Why This Swiss Ski Resort Should Be Your Next Weekend Break

The Chedi Andermatt, nestled in the heart of Switzerland, is one of them. Skiing enthusiast or otherwise we defy you not to be as enchanted with this unique hotel as we were – here’s why our Founder & Editor will most definitely be going back…

It’s under an hour and a half by car from Zurich airport… Or a picturesque train journey through the Swiss mountains. Andermatt is one of a select group of resorts doable for just a weekend away – so select a resort, that National Geographic ranked it in its top 15.

The village itself is both idyllic and down to earth… And not what you might expect as the home of such a prestigious hotel. The Chedi itself marries Alpine charm and Asian zen with aplomb. Picture dark wood and low lighting combined with comfortable day beds set in front of endless fireplaces and panoramic windows looking out onto the mountains.

The hotel achieves the kind of attention to detail Asian hotels are famed for… Everything from animated ski butlers to walk you through piste conditions via their numerous web cams, a Wine Library for those with the means and bedrooms nothing short of sanctuaries in which to slumber and sleep like a baby.

Skiing holidays are notoriously exhausting, but not here… Chedi Andermatt proves you can come back from a skiing holiday feeling revived. Not big on your skiing but your family are? This is the kind of hotel where you can while away hours without feeling like you’re missing all the fun. Either way, it’s a haven for the most discerning of spa enthusiasts, with a first-class gym, spa suites, hydrothermal pools, a heated outdoor pool and a stunning 35-metre indoor pool where you can lie and relax in front of a fire.

There’s truly something for everyone… An alternative end to the day might involve tobogganing (their toboggans are the smartest we’ve encountered) or ice skating on the hotel ice rink with a mulled wine and grilled chestnuts. And if that’s not your thing either, then indulge in a few cocktails at its lively bar. 

Hungry skiers will not be short of options... The main restaurant does a breakfast of champions, and for dinner offers guests elegant Western or Asian cuisine. Its jewel in the crown is the glass encased cheese room which has to be seen to be believed. There’s also an intimate Japanese restaurant and a Chalet pop-up offering hearty classics (that’s raclette and fondue) in cosy, rustic surroundings. Plus, the lounge and bar menus offer really good all-day options, and if you’re famished after skiing, then the sushi station is a nice touch to fill a spot.

As for the skiing, it’s varied and refreshingly lacking in queues… It’s also equipped with new and efficient lifts and is, above all, picturesque. The ski area isn’t vast, but work is soon to be completed to connect the resort with a neighbouring valley; creating a substantial ski area for adventurous on and off-piste skiers.

One could go on but you get the picture… This is one of those hotels you really ought to give a go.

The Chedi is also a popular summer wellness destination and is open year-round. For more information visit TheChediAndermatt.com