Switzerland has a rich heritage and an extensive history of hospitality as home to some of the oldest grand dame hotels in the world. From the bustling city of Zurich to the scenic Alps, travelers will be intrigued to learn the significant history behind some of their favorite luxury hotels.
Grand Resort Bad Ragaz (Bad Ragaz, Switzerland):
Currently celebrating its 150th anniversary with extensive renovations to flagship property, Grand Hotel Quellenhof, Grand Resort Bad Ragaz has been a medical destination for centuries. The thermal healing waters of Tamina Gorge were first discovered in 1242 by huntsmen passing through the region. Since then, this grande dame has earned its title as the leading medical wellness resort with Europe’s first indoor thermal water pool and four luxury hotels on the property.
The Dolder Grand (Zurich, Switzerland):
Celebrating its 120th anniversary, The Dolder Grand has served as a role model of luxury hospitality since its opening in 1899. Undergoing extensive renovations in 1924, 1964 and 2004, the hotel has maintained its reputation as a leading hotel and has had the privileged record of hosting some of history’s greatest: from Winston Churchill to The Rolling Stones (who now have a suite named after them!) and Prince Charles. Today, The Dolder Grand continues to be a leading name in luxury and boasts a Michelin-star dining experience with Chef Heiko Nieder’s The Restaurant and partnerships with brands such as Dr. Burgener Switzerland.
Gstaad Palace (Gstaad, Switzerland):
Located in the Bernese Alps, Gstaad Palace has been an escape for the wealthy since 1913, including international travelers, royals and celebrities, and continues to be one of the last standing family-owned palace hotels in the world. During the war, this Swiss grande dame served as the hiding place for the Swiss Bank Corporation (Union Bank of Switzerland today), and the current fondue restaurant, La Fromagerie, was used as the bank’s private vault for safekeeping. Ernst Andrea Scherz took over the family business in 1968 and led the hotel through the ’90s. In 1996, Andrea Scherz took over and was recently appointed General Manager in 2001.
