Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad

Originally written for Town & Country UK.

There is a certain glamour that comes with holidaying in Gtsaad. Picture perfect mountains and prestigious international schools have long attracted royals and celebrities alike. In the winter it is custom to ski but in the summer, one must spa. Unlike many of its neighbouring Swiss alpine resorts, Gstaad prides itself not on its competitive slopes but in the gift of relaxation. Indeed, the village slogan reads ‘come up, slow down’ and when it comes to slowing down there is no better place to do it than Le Grand Bellevue Gtsaad.

 Home to one of the finest spas in Europe, Le Grand Spa offers 3,000 square metres of wellness luxury. Indulge in the Turkish steam bath, infrared, herbal and hay saunas and revitalising ice shower as you work your way through the seventeen different zones of the Thermal Oasis. Favourites include the authentic Finnish Sauna built from rich local pine and the Himalayan salt room; a gently heated shimmering pink chamber which circulates finely dissolved Himalayan salt to cleanse and calm.

Rooms at Le Grand Bellevue are sophisticated and chic with neutral tones and plush double beds. Even the most modest rooms in the hotel are generously sized, offering forest views, pillow menus and Bamford bath products. The complimentary mini bar is replenished daily and the evening turndown service is complete with a sweet surprise. If a suite is your preference, choose between seven, the most outstanding being Suite Le Grand Bellevue. Spread over two floors, it is a dazzling display of alpine luxury and includes a private jacuzzi and flawlessly designed dressing, living and dining rooms.  

Whatever your taste, you will be well fed at Le Grand Bellevue. Enjoy elegant international cuisine at Leonards, traditional Swiss fondue at Le Petit Chalet or sample chef Robert Speth’s Michelin starred menu at The Chesery. If you prefer something more low key, order a selection of sushi from the resident sushi chef or take your supper at the handsome hotel bar which also boasts the longest Chesterfield sofa on record – thirteen metres long (made by George Smith). Enjoy dishes such as house made sweet potato crisps with avocado; miso black cod or truffle ravioli in sage and pine nut butter. End the evening with a cocktail made by the hotel’s expert mixologist and perhaps retire to the cigar room or private cinema.

Perfectly positioned Le Grand Bellevue is but a few steps away from the famously stylish promenade. This is haute couture at high altitude with boutiques including Hermes, Prada, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton. You’ll also find a Porsche showroom offering a personal rental service should you wish to take a spin during your stay.

Find out more about Le Grand Bellevue Gstaad here.