The most beautiful lakeside hotels in Switzerland

A moment that immediately puts me in a holiday mood is when I can gaze over the glittering surface of a Swiss lake in the morning after waking up. Whether it’s Lake Constance, Lake Lucerne, or Lake Thun – Switzerland not only entices with diverse bodies of water but also with beautifully situated hotels, where you can reach the cool water in just a few steps.

On our trips, we have scouted out many lakeside hotels. And we have returned to some more than once. The range extends from simple, yet charming inns to luxurious 5-star resorts with top-notch comfort and service. What unites them is the enviable location directly on the lake and the breathtaking views.

The lengthening and warming days awaken in me a longing for the lake air. Do you feel the same? And are you looking for a beautiful lakeside hotel in Switzerland for a relaxing weekend? Then you’ve come to the right place! In this post, you’ll find a selection of what I consider the most beautiful Swiss hotels with lake access, as inspiration.

Hotel Palafitte on the Shores of Lake Neuchâtel

The Hotel Palafitte in Neuchâtel offers a unique experience with its 24 lake pavilions standing on stilts over the water of Lake Neuchâtel. The architecture, inspired by stilt houses, allows you to dip your toes in the lake as soon as you arrive. Another standout feature is the unobstructed view over Lake Neuchâtel to the snow-capped Alpine chain. On sunny summer days, you can explore the lake from the hotel using stand-up paddleboards or kayaks. And with the nearby charming old town of Neuchâtel, there’s plenty to discover even in bad weather.

For romantic couple time, a Maldives-like feeling, or relaxed me-time, prices (from CHF 343) and availability for Hotel Palafitte can be found here (partner link). Tip: In the off-season, a stay at Palafitte is much more affordable than in the high summer.

 

Hotel Eden Roc on the Shores of Lake Maggiore

The Hotel Eden Roc in Ascona, located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, entices with a palm-lined private beach, expansive garden, and 5-star comfort. Here, you get the feeling of a beach vacation without long travel times. With so much space and four in-house restaurants, one might wonder if it’s even necessary to leave Eden Roc during the stay. If you do feel the need, the hotel’s prime location offers numerous opportunities. The picturesque promenade of Ascona is right next to Eden Roc. From here, you can take a boat trip to the Brissago Islands or walk towards Monte Verità.

For extended dolce far niente and pure vacation feeling. Prices (from CHF 450) and availability for Hotel Eden Roc can be found here (partner link).

 

Hotel Terrasse am See

Since 1873, Hotel Terrasse am See in Vitznau has captivated guests from all over the world with its fantastic location. In recent times, the hotel has also established itself as a stopover for cycling tourists. With a special cycling package created in collaboration with other Swiss Historic Hotels, the beautiful landscape around Lake Lucerne can be explored on two wheels. Those who prefer a more relaxed approach can simply unwind and enjoy the stunning view after checking in. Alternatively, the valley station of the Rigi Railway and the boat dock are located right next to the hotel.

For nostalgists, cyclists, and Rigi climbers. Prices (from CHF 170) and availability for Hotel Terrasse am See can be found here (partner link).

 

Schloss Schadau on Lake Thun

Schloss Schadau, located in the Schadau Park in Thun, inspired by English landscape gardens, is known for its impressive Alpine panorama and fairy-tale appearance. It is considered one of the most significant castle buildings of Romantic Historicism and is a cultural asset of national importance. After various mixed uses, the castle was converted into a hotel from 2017 to 2019. We experienced the casual combination of historical elements and youthful freshness firsthand during a short stay. Within walking distance from Schloss Schadau is the Thun lido – one of the most beautiful lake baths in Switzerland!

For doing nothing in Thun (the very best activity there is!). Prices (from CHF 229) and availability for Hotel Schloss Schadau can be found here (partner link).

 

Leissigen Youth Hostel on Lake Thun

At the Leissigen Youth Hostel on Lake Thun, I have experienced many wonderful moments. Today, the former summer residence of the Ovomaltine inventor is, in my opinion, the most beautiful youth hostel in Switzerland. The main attraction here is a cozy lawn with direct lake access and a small but lovely pebble beach. Truly enviable! The room facilities are simple and there are no private showers/WCs. However, the prime location and spectacular sunsets more than make up for it!

For families, nature lovers, and anyone with the motto “less is more”. Prices (from CHF 117) and availability for Leissigen Youth Hostel can be found here (partner link).

 

Romantik Seehotel Sonne on Lake Zurich

You can also enjoy a stay with direct lake access on Lake Zurich. My tip: The quietly located Romantik Seehotel Sonne, which boasts nearly 400 years of hospitality tradition. I particularly like the successful combination of historical charm and modern comfort. Ten minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Zurich’s Sechseläutenplatz, this place in Küsnacht offers the perfect setting for a short getaway. Now you just have to decide whether to spend your time on the deck chair or under the shade of the trees in the cozy beer garden. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, a small, fine wellness area or Zurich’s diverse cultural offerings beckon.

For connoisseurs and water lovers, prices (from CHF 227) and availability for Romantik Seehotel Sonne can be found here (partner link).

Which lakeside hotels should not be missing from this list? And which is your favorite hotel with direct lake access? Let me know in the comments. You can find even more inspiration for your short getaway in this compilation of the best wellness hotels in Switzerland.