Forget everything you thought you knew about hotels. Switzerland, which is known as the land of chocolate, cheese, and watches, is about to blow your mind with accommodations that defy logic and gravity.
From sleeping under the stars (literally) to bunking in an igloo, these 14 hotels are so surreal that you’ll be pinching yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming.
Buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of Switzerland’s most jaw-dropping, eye-popping, and utterly unbelievable places to rest your head. Warning: Your idea of a ‘normal’ hotel will never be the same again!
Table of Contents
7. Igloo-Village Zermatt
For a truly unique experience, guests can sleep in a real igloo at the foot of the Matterhorn. The igloo village includes a bar and restaurant made entirely of ice. For the ultimate romantic getaway, book the igloo suite with a private hot tub.
2. Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel
Nestled in the Alps, this hotel is made of stand-alone geodesic dome pods heated by wood-burning stoves. Which are super handy if you come in winter!
Each pod offers a unique blend of luxury and eco-friendly practices. Guests can ski right from their pod’s doorstep, immersing themselves in nature or just go for a walk in the nearby winter-wonderland.
3. Berggasthaus Aescher-Wildkirchli
Made famous by its inclusion in National Geographic a few years ago, this Swiss alpine hut is a stunning place to visit on any Swiss trip.
Built into the side of a cliff, this 170-year-old guesthouse is a testament to Swiss ingenuity. It’s accessible only on foot, or by cable car and a short hike, offering a truly secluded experience. The lack of running water and electricity adds to its rustic charm.
You can just stop here for a drink or bite to eat, if it’s not busy in summer, or you can book a night here for an unforgettable adventure.
4. Berghotel Muottas Muragl
Perched at 2,456 meters above sea level, this Berghotel has some of the most panoramic views of the Engadin Valley that will take your breath away. Not only that, but is powered entirely by renewable energy and is accessible only by funicular railway, adding to its exclusive charm.
5. Château Gütsch
This fairy-tale castle hotel overlooks the city of Lucerne, blending medieval architecture with modern luxury. Originally built in the 19th century, it now features rooms with unique, whimsical designs. Its position high above the city provides guests with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
And even if you don’t stay here, you can pop up on the funicular or do a short hike up the mountain for spectacular Lucerne views.
6. Hotel Villa Honegg
Famous for its infinity pool with breathtaking views of Lake Lucerne, Hotel Villa Honegg sits atop Mount Bürgenstock. This Art Nouveau building from 1905 has been transformed into an exclusive boutique hotel. And with only 23 rooms, it offers an intimate and luxurious experience.
7. Null Stern Hotel (Zero Star Hotel)
This unconventional hotel offered only a bed under the open sky in the Swiss Alps. Unfortunately, it is no longer in operation, but we can still marvel at the idea.
With no walls or roof, guests enjoyed unobstructed views of the starry night sky. A personal butler ensured everything they needed in this minimalist yet luxurious outdoor experience.
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8. Cabane de Moiry
Perched on a glacier at 2,825 meters altitude, this mountain cabin offers floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the glacier only meters away and the surrounding Alps. I walked here over a decade ago (image above), and it is still fresh in my memory today.
It’s accessible only by hiking, adding to its remote allure. Despite its isolated location, it offers modern amenities to its adventurous guests.
9. Hôtel Palafitte
As the only hotel in Europe built on stilts over a lake, Hôtel Palafitte offers a unique experience. With private terraces that come with ladders leading directly into Lake Neuchâtel, this luxurious overwater bungalow is Switzerland’s own Maldives without having to fly!
10. Albergo Corippo Diffuso
This hotel is actually an entire village turned into accommodations. Corippo, the smallest municipality in Switzerland, has been transformed into a scattered hotel concept.
Guests stay in different restored stone houses throughout the tiny village. This innovative project aims to preserve the historic town while offering a unique experience.
11. The Cambrian
The Cambrian in Adelboden is all about the infinity pool. And with views like the one above, how can you complain!
The pool seems to merge with the surrounding mountains, and the hotel’s sleek, modern design contrasts the traditional Alpine scenery. The hotel also features a spa with stunning mountain views.
If you want to spoil yourself in Switzerland, this is one of the best spots to come!
12. Riffelhaus 1853
As one of the first mountain hotels in the Alps, Riffelhaus 1853 sits at 2,500 meters with unobstructed views of the Matterhorn. It’s reached by Europe’s highest open-air cog railway, adding to the adventure.
So, if you are heading to Zermatt on your vacation, why not spend a night high above the town with unrestricted views of Switzerland’s most famous mountain!
13. La Claustra
This former Swiss army bunker has been transformed into a luxury hotel built inside a mountain. With no windows and completely underground, it offers a truly unique lodging experience. Despite its unusual location, La Claustra includes amenities like a spa, library, and wine cellar.
14. The Chedi Andermatt
The Chedi Andermatt masterfully blends Asian and Alpine aesthetics for a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. It features a 35-meter indoor pool with views of the Alps and a cheese cellar with over 40 local varieties. For skiers, the hotel offers a convenient ski butler service.
