Why Switzerland as a Luxury Destination is a Class Apart

When it comes to luxury experiences, Switzerland is consistently ranked among the top countries. Since the 18th century, the European nation has become the preferred holiday destination for the crème de la crème of the world due to the picturesque landscapes that continue to provide respite to weary souls. The pristine lakes and snow-capped Alps are considered therapeutic and healing. Switzerland is also renowned for its engineering know-how, which has positioned the country as a pioneer in developing groundbreaking transportation systems. Spectacular funiculars and gondolas have given access to Alpine mountaintops, where hospitality and leisure offerings have flourished.

Armed with more than a century of expertise and experience, Switzerland has built its reputation for exceptional service, attention to detail, breathtaking locations, and a deep-rooted tradition of hospitality excellence. Swiss hotels are at the core of this excellence and have shaped luxury hospitality as we know it today. “Swiss hospitality goes hand-in-hand with this sense of precision and reliability. From the high-quality food to the exceptional service, every detail reflects a deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship,” says Chris K. Franzen, Managing Director of the Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne. The Swiss legend César Ritz—widely regarded as the pioneer of luxury hospitality—established principles that continue to define the industry. “Rooted in tradition yet forward-thinking in sustainability, Swiss hospitality offers personalised, high-quality experiences that reflect the country’s commitment to excellence,” adds Paul Jones, General Manager of Mandarin Oriental, Geneva.

Geneva, being one of the gateway cities to Switzerland, has a high density of luxury hotels. The Mandarin Oriental Geneva’s biggest advantage is its location with the façade overlooking the Rhône river and the city’s main attractions such as the Lake, Jet D’eau and St. Peter’s Cathedral, at a walking distance. The 178 rooms are well-appointed with state-of-the-art amenities that bring modern aesthetic sensibilities with impeccable subtlety. The hotel’s outstanding and renowned restaurants and vibrant bar have made a significant contribution to Geneva’s dining scene, while visitors can rejuvenate and unwind with Swiss expertise at the hotel’s wellness facilities.

Another unique hotel offering is The Woodward, Geneva. The suites-only hotel has 26 units, each of them designed with meticulous care by Pierre-Yves Rochon, in a post-Haussmann building. The Three-Michelin Key property is part of the Auberge Resort Collection and boasts epicurean hotspots with three gourmet restaurants, including Geneva’s only two-Michelin-star L’Atelier Robuchon, Le Jardinier and Bar 37.

Apart from the three Mandarin Oriental hotels in Switzerland, Badrutt’s Palace in St Moritz, The Chedi Andermatt and Beau-Rivage Palace in Lausanne are just some of the iconic properties that Switzerland boasts of. “The dedication to excellence and cultural richness and diversity adds great value to Swiss hospitality,” says Christian Wildhaber, GM, Mandarin Oriental Lucerne. What makes these properties a must-visit for travellers, apart from their location, is the personalised service and meticulous attention to detail provided in a safe and secure environment.

The Lucerne property of Mandarin Oriental is the historic Palace Hotel, built in 1906, overlooking the magnificent expanse of Lake Lucerne, by Swiss entrepreneur Franz Josef Bucher who wanted to bring a piece of the Mediterranean to the city. The Belle Epoque icon of Lucerne underwent significant restoration before it opened its doors as the Mandarin Oriental in 2022. There are 136 guestrooms, including 45 of the city’s largest suites, two Panoramic Rooftop Terrace Suites with magnificent 360-degree lake and mountain views, as well as the luxurious Presidential Suite.

Across Lake Lucerne is Bürgenstock Resort Lake, which combines discreet luxury with immersive, personalised experiences. There are three individual hotels as part of the resort—Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa, Waldhotel by Bürgenstock and Taverne 1979—that have a combined capacity of 360 rooms and suites. The mountaintop resort is spread over 60 hectares and includes one of Europe’s largest hotel spas to over 100 curated activities for wellness lovers, adventurers, and food enthusiasts, including a nine-hole golf course, three tennis courts and plentiful hiking and trekking trails.

For travellers in search of a truly luxurious experience, Swiss hospitality is a must. The country and its hospitality sector have set benchmarks for impeccable service and efficiency, along with a blend of tradition and modern luxury. Whether it’s staying in a luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps, enjoying a train journey through stunning landscapes, or indulging in authentic Swiss gastronomy, the country’s commitment to excellence is unmatched.