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To be honest, Switzerland was never on my must-visit list. But things changed when I was approached with the opportunity to travel to Zurich and St. Moritz. The breathtaking photos sold me (that, and the fact that Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn vacationed at the hotel I stayed in). Now, I’ve discovered a place that looks like it’s straight out of a picture book. Panoramic alpine views! Ornate rooms with charming details! Personal butlers at your bidding! All this to say, Badrutt Palace Hotel made me feel like royalty.
Badrutt’s is where you go when you want to see fabulousness and to be seen. There’s history, too. I spent four days in the Alps so I could come here and spill the tea on this glamorous vacation spot. I also stayed a night at a luxurious property in Zurich called Baur Au Lac, before my train ride to St. Moritz, and both locations will leave you inspired to drop the link in your GC, grab your suitcase, and just go.
THE QUICK HITS: BADRUTT’S PALACE HOTEL EDITION
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Name: Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
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Location: St. Moritz, Switzerland
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Cost Per Night: Starting at $888 per night in summer and $1400 per night in winter
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Best For: Luxurious family vacations, bougie travelers, girl trips, and people who ski (or like to watch)
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While You’re Here, Visit: Stroll Via Serlas, the world’s shortest, highest luxury retail street in the world to see exclusive items by Louis Vuitton, DIOR, and Gucci, among others.
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One-Word Vibe Check: Opulent
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Most Iconic Photo Spot: Le Grand Hall
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Don’t Leave Without: Treating yourself to an indulgent spa experience at the Palace Wellness Spa, followed by a scenic lunch in the garden at La Diala—such stunning, panoramic views of Lake St. Moritz and the mountains there!!! Oh, you also must check out Paradiso. When you go, you’ll know why I said so!
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FIRST IMPRESSIONS
All I have to say is: this spot knows how to impress its guests. I was picked up from the train station in a vintage Rolls-Royce once graced by the late Queen of England.
When I arrived at the hotel, stepping out onto the premises made me feel like I was living in some fantasy land. The vibe is exclusive and posh (think high, wooden ceilings, and plush red furniture), making check-in a breeze. The service from day one and onward was immaculate—the motto is: “At Baddrutt’s, anything is possible.” They told us the wildest stories of the great lengths they’ve taken to make the wishes of their guests their very command—that’s what you call top-tier service!
A whole new world. Courtesy of Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien
THE ROOMS
Intimacy! Luxury! Charm! That’s the vibe you’ll find in the 155 guestrooms (including 43 suites) at Badrutt’s. My suite looked like the absolute coolest royal family member had recently furnished and designed the space—it was elevated and homey in the best way. (Fun fact: There was also a room called “The Hitchcock” where Alfred Hitchcock stayed and worked.)
I got a sneak peek of the Serlas Wing, the hotel’s contemporary expansion (which includes 25 modern luxury guest rooms and suites) with major Italian architect Antonio Citterio. The model room I experienced was stunning—the elegant designs have a Swiss influence, and I’m obsessed with the deeply carved-in windows and bronze touches! My favorite part about staying at Badrutt’s is how guests can access an exclusive underground route to the shopping center of St. Moritz (hello, Cartier)!
THE AMENITIES
Besides the secret passageway to designer stores, you also get a personal butler at Badrutt’s. The hotel also has an elite, 24-hour gym that gives away free headphones (I was grateful for this, since I forgot mine back at home). You can use their dry-cleaning service (someone kindly steamed my very wrinkled dress while I was away at brunch), indulge at the relaxing Palace Wellness Spa, and take a dip in their out-of-this-world pool (or take pics at the pool deck like me). Since I visited during the summer, I got to experience the body massage stations and a bubble bench (yes, it’s as good as it sounds). There are also tons of summer and winter activities like sailing, swimming, skiing, ice skating, ski classes, horseback riding, e-biking with a picnic, and so much more. You’ll find a hairdresser (the salon is fab), a barbershop, and a yoga room, too. Oh, and of course, there’s free wifi.
THE FOOD AND BEV
Let me tell you: Badrutt’s can and will convert you into a cheese-lover. To be fair, that is what Switzerland is known for. The hotel has 11 restaurants, two bars, and one nightclub, and the gourmet experiences feel endless! Into wine? How about an on-property tasting at the distinguished wine cellar with over 30,000 iconic bottles?!
Or, an intimate chef’s table brunch or dinner?
No matter your choice, you must head out for a mountainside lunch at Paradiso with access to the members-only Gucci lounge. I had no time to do room service, but it is an option!
THE BOTTOM LINE
You should add this to your must-visit list ASAP. Now, I know first-hand that this is the place I need to go if I don’t want to lift a finger. The Badrutt’s is a bit pricey, but a quick stay will do you good as you explore Switzerland. I especially loved the family-like atmosphere, and was told about how they go all out for Christmas decor. The holidays are coming up, and spending them at the Badrutt’s sounds like a dream to me.
(FYI: The writer received comped accommodations, meals, and spa experiences during this getaway.)
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