Swiss Alps — Boutique Hotels & Travel Guide

Zermatt is car-free, photogenic, and set beneath one of the most recognisable mountains on earth. The skiing is extensive and the summer hiking exceptional. Verbier is for those who ski hard and party accordingly. Gstaad offers the Swiss Alps at their most discreet and expensive. Saas-Fee and Andermatt are for those who want world-class terrain without the crowds — and prices that reflect a Switzerland that still has some perspective.

In Zermatt, beyond the obvious Matterhorn views, consider an early morning ascent to the Rothorn Paradise at 3,103 meters. Accessible by funicular and cable car, the sunrise light painting the east face of the Matterhorn is a profound experience. For dining, a more intimate evening at Schäferstube, known for its lamb specialties, offers a distinct contrast to larger hotel restaurants. For a taste of history, the Matterhorn Museum provides excellent context on the region's mountaineering heritage.

In Verbier, after a day on the slopes, the 'W' hotel's Arctic Juice & Café offers excellent post-ski refreshments. For dinner, Le Grange is a long-standing institution for traditional Swiss fare. In summer, the hike to the Cabane Mont Fort (2,757 meters) offers panoramic views of the Grand Combin and Mont Blanc massif, and a hearty Rosti.

St. Moritz is not just about skiing. Take a leisurely walk around Lake St. Moritz, particularly in early winter when the ice is forming, or watch the White Turf horse races on the frozen lake in February. The Engadin Museum, housed in a magnificent historic building, offers insights into local culture and history. For a culinary treat, the gourmet festival in January draws renowned chefs.

Near Gstaad, the experience of visiting a local cheese cellar, like the one in Gstaad itself, offers a tangible connection to Swiss agricultural traditions. The Glacier 3000 peak walk provides a more adventurous, high-altitude experience with a suspension bridge connecting two peaks. For a memorable meal, the Restaurant Sommet at The Alpina Gstaad consistently delivers refined cuisine.

Andermatt's transformation means new experiences are continually emerging. The Chedi Andermatt's Japanese restaurant offers a sophisticated dining option, while the ski area itself, now connected to Sedrun, provides extensive terrain. The Gotthard Pass, a historic route, is a spectacular drive or cycle in summer.

Crans-Montana offers the opportunity to play golf at the Severiano Ballesteros Golf Course, even in summer, with vistas of the Valais Alps. The Cry d'Er Club d'Altitude, at 2,200 meters, offers music and drinks with sweeping views.

In Saas-Fee, the Metro Alpin, the highest underground funicular in the world, takes you to the Mittelallalin revolving restaurant at 3,500 meters, offering 360-degree views of glaciers and peaks. The Gorge Alpine, a via ferrata that traverses a gorge between Saas-Fee and Saas-Grund, provides an exhilarating summer adventure.