtrusive staff to the mix, plus exquisite mountain views, and you can see why the Gstaad Palace formula continues to work like a dream.

by Derby Jones

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