Published by Neil Thompson2020 has been just one big blur of challenges, inconveniences and frustrations. The feeling of being locked in, stopped in our tracks, just altogether like the entire world has come to a monumental halt has not been great for our morale. Switzerland offers beautiful outdoor venues that lift even the most desperate mood, with their fresh Swiss mountain air and stunning views that incorporate the exact opposite of feeling locked, blocked and shocked.
The Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa*****S in the Lake Lucerne area offers everything a deflated mood and strained mind needs: views over Lake Lucerne, the surrounding hills and mountains and the little villages at the lake front, a 9-hole golf course, 70km of hiking trails, tennis courts, the biggest spa in Switzerland with 10’000 sqm and 12 restaurants. For the meeting part of the itinerary, the hotel has a total of 2’200 sqm of meeting facilities and 383 rooms. The stunning property will host the 2021 World Economic Forum in May – definitely a great, big seal of approval!
For something more down to earth, maybe the stylish chalets of the Hôtel Montagne Alternative are an option. In the peaceful hamlet of Commeire, next to Orsières in the canton of Valais in the Swiss mountains, several 100-year-old barns were renovated to host up to 28 guests in single rooms, or up to 44 in twin occupancy. Imagine a remote mountain village, away from the city noise, pollution and stress, and dive into a landscape that could be taken out of a Switzerland picture book.
Is that even a bit too remote? Then let’s have a look at the traditional Kulm Hotel St. Moritz*****S in the mountainous region of Engadin in the South East of the country. St. Moritz is well-known as an exclusive mountain resort for high-end groups and countless gourmet restaurants that are on a par with establishments in big cities. This is not all the region has to offer though. A short ride away from the village and you find yourself in a serene and pristine Alpine landscape.
At 1’920 m.a.s.l., Melchsee-Frutt is a beautiful, down-to-earth lakeside (yes, lakeside) destination that’s not missing the classic mountain feel. The Hotel frutt Lodge & Spa****S is a ski-in ski-out property in winter and the best starting point for outdoor activities such as mountain biking and hiking in summer. Its 114 rooms are the perfect mix between Alpine chic and modern luxury. With one hour from Lucerne in Central Switzerland, there is also always the option of strolling through the old town of Lucerne.
These and many more properties can be explored here and on mySwitzerland.com/meetings.
For more information and guidance, get in touch with Bettina Mumenthaler, Head of Switzerland Convention & Incentive Bureau UK/Ireland on bettina.mumenthaler@switzerland.com or +44 20 7845 7686.
