Actress Julie Andrews may have been on to something when she referred to the Alpine Swiss ski resort village of Gstaad as “the last paradise in a crazy world.” The family-owned Le Grande Bellevue may be the oldest palace hotel in town, but the newly-designed interior has been injected with a vibrant, modern-day flair—from the giant, hanging birdcage seats and life-size camel in the lobby to the snowflake chandeliers, it’s immediately evident that this is not your average luxury hotel. And no matter what the season, Le Grand Bellevue is positioned in the perfect location to explore the city centre or hit the slopes.
Who For
Snowflake Chandeliers (c) Edward Young
This hotel is ideal for both the over-worked looking for a luxury summer wellness retreat or the winter warrior ready to pound the powder. It’s family friendly with a large family play room and Le Grand Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a long day. When the temperature drops, during the winter months, guests can heat up at the hotel’s night club or relax in the cigar lounge.
Accommodation
Suite Etoile (c) Le Grande Bellevue
There are just 57 rooms, many with balconies and all with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains or the city centre. Ensuite bathrooms have heated towel racks, walk-in showers, and deep-soaking bathtubs and aromatically appealing Bamford bath products.
Facilities
Le Grand Spa (c) Le Grande Bellevue
The 3000m² subterranean Le Grand Spa is a major highlight. When craving fitness, choose between having a swim in the hotel’s indoor pool, yoga, weight training or Pilates. Or indulge in the opulence of one of the 11 treatment rooms or sweat away stress in the interconnecting aromatic saunas, salt rooms and ice caves. Children have access to a number of playrooms, a kids’ club, escorted skiing while restaurants offer high chairs and children’s menus.
Food and Drink
The Bar (c) Le Grand Spa
You can take fine afternoon tea of mini madeleines and macaroons in the sitting room, fondu in a chalet or take a seat at the Sushi Bar or Le Petit Chalet or at the Michelin starred LEONARD’s, which offers bistro style Swiss cuisine. Le Grand Bellevue’s dining options are so varied that you are certain to never eat the same meal twice. And when craving a nightcap, indulge in one of the art deco bar’s signature cocktails, which include options such as chai latte infused vodka and rosemary infused gin and tonic.
What’s Nearby
Lake Lauenen near Gstaad (c) Edward Young
The hotel is located just minutes away from the train station and the designer storefront shops that line Gstaad promenade. But the highlight to any stay at Le Grand Bellevue is its close proximity to the seemingly endless acres of Alpine ski slopes that are accessible for many months throughout the year.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
Room Rates
From €311. Booking.com