Le Grand Bellevue – Spa in Gstaad

“Oh no, I only have the hiking boots with me!”. As soon as I get off the post bus at Gstaad station, this flash of thought flashes through me. Sweaty from the wonderful hike high above Lake Lauenen, I can’t wait to recharge my batteries at Le Grand Bellevue. But yes, Houston we have a problem! In the morning rush I had briefly thought that I should pack shoes for after the hike, but of course I forgot about it 5 seconds later and promptly left the house with a pair of extremely “elegant” hiking boots. Now we are standing in the middle of the Bahnhofstrasse of Gstaad and first have to solve the shoe problem. On a quiet Sunday afternoon, this undertaking turns out to be a challenging task, even in the elegant shopping mile of Gstaad. Well-known fashion stores are lined up next door to each other, but all of them are closed. I’m already getting used to the idea of walking through the hotel with my slippers on as we walk past an open Napapijri shop. The irony is that a week after our Norway adventure, I end up in a Norwegian shop in Gstaad and buy a pair of shoes. Well, the saleswoman was also a little surprised by my determination, but 10 minutes later I leave the store with a pair of totally chic ballerinas. From so much drama within 30 minutes, the friend can only roll his eyes.

It is only a few minutes’ walk from Bahnhofstrasse to Le Grand Bellevue. The traditional hotel is located in an idyllic park in a prime location. Since December 2012, the former grand hotel has been run by Daniel Koetser as co-owner. He has successfully breathed new life into the house with the help of his wife, interior architect and designer Davia Koetser. So successful, in fact, that the 5-star superior hotel was placed on the 2014 Hot List by the renowned Condé Nast Traveller this year.

The driveway, where one antique car pearl follows the other due to a classic car meeting, is reminiscent of the venerable grand hotel. Inside, we are greeted by the doorman and take a seat in the comfortable armchairs. Colourful wallpaper, bright floral bouquets, a fireplace and numerous sofas give the feeling that you have landed directly in the living room of friends. The atmosphere exudes a wonderfully informal cosiness. I wouldn’t have had to worry about the shoes. Guests in hiking outfits are also welcome here. Check-in is completely electronic. On request, it can also be done in the room.

We are surprised with a spacious tower suite, where the chilled champagne is already waiting for us. The suite convinces with subtle colours and the use of natural materials. Fine accents were skilfully set with the use of different patterns. Only the walls seem a bit bare, but since the rooms were only renovated last winter season, you want to take your time here. I am convinced that in the course of time a finely thought-out art concept will be implemented.

We enjoy a refreshing shower and toast to a nice evening with champagne.

For dinner, we walk past the huge Leonhard, the life-size tweed dromedary forms the entrance gate to the restaurant of the same name, Leonhard’s. Leonhard is also a good example of how teasing mischief runs through the interior design. In the lobby, lounge and bar, there are countless fun details to discover. The showpiece is, of course, the Chesterfield sofa, which occupies the entire long side of the bar. The lamps are adorned with pineapple, which can also be found as a room key ring.

We order an Asian salad and a tomato salad for starters (around 22 CHF each). For the main course, I opt for risotto with fresh summer vegetables (30 CHF) and the friend chooses a piece of Simmental roast veal with wild asparagus (44 CHF). The presentation and quality of the dishes can make up for my slight disappointment from the menu. With a restaurant that has been awarded a Michelin star and 14 Gault & Millau points, I would have liked to see a little more creativity. We have to wait a little longer for the culinary final bouquet, a warm chocolate cake (the 20-minute waiting time is specifically indicated on the menu). I can guarantee you, it’s worth every single minute!

The next morning we wake up from the hike with slight muscle soreness. But the view out of the window immediately awakens the wanderlust again. From the room we have an unobstructed view of the sunlit peaks of the Saanenland. We start the day with a hearty breakfast at Leonhard’s. The breakfast concept at Le Grad Bellevue is different from other hotels. The buffet includes a large selection of fresh rolls, fruits, local cheeses, muesli and juices. All other delicacies such as pancakes, French toast, fried eggs or meat can be ordered fresh from the menu.

After breakfast, a particularly relaxing experience awaits me. I get to relax at Le Grand Spa for two hours and recharge my batteries for new adventures. During the Bamford Body Signature Treatment, my cramped muscles are gently loosened and the body’s energy flows are stimulated. Could a Monday morning start more perfectly? It’s going to be hard to top that! Unfortunately, there is not enough time for an extended spa morning, as work is already calling again in the afternoon. But we will definitely stop by Le Grand Bellevue again when we are in Gstaad.

Note: My stay in Gstaad was supported by Le Grand Bellevue. Thank you very much for this! As always, my readers can be sure that I always represent my views and enthusiasm.